Present Position Number

T0255W

Role Code Title

Laboratory & Research Tech

Position Title

Marsh Bird Field Technician

Unit Mission Statement

The Center for Conservation Biology (CCB) is a research and education organization at the William & Mary and Virginia Commonwealth University dedicated to bird conservation.The CCB’s mission, through all of its diverse programs, is to provide the global community with the information needed to drive thoughtful, science-based conservation, to educate and train the next generation of conservation scientists, and to make lasting contributions to the natural world through critical thinking, innovation, and ground-breaking research.

Position Summary

The Center for Conservation Biology seeks 4 technicians to conduct saltmarsh sparrow point count surveys from May 01-July 31, 2023. The study area offers the rare opportunity to traverse protected and pristine marshes that have helped the ESVA receive the designation as a globally Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. The study area supports several declining species in Virginia including black rail, saltmarsh sparrow, American black duck, and sedge wren. See eBird hotspot for Saxis WMA for a good idea of species you can anticipate detecting.

In addition to saltmarsh sparrows, applicants should be able to identify other eastern marsh obligate bird species by sight and sound. Candidates should have experience collecting data in the field, maintaining proper field notations, and have experience managing databases.

The technician will be responsible for maintaining a schedule to accomplish the projects goals within a specific timeline. Technicians will independently travel to and within study sites in a vehicle or on a boat with a crew. Must possess the ability to navigate using GPS and through challenging marshes to point count locations. Applicants will need to be physically capable of accomplishing the work and willing to work early mornings. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and will be required to pass a standard background check. Applicants will need to be comfortable riding on a boat. Shared housing on the ESVA will be provided. Field vehicles will also be provided, though the successful applicant can opt to drive a personal vehicle and be reimbursed for mileage at the government rate (0.62$/mile). The technician may also be afforded the opportunity to assist with other research projects throughout the season. Successful applicants will be highly organized and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Many opportunities for leisure activity exist throughout the ESVA. The area is renowned for fishing and the locally harvested seafood. Chincoteague Island NWR is a nearby birding hotspot and world famous for their population of wild ponies. Several historical points of interest can also be found on the shore as some of the earliest American settlements were established here. You may also find time to swim and sunbathe at public beaches.

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Project-specific required qualifications:
Experience identifying eastern birds by sight and sound.
Working independently.
Data entry and management
Ability to physically traverse marshes.

Project-specific preferred qualifications:
Experience in coastal marshes.
Experience conducting auditory point counts
Experience operating a boat.
Experienced with GPS navigation

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Advertised Pay Range

$15.50/hr

Department

359220 CCB Grants & Contracts

Location

William & Mary

Is the position remote work eligible?

Not eligible

Remote Work Disclaimer

Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

Job Open Date

12/01/2022

Review Begin Date

Job Close Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

Employment Category

Hourly - Temporary

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Position Term

Other (Specify Below)

Special Application Instructions

Conditions of Employment

• This position may require driving or riding in a car or boat to access field sites.
• This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime for hours worked beyond 40 in a work week. This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc.
• This position requires driving or riding in cars and boats to field sites.
• The ability to work outdoors daily, and at times, under rigorous conditions
• The ability to perform physically strenuous duties
• The ability to lift/carry 50 pounds
• The ability to occasionally work some weekends, holidays, and irregular hours (depending upon wildlife and weather)
• A valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record
• This position is a temporary (hourly) position not to exceed 6 months. All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed on average 29 hours per week, over the course of a twelve month period beginning May 1 each year.

EEO Statement

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Background Check Statement

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

Benefits Summary Statement

William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/hr/currentemployees/benefits/index.php