Present Position Number

T0254W

Role Code Title

Laboratory & Research Spec I

Position Title

Marsh Bird Lead 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 one crew leader to conduct marshbird point count surveys while supervising 1-5 technicians from April 15-July 31, and subsequently assist with capturing Whimbrel through mid-August on the Eastern Shore of Virginia (ESVA). 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.

Not only should applicants be able to identify marsh obligate bird species by sight and sound, but a successful applicant will be highly organized and possess strong communication and leadership skills. The crew leader will be responsible for maintaining a schedule with their technicians to accomplish the projects goals within a specific timeline. They will independently travel to study sites and navigate challenging marshes to point count locations using GPS. Applicants will need to be physically capable of accomplishing the work and willing to work early mornings. This position also requires experience and comfort with operating a boat and the person must possess a boater safety certification or be able to pass an online course prior to employment. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and will be required to pass a standard background check. 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.

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.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to operate a boat.
Experience coordinating schedules to meet project goals.

Project-specific preferred qualifications:
Experience in coastal marshes.
Experience conducting auditory point counts.
Experience interacting with private landowners.
Experienced with capturing birds.

Required Qualifications

• Secondary level coursework in biology or related field of study, or comparable education or experience.
• Experience with surveying, handling and managing various bird species in the field
• Ability to work long hours outdoors, in hot or cold weather

Preferred Qualifications

• Bird handling experience preferred
• Undergraduate degree in Biology or related field
• Experience working independently on a field research projects
• Experience supervising other fieldworkers
• Familiarity with the geographic research region identified
• Experience with bird surveys both on land and by boat
• Experience with bird surveys in different environments, such as forest, wetlands, grassland, or desert
• Ability to camp independently, if needed

Advertised Pay Range

$18.00/hour

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

10/14/2022

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 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 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 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

Our hourly employees enjoy many university benefits such as, participation in a supplemental savings plan for retirement, professional development, and wellness benefits. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. In addition, after completing a year of continuous hourly service and working at least 1,000 hours during the previous 12 months, hourly employees are eligible for holiday pay, PTO and educational assistance. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/hr/currentemployees/benefits/index.php