Location: Throughout New England, ME, NH, VT Duration: 7 May through 31 July 2013
Job Type: Seasonal Application Deadline: 04/21/2013 Job Description: Research assistants (total of 2 positions) are needed for a project with USGS Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Maine to study birds in Spruce-Fir Forests throughout New England and their response to forest management. Description: The selected applicants will conduct point count surveys and forested vegetation surveys. Bird surveys will take place early each morning and data will be entered each evening. Duties also may include territory plotting, behavioral observations, nest searching, and invertebrate sampling. This study will focus primarily on birds in softwood dominated forests, but field research will be conducted in the working forest landscape and include mixed forest stands as well. To Apply: Please send a CV or resume with a cover letter detailing interest in the position, relevant experience, and the contact information for at least 3 references as a single document to the email indicated below. Include in the subject line: “Field technician application”. Early applications are encouraged. Applications will be processed on arrival. Contact: Brian Rolek (EM: brian.ro...@maine.edu) Qualifications: Qualifications: The ability to identify forest birds of New England by both sight and sound is ESSENTIAL. Applicants must have the ability to hear high pitched bird songs/calls, be tolerant of biting insects including black flies and mosquitoes, and be able to work alone and in teams. Experience with multi-species point count surveys for birds, vegetation surveys, data entry in Microsoft Excel and Access, and territory plotting are preferred. Completion of a college degree in biology, wildlife, zoology, or related field also preferred. A valid U.S. driver’s license and a demonstrated record of safe driving (subject to documentation and approval by University of Maine) are required. Safety training requirements including CPR, first aid, driving safety, fieldwork safety, and others will be addressed during the first week of employment. Description: The selected applicants will conduct point count surveys and forested vegetation surveys. Bird surveys will take place early each morning and data will be entered each evening. Duties also may include territory plotting, behavioral observations, nest searching, and invertebrate sampling. This study will focus primarily on birds in softwood dominated forests, but field research will be conducted in the working forest landscape and include mixed forest stands as well. Number of Openings: 2 Research Assistants