What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate position at National Audubon Society, Inc.?
Job Description:
Position Summary
The Research Associate will be responsible for assisting the Wading Bird Research Specialist in field and office activities associated with the current projects being carried out at Everglades Science Center, and reporting to the Centers Senior Biologist. This is a full-time position monitoring primarily Roseate Spoonbill nesting and other wading bird nesting populations in Florida Bay, the submerged portion of Everglades National Park, and the Florida Keys. Scientific responsibilities will primarily consist of the monitoring of Roseate Spoonbill and other wading bird nesting, trail camera deployment, and trapping and banding wading birds.
In addition, the Research Associate will be required to help on the Centers other projects. The Associate will be an established professional contributor, responsible for working independently to achieve operational targets and/or delegated project related work under limited supervision. Additionally, the research associate will also need to work with and maintain physical data. Field data will be collected from, powerboats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and on foot (wading).
The position will start on the first week of January and end last week of May, with potential flexible start and end dates.
Compensation:
$15.00 / hour
Additional Job Description
Essential Functions
Collect data on nesting wading birds, especially Roseate Spoonbills and cataloging data in a database, to be statistically analyzed.
Collect and maintain detailed records and logs.
Participate in group projects to maintain the base facility and improve operations.
Responsible for the maintenance of vehicles and all assigned field gear.
Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (hydrology, wading birds, and fish) of biologists and research associates to meet operational targets of the organization by developing and accessing Everglades restoration projects.
Other job-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field is desirable; or equivalent field experience of a minimum of 1 year experience working in marine, estuarine, or wetlands ecology environments.
Understanding and respect of the scientific method is paramount.
Computer experience and familiarity with spreadsheet and database programs are required.
Strong organizational skills and flexibility in planning.
Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field.
Experience in Florida’s estuaries, mangrove forests and/or coastal wetlands, identification of nesting wading birds is desirable.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other web-based applications.
Meticulous attention to detail with a high level of accuracy and a can-do attitude are essential.
Willingness and ability to work long hours in the field in sub-tropical wetland environments, exposed to the harsh South Florida environment (sun, heat, biting insects, wading in water or mud), sometimes alone. Environment also includes navigating murky waters that serve as the home for potentially dangerous wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, sharks and venomous snakes. Some projects may involve travel in helicopters and small, wing aircraft.
Ability to traverse 3-8 miles a day through varying terrain, ability to climb small trees and balance on branches and roots
Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult terrain with or without accommodation.
Ability to swim and lift 40 lbs with or without accommodation.
Valid Driver’s License required. Must have experience with small boats, and operating vehicles strongly preferred
Ability to operate, maintain and repair mechanical equipment such as trucks and boats
EEO Statement
The National Audubon Society is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination, inclusion and equal opportunity and actively seek a diverse pool of candidates in this search.
Accessibility Statement
The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
Salary : $15
