Avian Field Technicians

and needed from approximately April 15 to June 30
2007, to conduct point counts of birds in the northern Chihuahuan Desert,
south central New Mexico. A few of the potentially 140+ species that will be
encountered include Scott's Oriole, Crissal Thrasher, Lesser Nighthawk, and
Cassin's Sparrow. All persons hired will conduct point counts and assist
with collecting data on vegetation structure and composition, using a fairly
quick protocol (e.g., no counting of individual stems). Data will be
collected using PDAs connected to GPS, and rangefinders. Technicians should
have their own binoculars.

Applicants should have taken a college ornithology course. Experience
working in hot rigorous field conditions is a plus. Plant i.d. training
provided. Very well qualified applicants will have conducted point counts
and/or nest searched in the desert southwest previously, but applicants who
are birders without desert experience are encouraged to apply as well.

The study area is McGregor Range of Fort Bliss, located between Alamogordo,
NM and El Paso, TX. Work is up to 7 days/wk, but usually less, beginning at
4 or 5 a.m. and finishing by about 2 pm. Days off are determined by the
military access schedule. The position includes no paid vacation or
benefits. Nearby attractions include the Sacramento Mountains, Sierra
Blanca, (both in Lincoln National Forest), White Sands National Monument,
and the Organ Mountains.
An application letter specifying your available dates, a resume, and phone
numbers and e-mail addresses of three references, should be sent
(electronically is preferable, or via post) to Dr. Anna Pidgeon:
apidgeon@wisc.edu, or 120 Russell Labs, 1630 Linden Drive,Madison,WI 53706.

Salary Range: Technicians$1500-1800/month. Crew Leader: $2000/month.
Housing will be provided. Transportation from Wisconsin or on the route from
WI to NM may be provided.
Application received by February 15 will be given priority consideration.
Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.