Shorebird-Human Disturbance Research Technician (USA)

Location: Various sites on Long Island, NY (June-July) and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, VA (August-September)

Salary: $8/hour. Housing will be provided, but may require camping for part of the summer.

Duration: June 26th through September 5th 2017

Responsibilities: Assist in administering human dimensions surveys to beachgoers during beach outreach events and in pilot testing a method for monitoring human disturbance to shorebirds. Work includes: collecting on-site human observational data, interacting with the public, data entry and database maintenance, and conducting disturbance and trash surveys.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Environmental Conservation, or related field. Applicant must be able to adapt to a flexible work schedule, which will involve working early mornings and weekends. Prefer demonstrated ability to work in field settings and/or inclement weather (including heat, humidity, and direct sun). Must be comfortable approaching and speaking with people. Must have good interpersonal skills and experience interacting with the public. Preferred qualifications include experience using Microsoft Office and Excel and college course-work in human dimensions, environmental interpretation, or the social sciences.

Contact: Please email applications to Lara Mengak at lfmengak@vt.edu. Please include a cover letter explaining your interests and qualifications, resume, and three references (including email addresses and phone numbers).