SNOWY PLOVER INTERNSHIP

The San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory (SFBBO) is seeking one student intern to assist with Western Snowy Plover field studies. Western Snowy Plovers are federally threatened shorebirds, and in the South San Francisco Bay, they nest primarily on dry, former salt evaporation ponds. The internship will run from March to August 2014 (beginning as early as March 1st but no later than April 1st) and will be based in Milpitas, CA. The intern will work part-time while their university is in session and full-time during the summer months. The intern will receive training and mentorship from SFBBO staff and will develop their skills in waterbird survey and nest-monitoring techniques, data management and bird identification.

Key Responsibilities:
Survey plover nesting areas using spotting scopes and binoculars
Re-sight color band combinations
Conduct avian predator surveys
Enter, proof and manage data collected
Assist with maintenance of field equipment

Required Qualifications:
Strong work ethic, organizational skills and attention to detail
Valid driver's license, clean driving record and a reliable personal vehicle
Good physical condition and enthusiasm for long days in the field, often starting at sunrise
Willingness to tolerate harsh field conditions (deep mud, sun, dust)
Patience for sighting cryptically-colored birds at great distance using binoculars and spotting scopes
Ability to launch and safely operate a kayak
Ability to navigate using maps and handheld GPS units
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Effective oral and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:
Off-road driving experience (SFBBO truck provided for off-road driving on levees)
First aid certification
Basic bird identification skills
Solid computer skills, including working knowledge of MS Office Suite

Compensation: Applicants should be undergraduate students pursuing a degree in wildlife biology, environmental science or related field. A stipend of $125/week will be provided. Housing is not provided. An SFBBO vehicle, or reimbursement for use of a personal vehicle, will be available for pre-approved, internship-related travel during work hours. SFBBO will supply all survey gear, such as spotting scopes and tripods.

To Apply: Send a cover letter and resume with three references (names, email addresses and phone numbers) to Karine Tokatlian ktokatlian@sfbbo.org. Include all materials in one Word or PDF file, and state your last name in the file name. The deadline for applications is February 15th however the position will remain open until filled.


http://www.sfbbo.org/contact/employment.php