The Audubon Mississippi Coastal Bird Stewardship Program (AMCBSP) is a comprehensive conservation and research program based in southern Mississippi that promotes the safeguarding of coastal birds and their habitats through volunteer-driven, citizen science and outreach, and strategic partnerships with federal, state, and local agencies, local academic institutions and community organizations.
We are seeking two enthusiastic individuals: One to serve as a seasonal Anchor Steward for Eastern Harrison and Jackson Counties and one to focus on Hancock and Western Harrison Counties. Supervised by the AMCBSP Stewardship Manager, the Anchor Steward will work with AMCBSP staff and Audubon volunteers during the breeding season (mid April – end of August) to help protect nesting sites from the threats of human disturbance. The Anchor Steward will also be responsible for recruiting and managing volunteer stewards.
The position pays $12.00/hour; is full-time (up to 40 hrs/week); and does not offer short-term housing or benefits.
The Seasonal Anchor Steward will help steward colonial bird species and manage volunteers during the breeding season (April – August) in the coastal counties of Mississippi as directed by the AMCBSP Stewardship Manager.
- Assist in the installation of symbolic fencing around Least Tern (and other nesting bird) colonies;
- Interact with the public to promote conservation of and discourage disturbance of colonies;
- Act as a sentry to encourage beach-goers to avoid nesting colony areas;
- Educate interested beach visitors about beach-nesting birds;
- Collect data on human use of beaches and impacts on colonial nesters;
- Assist in prepping field and outreach supplies and activities prior to the field season;
- Assist with volunteer recruitment;
- Train and schedule volunteers to steward colonies and conduct public outreach during weekends and holidays;
- Provide assistance to the AMCBSP Stewardship Manager in organizing and implementing stewardship events;
- Participate in other projects as necessary;
- Ensure timely and accurate data collection;
- Maintain proper care and inventory of all project equipment.
- Interest and knowledge in bird conservation and/or environmental issues;
- Willingness to work odd hours (early mornings, evenings, weekends) including the July 4th weekend is a must;
- A positive and professional attitude, and excellent interpersonal communication skills;
- Willingness to sit for long hours on the beach protecting sensitive nesting sites;
- Ability to perform outdoor tasks requiring physical exertion, in all weather conditions and on difficult terrain (e.g., walking on sand beach in high heat) while maintaining a positive attitude;
- Ability to lift 50 pounds;
- Ability to maintain a professional and upbeat attitude when working with disagreeable members of the public;
- Ability to work both as part of a team and independently in a dynamic, non-structured environment;
- A passion for environmental conservation and a willingness to learn;
- Must have valid Driver’s License and a reliable vehicle suited for transportation to complete assigned tasks (e.g., driving to assigned sites along the Mississippi coast).