The Shorebird Preserve Assistant (SPA) will assist in the management of Goosewing Beach Preserve and other nearby sites for the 2019 spring/summer season.
This full-time, short-term field position is physically demanding and includes working weekends (Saturdays) and some evenings. Duties include Piping Plover and Least Tern management; maintenance of fenced nesting areas; on-site public education and community outreach regarding The Nature Conservancy's management of the plover and tern nesting sites and barrier beach ecology; assisting with preserve nature programs and events; oversight of beach use at Goosewing; and supervision of volunteers. The SPA will gather data on abundance and breeding success of the birds and implement management strategies and will produce a comprehensive field report at the end of the season.
The SPA works closely with the Goosewing Program Manager and other Conservancy staff, interns and volunteers. The position is full-time, short-term, (35 hours/week) and is paid hourly. It begins on March 4, 2019 and terminates August 30, 2019. The SPA is supervised by the Conservancy’s Goosewing Program Manager. Housing is not provided.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Monitor shorebirds at sites in Little Compton, Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts. Protect nesting territories and nests with symbolic fencing and predator exclosures where necessary, modify fencing periodically as beach situations change, and maintain the condition of fencing. Make frequent observations of plovers and accurate season-long counts through all phases of the April-August breeding cycle. Record numbers and location of breeding pairs, nests, eggs, hatchlings and fledglings, noting the timing of all events. Document nest and chick losses and determine the cause of mortality. Monitor and assess predator activity within nesting areas. Prepare an end of the season report.
- Initiate positive, engaging communications with beach visitors and landowners to promote understanding of wildlife and habitat, and foster better compliance with preserve use guidelines. Assist in nature programs and development of educational outreach materials. Serve as a liaison between the Conservancy and the Little Compton South Shore Beach staff.
- Monitor recreational use and maintain equipment and signs.
- Assist in the supervision, recruiting and training of interns and volunteers.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
- May require long hours in isolated settings.
- Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
- May work under infrequent supervision.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
- Experience working in a team environment.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, driver’s license).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Ability and willingness to deal with the general public in a friendly, outgoing and professional manner; excellent communication skills.
- Ability and willingness to work outdoors on weekends, holidays, some evenings; and sometimes, in inclement weather conditions. Must be in good physical condition.
- Ability to work independently and with others.
- Degree in, active study, or knowledge of natural sciences preferred.
- Field experience and ability to identify birds preferred.
- Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
- PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.