Audubon's Everglades Science Center at Tavernier was established in the Florida Keys in 1939, by National Audubon's first Director of Research, Robert Porter Allen. Currently, Audubon scientists are studying the flow of freshwater into Florida Bay and the impacts that the diversion of water has had throughout the Everglades ecosystem. Our experiments link changes in freshwater flow to decreased plant production and subsequent loss of small fishes. These are vital parts of the ecosystem, making up the food base for many higher predators such as game fishes, crocodilians, wading birds and birds of prey.
The Seasonal Field Technician is a full-time position assisting with essential research studies, with their main focus being on assisting biologists in monitoring, trapping, tagging and banding Roseate Spoonbills. They will also assist with other Center projects and activities as necessary.
This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands on field experience in wading bird ecology. The position is expected to begin in November, 2019 and last for approximately 16 weeks with an hourly rate of $12.50 per hour and an estimated 40 hour work week.
- Maintain and analyze database information;
- Prepare and maintain detailed records, log and summarize reports of all procedures and results including graphs, scientific calculations, and statistical analysis charting;
- Collect and enter biologic wading bird data from Florida Bay, Tampa Bay, and the Everglades;
- Collaborate in a multi-disciplinary team of biologists and research associates with all research projects;
- Participate in group projects to maintain the base facility and improve operations;
- Conduct flight surveys of roseate spoonbill colonies; monitor and band spoonbill chicks;
- Assist with site preparation and construction (as needed);
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field;
- Experience in Florida’s estuaries, mangrove forests and/or coastal wetlands is a plus;
- Valid driver’s license required;
- Must have experience with small boats, and operating vehicles;
- Knowledge of bird capture and banding techniques.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work long hours in the field in sub-tropical wetland environments, exposed to the harsh South Florida environment (sun, heat, biting insects, wading in water or mud), sometimes alone;
- Ability and willingness to working in murky waters that serves as the home for potentially dangerous wildlife such as alligators and venomous snakes;
- Some projects may involve travel in helicopters and small, fixed-wing aircraft.