Morning Flight Counter- Block Island

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is hiring a Seasonal Migration Counter for fall monitoring on Block Island, RI. The role involves daily counts of migrating birds, maintaining records, and producing reports. Candidates should have proficiency in bird identification and relevant education or experience. Housing is provided on the island, and the position requires a commitment to a 35-hour work week.
Position Overview
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), Division of Fish and Wildlife, is seeking a skilled and motivated Seasonal Migration Counter to conduct fall morning flight monitoring on Block Island, RI. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to migration research at one of the premier migration hotspots in the eastern U.S., renowned for its epic fallouts and long history of banding and research. The selected technician will be responsible for daily monitoring of migrating passerines, raptors, and waterbirds at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. Data collected by the technician will contribute directly to ongoing offshore displacement modeling efforts to inform state and regional wildlife management.


Responsibilities

Conduct daily counts of migrating passerines, raptors, and waterbirds from the North Lighthouse at the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
Record data following established protocols
Maintain accurate and organized digital records
Produce seasonal reports
Commitment to a 35-hour work week

Qualifications
Required:

Strong, demonstrated proficiency in identifying passerines, waterbirds, and raptors in flight. Applicants who cannot demonstrate proven proficiency in identifying passerines in flight will not be considered.
Current enrollment in or completion of a degree in a natural resources-related field, OR equivalent professional/field experience
Valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle
Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail
Willingness to work early mornings and in variable weather conditions

Preferred:

Prior field experience at a migration monitoring station (e.g., morning flight count, hawkwatch, seawatch)
Familiarity with standardized migration count protocols

Compensation & Benefits
$577.50 per week

Housing is provided on Block Island for the duration of the position

Opportunity to live and work at one of the most dynamic migration sites on the East Coast


How to Apply
Submit a cover letter and resume via email to the contact below no later than June 1, 2026. Please include “Morning Flight Counter Position” in the title. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged.


Contact:
Sam Miller

Rhode Island DEM, Division of Fish and Wildlife

Samuel.Miller.CTR@dem.ri.gov