Experienced Bird Bander – Western Colorado

The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is seeking an experienced Seasonal Bird Bander for two fall migration banding stations in Western Colorado from August 29 to October 11, 2024. Responsibilities include running mist-netting stations, bird capture and banding, and assisting with educational demonstrations. The position requires prior experience in mist-netting and bird handling, with a focus on attention to detail and record-keeping. Housing is provided, and the job is 40 hours per week.
• June 5, 2024

Employer: Bird Conservancy of the Rockies Location: Western Colorado Country: United States Last Date to Apply: No value Open Until Filled: Yes

Title: Seasonal Bird Bander

FLSA Status: Seasonal/ Hourly/ Non-exempt

Location: Banding Stations near Ridgway and Grand Junction, Colorado

Salary: $18.00 hourly

Duration: Aug 29th through Oct 11th, 2024. 40 hours/week

Benefits: None

Purpose: Serves as Primary Bird Bander, running a mist-netting station and assisting with banding demonstrations for the public

About the Organization:

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies conserves birds and their habitats through an integrated approach of science, education and stewardship. Our work extends from the Rockies to the Great Plains, Mexico and beyond. Our mission is advanced through sound science, achieved through empowering people, realized through stewardship and sustained through cross-border collaborations. We monitor and identify population trends, research habitat needs, engage landowners and managers in wildlife and habitat stewardship, and inspire audiences of all ages to be better stewards of the land. Together, we are improving native bird populations, the land, and the lives of people. Learn more about our work and programs at our website: www.birdconservancy.org.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

We are seeking an experienced bird bander for two fall migration banding stations. One is located at Ridgway State Park and the other is located in Grand Junction, CO. Position is approximately 6 weeks of banding; dates are Aug 29th – October 11th. The bander will run both stations; 2 weeks at Ridgway followed by 4 weeks in Grand Junction. Primary duties are bird capture and banding, but also include: set-up and dismantling of banding stations, including clearing net lanes, erecting and maintaining nets, and proper storage of nets at the end of the banding season. Must be able to operate 10-15 nets without assistance. Attention to detail and excellent record-keeping skills desired. Responsible for both field and electronic (Excel) data entry. Work schedule is 40 hrs per week, with a 5 or 6-day work week depending on schedule. The banding station is visited by numerous school groups and the bander will assist with educational banding demonstrations. All equipment is provided. Housing is provided near each banding station. Bander will attend a 2-day orientation at our headquarters in Brighton, CO (Aug 29– 30th). Mileage is paid for travel from Brighton to the banding stations. Reliable personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, and auto insurance required. Hiring is contingent on passing a background check and drug screen.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience required (unless otherwise noted):

Prior experience and proficiency in mist-netting, safe extraction and proper handling, and efficient banding and processing of birds. Must be able to identify, age, and sex a variety of passerine bird species captured, using molt patterns, skulling, and other criteria described in the Pyle Guide. Knowledge of both western and eastern NA bird species desired. Bachelors of Science in biology, ecology, zoology, or related field preferred. Knowledge of avian biology and bird migration, and the ability to effectively communicate to education program participants at the banding station. NABC certification desired but not required.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage members of the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other underrepresented communities to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other class protected by law.

To Apply:

Send a single PDF file containing a cover letter, current resume, and 3 references familiar with your banding skills to: Colin Woolley, colin.woolley@birdconservancy.org. We will begin reviewing applications as they are received and continue until position is filled.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the job. The employee will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties requested by their supervisor. Nothing in this job description shall create or is intended to create, or shall be construed to constitute a contract of employment, express or implied. Employees are held accountable for all duties of this job.