PINYON JAY FIELD TECHNICIAN– Utah (two positions)

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is hiring two Pinyon Jay Field Technicians in Utah for approximately 8 weeks, starting March 24, 2025. The role involves conducting field surveys for Pinyon Jays, requiring physical fitness and the ability to work independently in rugged terrain. Technicians will undergo mandatory training and may need to camp in remote areas. Salary ranges from $17.44 to $19.50 per hour, with some travel reimbursements.
• February 22
Employer: Bird Conservancy of the Rockies

Location: Utah

Country: United States

Last Date to Apply: 03/17/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Title: Pinyon Jay Field Technician – Utah (two positions)

FLSA Status: Seasonal / Hourly / Non-Exempt

Reports to: Crew Leader

Direct Reports: None

Location: Utah (statewide)

Salary: $17.44-$19.50 hourly, depending on experience. Some overtime hours may be required. In addition to pay, reimbursement for project-related travel and some lodging will be provided.

Duration: Approximately 8 weeks (late March to late-May)

Benefits: None

Start Date 03/24/2025 (tentative)

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

OVERVIEW

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is seeking experienced field technicians to conduct Pinyon Jay area searches throughout Utah to advance our understanding of Pinyon Jay population ecology. The position will run from approximately March24th through late May. Technicians will conduct area searches for Pinyon Jays primarily in the central and eastern part of Utah within Pinyon Juniper habitat.

Successful candidates must be able to attend a mandatory three-day paid training beginning in late-March. Upon the successful completion of training, technicians will work independently conducting Pinyon Jay surveys. Survey work will include long days in the field and working a variable schedule. Technicians must have a good understanding of Pinyon Jay ecology and be able to identify them by sight and sound upon completion of training. Recording Pinyon Jay breeding behaviors will also be a main objective. Successful candidates should also expect to hike in at sunrise off-trail in rugged terrain on a regular basis. Primitive camping, often without phone service or facilities, and some overnight backcountry travel to survey remote, road-less areas will be required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Applicants should be enthusiastic, physically fit, enjoy travel, and be willing to work long hours in the field. The successful applicant will need to be comfortable hiking and surveying during sunrise in areas with potentially hazardous wildlife including rattlesnake, and mountain lion. Applicants must enjoy working independently with multiple days of solitude. The ability to identify Pinyon Jay and other corvids that breed in Utah by sight and sound is required. A valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, binoculars, camping gear, basic computer skills, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm for conservation and conducting fieldwork are also necessary. Applicants with personal 4WD/AWD vehicles are strongly encouraged to apply; however, Bird Conservancy may be able rent vehicles for qualified applicants that do not possess 4WD/AWD vehicles if they are at least 21 years of age. Desired qualifications include prior experience conducting area search surveys or nest searching, camping, long-distance hiking, and navigating in the backcountry.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

· Ability to identify Pinyon Jay and corvids of Utah by sight and sound is required

· Driver’s license, proof of insurance, and experience driving 4WD vehicles is required

· Experience camping, long-distance hiking, and navigating in the backcountry is desired

Candidates must be able to follow all safety protocols and use good judgment while in the field.

Strong physical and mental endurance to work long days in potentially challenging conditions (snow, mud, etc.).

Ability to navigate off-trail in remote, snowy, steep, and rugged landscapes using topographical maps and GPS units.

Careful and accurate data collection/entry/management.

Strong interpersonal skills for communicating and working effectively with program managers, fellow technicians, and private landowners.

Schedule:

· Work ~ 40 hrs per week (overtime pay after 40 hrs)

· 10 days on/4 days off with some flexibility to accommodate weather and personal needs

· Most field days will begin before dawn and end in the late afternoon

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse work environment. 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, or veteran status.

To Apply:

Email a cover letter detailing your bird identification knowledge and dates of availability, a resume, and three references as a single PDF document to: Rob Sparks at rob.sparks@birdconservancy.org. Applications will be reviewed as soon as they come in and positions will be filled as suitable applicants are found.