Lead FL Black Rail Technician

Lead FL Black Rail Technician

The Center for Conservation Biology (CCB) seeks a lead field technician to conduct crepuscular call back surveys for Black Rails and other secretive marsh birds in high marsh habitats within Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, FL from 15 Jan - 30 June 2027. This project aims to describe the eastern black rail breeding season in South Florida and address key data gaps to improve management of this species. The lead technician will help supervise 2 technicians on the project. Both properties boast endless recreational opportunities including fishing, kayaking, beach combing, birding, stargazing, among many others, making them outdoor paradise.

Field vehicles and equipment will be provided.

Pay rate is up to $18.00/hr commensurate with experience.

Job Description:

Required Qualifications:

• Highly organized and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Capable of operating an ATV in a safe manner.
• Technicians must possess the ability to navigate using GPS and through marsh/scrub habitats to point count locations.
• Familiar with bird survey techniques and able to identify birds found in Florida wetlands by sight and sound or be experienced birders that can learn new songs/calls quickly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading a field team.
• Experience in hiking in coastal marshes.
• Experience conducting call- back surveys.
• Experience with trail camera operation.

Conditions of Employment:

• Physically capable of accomplishing the work and willing to work early mornings and late evenings.
• Able to traverse marsh type habitat to deploy cameras and conduct vegetation/habitat surveys.
• A valid driver’s license and will be required to pass a standard background check.
• This is a non-exempt position, which may be eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.
• This position is restricted based on the availability of funding.

Duties

75%- Field Research:

• Navigate using GPS and through marsh/scrub habitats to point count locations.
• Responsible for entering and proofing all data collected.
• Technician will also deploy trail cameras and analyze photos to identify nesting and completion of chick rearing.
• Call back surveys:
• Surveys will be a mix of roadside, ATV-accessible, and hiking.
• Call back surveys will primarily be crepuscular: 30 minutes before sunrise to 3 hours after sunrise; 3 hours before sunset to 30 minutes after sunset. Both survey periods (early and late) will occasionally be surveyed during the same day.

25%- Additional Responsibilities:

• Coordination with CCB and property personnel, maintaining a field schedule to accomplish the project’s goals within a specific timeline.
• Adjusting schedule to accomplish goals as required due to weather, tides, etc.
• Ensuring data is collected, entered, proofed, and stored correctly.

Additional Job Description:

Job Profile:

• JP0084 - Laboratory & Research Specialist I - Nonexempt - Hourly - H05

Qualifications

Pay Rate Type:

• Hourly

Compensation Grade:

• H05

Recruiting Start Date:

• 2026-10-12

Position Restrictions:

• Restricted Funds & Restricted Term

• EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the Know Your Rights poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

• Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

• Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

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Benefits

• William & Mary offers a competitive range of benefits that support employee well‑being and professional growth, including access to on‑campus fitness facilities, university libraries, and other wellness resources. Educational assistance, professional development opportunities, and a robust holiday schedule are also available. Learn more and explore our comprehensive benefits website.