Bird Ecology and Conservation Ontario (BECO) is seeking a highly motivated field technician to assist with a research project investigating the effects of social cues on the use of new nesting structures for Barn Swallows. BECO is a small non-profit organization focused on using ecological research to further the conservation of birds in Ontario. This is a 10-week position starting May 11, 2015. Primary responsibilities include bird surveys, nest monitoring, and data entry. Applicants must be eligible for Canada Summer Jobs funding and have access to their own vehicle for the duration of the position. A significant amount of driving will be required to travel among field sites (mileage will be reimbursed). Field sites are located near Guelph, Waterloo, and Cambridge. Applicants must have access to their own accommodation in this general area for the duration of the position.

Tasks and responsibilities:

The successful candidate will spend the majority of their time visiting rural properties near Guelph, Waterloo, and Cambridge to monitor new Barn Swallow nesting structures. Responsibilities include:

Bird surveys at new Barn Swallow nesting structures to record the presence of Barn Swallows and all other bird species
Monitoring Barn Swallow nests to assess reproductive success
Data entry
Communicating with landowners and the general public
Assisting with other field work as required (e.g., point counts in other areas of southern Ontario)

Qualifications:

Basic bird identification skills
Willing and able to work independently in a field setting
Strong organizational and record keeping skills
Self-motivated and able to work with little supervision
Comfortable working early mornings and in variable weather conditions
Able to navigate in the field using a map, compass, and GPS
Basic knowledge of Excel and Access to enter and manage data
Valid driver’s licence, good driving record, and access to own vehicle with valid insurance

Preference will be given to candidates who have (1) prior experience with bird surveys and nest monitoring, (2) the ability to identify the majority of bird species in southern Ontario by sight and sound, and (3) are working towards or have completed a degree in wildlife biology or a related discipline. In addition, candidates should have good interpersonal skills and the ability to foster and maintain good relationships with landowners. First aid certification is also an asset.

Applicants must be eligible for Canada Summer Jobs funding. To meet the eligibility criteria you must:

be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the employment;
have been registered as a full-time student in the previous academic year and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in the next academic year;
be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act; and,
be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations.

Compensation: $1,800 to $2,000 per month, depending on experience

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Zoé Lebrun-Southcott:
zoe@beco-birds.org
Please indicate in your cover letter that you (1) meet the Canada Summer Jobs eligibility criteria, (2) have access to your own vehicle for the duration of the position, and (3) are based in the Guelph/Waterloo/Cambridge area or have access to accommodation in this area. Submit your application as a single PDF or MS word file. The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.