Overview

The Klamath Bird Observatory is seeking seasonal field technicians from May 2nd through July 15th (some positions available through July 29th), to complete point count surveys throughout the diverse and beautiful regions of southern Oregon, eastern Oregon, and/or northern California. Technicians will work for multiple projects consisting of monitoring effects of oak and stream restoration and long-term monitoring in both private and public lands. Surveyors will work in the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon Caves National Monument, eastern Oregon sagebrush habitat, and more. Applicants should be able to identify a large variety of Western birds as they may be working in a range of habitats including oak woodlands, riparian areas, coniferous forests, montane meadows, and shrub-steppe.

Primary responsibilities

• Conducting point count surveys and vegetation sampling along off-road transects following standard protocols, and associated data entry. Other tasks may be assigned if time permits.
• Field training on protocol methodology and distance estimation will be provided at the onset of the season.
• Camping independently, often at undeveloped or dispersed sites, will be required for most work. A small number of sites also require overnight backcountry camping.
• Experience and comfort with backpacking to sites will be discussed and agreed upon prior to the field season and is not required for every position. A field vehicle may be provided, but some crew members may need to have the flexibility to drive their personal vehicle for work if necessary. If technicians are required to drive their personal vehicle, mileage reimbursement will be provided.

Qualifications

Applicants should have at least one full season of point count field experience, have a full range of hearing, be in excellent physical condition, and be comfortable working and camping independently. Required qualifications include ability to identify western birds by sight and sound, estimate distance to individual birds, hike in steep and rugged off-trail conditions, follow standardized protocols, collect and record meticulous data, communicate effectively, work independently in the forest, work in inclement weather conditions, and tolerate working in areas containing poison oak. Surveyors must possess good map reading, GPS, and orienteering skills and be eager to work long days in the field. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and insurance. Technicians must be willing and able to adhere to strict health and safety guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the duration of hire. Effective June 21, 2021, and until further notice, KBO will require that all Employees and Student Interns be fully vaccinated for COVID‐19, and be able to provide proof of vaccination status.