JOB DESCRIPTION

About Audubon

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.

Position Summary

The Associate, Research will be responsible for assisting the Mangrove Fish Research Manager with research in field and office activities associated with the current projects being carried out at Everglades Science Center. This is a full-time, 40 hours a week position monitoring prey base fish populations in the mangrove zone of Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, and the Florida Keys. Scientific responsibilities will primarily consist of the collection of fishes in the mangrove habitats of Florida bay, analyses of fishes, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) surveys by snorkel, and maintaining data accuracy in a database. The Associate will be an established professional contributor, responsible for working independently to achieve operational targets and/or delegated project related work under limited supervision. Additionally, the research associate will also need to work with and maintain physical data. Fish populations are monitored using a 9m2 drop system, throw traps, and seines. Field data will be collected from powerboats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and on foot (wading).

Compensation:

$24.00/hour

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

• Independently collect, identify, preserve, and catalogue, fish, macroinvertebrate, and SAV samples.
• Responsible for the collection of data; identification preservation, and cataloging of data in a database to be statistically analyzed
• Maintain and analyze database information.
• Prepare and maintain detailed records, log and summarize reports of all procedures and results.
• Participate in group projects to maintain the base facility and improve operations.
• Responsible for the maintenance of vehicles and all assigned field gear.
• Assist with sample site preparation and construction.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (hydrology, wading birds, and fish/SAV) of biologists and research associates to meet operational targets of the organization by developing and accessing Everglades restoration projects.
• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
• Research associates are required to assist with other projects as directed.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field is required. Field experience of a minimum of 1 year experience working in marine, estuarine, or wetlands ecology environments. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
• Understanding and respect of the scientific method is paramount.
• Proficiency with Microsoft office, spreadsheets, database programs, and other web-based applications are required.
• Strong organization skills, flexibility in planning, and attention to detail with a high level of accuracy are essential.
• Excellent work ethic, a positive team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field.
• Experience in Florida’s estuaries, mangrove forests and/or coastal wetlands, sampling and identification of fishes is desirable.
• Willingness and ability to work long hours in the field in sub-tropical wetland environments, exposed to the harsh South Florida environment (sun, heat, biting insects, wading in water or mud), sometimes alone. Environment also includes navigating murky waters that serve as the home for potentially dangerous wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, sharks and venomous snakes. Some projects may involve travel in helicopters and small, wing aircraft.
• Ability to traverse 3-8 miles daily through varying terrain, ability to navigate up small trees and balance on branches and roots with or without accommodation.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult terrain with or without accommodation.
• Ability to traverse aquatic environments and maneuver with 40+lbs with or without accommodation.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• Must have experience operating small boats and vehicles, such as trucks, vans, and a couple types of boats and trailering the boats with the truck/van.
• Ability to operate, maintain and repair mechanical equipment such as trucks and boats.

National Audubon Society Competencies: This role will also be accountable to apply and develop the following competencies.

Building Relationships: Establish and nurture meaningful connections and trust with others while fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.

Problem Solving: Find effective solutions to challenges and support decision-making by drawing on critical thinking, creativity, and systematic approaches.

Accountability: Be reliable and trustworthy in fulfilling commitments while recognizing inequities that may impact the ability of others to fulfill responsibilities effectively.

Supporting Change: Adapt to changes and modify behavior in response to new information or unexpected obstacles while considering the diverse needs of others.

Critical Thinking: Take an active approach to analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting information or situations objectively and logically to make informed decisions or judgments.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

Accessibility Statement

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact [email protected]. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.