Associate, Research

Position Summary

The Associate, Research will be responsible for field and office activities associated with the current projects being carried out at Everglades Science Center. This is a full-time position- 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday with sporadic weekend work, as needed.  The Associate will monitor primarily Roseate Spoonbill nesting and other wading bird nesting populations in Florida Bay, the submerged portion of Everglades National Park, and the Florida Keys. Scientific responsibilities will primarily consist of the monitoring of Roseate Spoonbill and other wading bird nesting, trail camera deployment, and trapping and banding wading birds. In addition, the Associate will be required to assist the Center team with other projects, as needed. Additionally, the Associate, Research will also need to work with and maintain physical data. Field data will be collected from powerboats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and on foot (wading).

Compensation:

$20.19 / hour

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

• Independently collect data on nesting wading birds, especially Roseate Spoonbills.
• Responsible for collecting data and cataloging data in a database to be statistically analyzed.
• Maintain and analyze database information with an opportunity to analyze data for reports and publications.
• 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.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (hydrology, wading birds, and fish) of biologists and research associates to meet operational targets of the organization by developing and accessing Everglades restoration projects.  Research associates are required to assist with other projects as directed.
• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field is required and a minimum of 1 year experience working in marine, estuarine, or wetlands ecology environments. An equivalent combination of experience and education will be considered.
• Understanding and respect of the scientific method is paramount.
• Computer experience and familiarity with spreadsheet and database programs are required.
• Strong organization skills and flexibility in planning.
• Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field.
• Experience in Florida’s estuaries, mangrove forests and/or coastal wetlands, identification of nesting wading birds is desirable.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other web-based applications.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a high level of accuracy and a positive attitude are essential.
• 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.
• The 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/hike 3-8 miles a day through varying terrain, ability to climb 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 swim and lift 40+lbs with or without accommodation.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• Must have experience with small boats, and operating vehicles strongly preferred.
• Ability to operate, maintain and repair mechanical equipment such as trucks and boats.
• Willingness to occasionally work on weekends.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in sustaining inclusive and equitable work environments.

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 Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.