Fall Bird Migration Counter

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is one of the premier fall bird migration sites in North America. Raptor migration research and education have been conducted at the site for over 50 years! It’s the western-most count on the Great Lakes with an advantageous location on a rocky ridge overlooking the western tip of Lake Superior. Annual fall averages include 63,000 raptors and 200,000+ passerines/other birds counted and approximately 3,000 raptors banded. Fall migration highlights include an amazing diversity of 15-20 different raptor species! The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory (HRBO) is the non-profit organization that manages and conducts bird research and education at the nature reserve. The fall research and education staff of HRBO are key representatives in HRBO’s mission of promoting conservation of raptors and other birds in the Western Lake Superior Region through research, education, and stewardship. 

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth, Minnesota is seeking 2 experienced Bird Migration Counters to document and showcase the amazing fall bird migration at Hawk Ridge. These are seasonal full-time positions for 10 weeks August 27th-November 4th 2025 with potential to extend several weeks at part time until November 30th.

Position Dates: August 27th-November 4th 2025

Primary duties: 

• Identifying and counting raptors and other migratory birds in flight.
• Standardized data recording and management (Trektellen and HawkCount).
• Communication with banding staff on incoming raptors.
• Engaging with the general public at the count platform (when flight permits), and sharing information about the fall count highlights.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of one season of previous hawkwatching experience with ability to identify raptors in flight at great distances (Preferred: additional skills in identification and counting of other bird groups and/or 2 or more years of previous hawkwatching experience).
• Data entry experience.
• Works well independently and as part of a team (staff/volunteers).
• Ability to tolerate working long hours outdoors in varying conditions (cold, wind).
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and personal vehicle for transportation.

Compensation: Starting at $15.38/hour (40 hours/week). Lodging provided, if available.