Hawk Migration Counter – Cape May Hawkwatch

New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO) seeks individual to provide services of a HAWK MIGRATION COUNTER during the autumn hawk migration (August 26 to December 3, 2025). Cape May is one of the premier fall migration hotspots in North America and the hawkwatch has monitored autumn raptor migration since 1976. Our long-term monitoring sites help NJ Audubon keep its finger on the pulse of migration and contribute to the advancement of conservation and environmental education. NJ Audubon fosters the application of sound scientific principles and practices to address conservation issues related to all fauna and the natural habitats with which they are associated.

Services:

• Identify and count all migrating raptors.
• Maintain daily data entry into a digital platform and follow backup data procedures as needed.
• Keep appropriate records for rare sightings.
• Provide regular summaries for post on various CMBO outlets.
• Attend orientation session during late August.
• Provide end of season summary report for NJ Audubon publications in timely manner to receive final payment.

Qualifications:

• Familiarity with bird migration and strong background identifying raptors in flight.
• Careful data collection skills a must.
• Willingness to work weekends and irregular hours in sometimes difficult field conditions.
• Punctual with excellent organizational, time and project management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong computer skills – Microsoft Office to fulfill the job requirements.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, and knowledge of environmental and conservation issues required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to relate to and motivate a diverse range of people, exercise cultural competence and inclusion, and accept direction and constructive feedback.
• Motivated self-starter with capacity to work productively in a team setting with the ability to demonstrate initiative and a positive attitude.
• Strong professionalism and work ethic with the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs. as necessary.
• All applicants must have their own vehicle, and a valid, clean driver’s license.

Start Date: August 26, 2025                 

End Date: December 3, 2025

Compensation up to $12,195. Housing may be provided.

Application Deadline: July 15, 2025.