Hawk Migration Counter Contractor

New Jersey Audubon Society (NJA) seeks Hawk Migration Counter Contractor

Site Location:              Montclair Hawk Lookout, Montclair, NJ

Site Contact:                   Migration Count Coordinator, Cape May Bird Observatory

Dates:                          August 26 to December 2, 2024

Fee for Service:           $10,500

Application Deadline:  July 20, 2024

Background:  Located atop First Watchung Mountain in northern New Jersey, the Montclair Hawk Lookout is the second oldest hawk watch in North America. NJA’s long-term monitoring sites help keep a finger on the pulse of migration and contribute to conservation and education. NJA 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. 

Independent Contractor Duties/Services: 

• Identify and count all migrating raptors as outlined in count protocols.
• Maintain daily data entry into a digital platform and follow backup data procedures.
• Greet and assist visitors as other responsibilities allow.
• Regularly review and manage data in digital platform (including rare sightings).
• Provide bi-weekly summaries for post on various CMBO / NJA outlets.
• Provide season summary report for NJA publications in timely manner to receive final payment.

Independent Contractor Qualifications: 

• Familiarity with bird migration and strong background identifying raptors in flight.
• Careful data collection skills a must.
• Ability to perform services at irregular hours and weekends under sometimes difficult field conditions.
• Punctual with excellent organizational, time and project management skills.
• Strong computer skills including 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 and interact with a diverse range of people, exercise cultural competence and inclusion.
• Motivated self-starter with capacity to work productively.
• Strong professionalism with the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs. as necessary.
• Contractor must have their own vehicle and a valid, clean driver’s license.

Fee for Service: $10,500 total, paid monthly. Final payment contingent on submission of final report (housing may be available).

Interested contractors should email their level of interest and qualifications to: Tom.Reed@njaudubon.org