Navarre Beach Seabird Steward

Position Summary

Audubon Florida supports management of beach-nesting birds through much of the Florida Panhandle by posting, stewarding, and protecting nesting areas from disturbance. To better monitor and protect the nesting seabirds and shorebirds along beaches and other nest sites, Audubon is hiring a seasonal Seabird Steward to work at beach-nesting bird sites within the Navarre Beach area. The primary responsibility of the Navarre Beach Seabird Steward is to survey nest sites of Santa Rosa County including Navarre Causeway, Navarre Beach Marine Park, and sites along Highway 399, as well as organize volunteers to conduct public outreach at seabird nesting sites. Nesting species of importance include Least Tern, Black Skimmer, Snowy Plover, and Wilson’s Plover. Additional responsibilities include assisting external partners with research and management, and data management at the discretion of the supervisor.

This is a full-time seasonal position working 40 hours a week with a focus on weekend days and holidays, including Memorial Day and Independence Day. The position is expected to begin on April 15th, 2024, and continue through the end of nesting season, to be determined in consultation with supervisor. Nesting may persist into late August or early September.

Compensation:

$15.00 / hour

Essential Functions

With the help of the Panhandle Stewardship Coordinator, the Navarre Beach Steward will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Monitor nesting birds and conduct minimum weekly counts of nests, chicks, and fledged young of each nesting species.
• Conduct public outreach at nesting beaches on weekends and holidays, to target maximum number of beachgoers and prevent nest disturbance.
• Assist with recruitment of volunteers; train and schedule volunteers to chaperone nesting birds and conduct public outreach at nesting sites on weekends and holidays.
• Install symbolic fencing and posting around new nest areas as needed.
• Report and enter data in a timely manner as instructed by supervisor.
• Work closely with Audubon staff, external partners, and volunteers in a positive and professional manner at all times.
• Communicate any disturbance, changes, or issues at seabird nesting sites.

Qualifications and Experience

• Must have strong communication skills with a willingness to engage with the public.
• Ability to organize, recruit, and schedule volunteers.
• Attention to detail and keen behavioral observation skills.
• Work well independently and as a team.
• Must be able to work in Florida summer field conditions, walk long stretches in sand, and the ability to move 30 lbs with or without accommodation.
• A flexible approach to work and be willing to work weekends and holidays.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and personal vehicle suited for transportation to complete assigned tasks.
• Familiarity with Santa Rosa beaches preferred.
• Previous experience with monitoring nesting shore/seabirds strongly preferred, but similar experience will be considered.
• Interest in conservation and passion for the mission of the National Audubon Society.