Seasonal Field Technician – Waterbirds

San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory                           

Seasonal Field Technician – Waterbirds

The San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory (SFBBO) is a regional not-for-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of birds by conducting scientific research, avian population monitoring, habitat restoration, and connecting people to nature. We conduct this work in support of bird and habitat conservation. 

We are looking for someone to join our team as a Seasonal Field Technician. The position will begin on September 1 2026, or as soon after as possible. The position will continue through May 31 2027. 

The technician will assist with waterbird surveys at managed ponds in support of the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project (www.southbayrestoration.org), with supplemental assistance with additional field biology projects. The biologist will receive training and mentorship from SFBBO staff and will develop their skills in waterbird survey techniques and data management.

The position will require an average of 30 hours per week, with the exact time commitment dependent on the duration of field surveys. The position will be based in Milpitas, CA with field sites throughout South San Francisco Bay. 

In this role you will:

• Conduct waterbird surveys and water quality sampling at South Bay ponds, identifying and counting all 80+ waterbird species present
• Work with SFBBO staff, partner agencies, and volunteers to coordinate field work
• Enter, proof, and manage data collected
• Assist with equipment maintenance
• Assist with other SFBBO avian fieldwork and projects as assigned
• Execute an independent project with assistance from senior staff

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS in biology, ecology, or related field OR equivalent work experience
• Experienced at bird identification and familiar with waterbird species of the San Francisco Bay (including shorebirds, gulls, and waterfowl)
• Strong independent work ethic, organizational skills, and attention to detail
• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record (for traveling to field sites; a reliable personal vehicle is recommended for reaching the SFBBO offices but not required)
• Ability to navigate and orient using maps
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Effective oral and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent waterbird identification skills of challenging groups (gulls, peeps)
• Experience counting large flocks of foraging and roosting birds
• Off-road driving experience (SFBBO truck provided for driving to field sites)
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Access
• Ability to work independently in ArcGIS, R, or Claude Code desirable, but not necessary

Schedule and Physical Requirements:

• The ability to traverse uneven, rough, or inclined terrain while in the field in order to carry out field surveys. The hire will be exposed to outdoor elements (mud, sun, dust, salt spray) while conducting field surveys.
• The ability to tolerate long field days in isolated locations (up to 8 hours)
• Irregular hours on field survey days, including early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends; most weeks will be 5 days in the field, with work hours variable depending on the time of high tide, sunrise, and sunset
• The ability to drive company vehicles off-road to remote field locations (SFBBO truck provided for off-road driving)
• The person in this role will sometimes need to move or transfer materials weighing up to 20 pounds
• Reasonable accommodations will be made to allow individuals to perform the essential functions of this position

Our Commitment to Diversity

SFBBO is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. We firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the equally diverse communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We believe in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. A healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered.

We strongly encourage people of all backgrounds and identities, including but not limited to people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. In your cover letter, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (they/them, she/her, he/him, etc.).

Compensation

Compensation is $23.50/hour. This is a part-time position, with an expected average of 30 hours per week (range of 15-35 hours a week). There is the possibility of additional part-time hours for individuals with the capability to work independently in R or ArcGIS. Remote work and flexible hours are available on non-field days. An SFBBO vehicle or reimbursement for use of a personal vehicle will be available for pre-approved, work-related travel. SFBBO will also provide most field gear, including a spotting scope.