Seasonal Shorebird Field Biologists (2)

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission is hiring two Seasonal Shorebird Field Biologists to join our team in the Florida panhandle. These positions are part of our Shorebird Program, which focuses on conserving and managing shorebirds and seabirds statewide through monitoring, habitat management, research, and public engagement.

Position Overview

We are seeking two enthusiastic field biologists to monitor and manage five focal shorebird and seabird species in the Florida panhandle. The focal beach-nesting bird species include snowy plovers, Wilson’s plovers, American oystercatchers, least terns, and black skimmers. These roles offer an opportunity to contribute to the conservation of Florida’s unique coastal ecosystems and work as part of a team dedicated to preserving vulnerable bird species.

Position Details:

• Based in Panama City, FL, with monitoring coverage extending from Port St. Joe to Destin with a focus on coastal state and federal lands.
• Have flexible start dates between February 14th and March 14th, 2025. The position will last six months from the start date.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Locate and monitor shorebird and seabird nests and broods.
• Track and record nest locations, hatch dates, nest success, fledgling success, and other relevant data.
• Erect and maintain protected nesting and brood-rearing habitat.
• Capturing, banding, and re-sighting snowy plovers, Wilson’s plovers, and American oystercatchers.
• Monitor predation by observing tracks and using game cameras.
• Conduct disturbance observations
• Data entry into the Florida Shorebird Database and other relevant
• Engaging with volunteers and educating the public about shorebird conservation.
• Conducting year-round surveys of non-breeding shorebirds and seabirds, with a focus on piping plovers and red knots.

Qualifications and Experience: This role is perfect for someone who thrives in dynamic field environments and is committed to protecting shorebird populations!

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Natural Resources, Wildlife Biology, Zoology, or a related field is required.
• Field Expertise: Experience with birds or endangered species is recommended. Two to three years of experience in shorebird identification, surveying, and re-sighting banded shorebirds is a plus.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with digital cameras, GPS, Basecamp, Google Earth, and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, and Access) is recommended.
• Strong Observational Skills: Ability to prioritize tasks and solve problems independently while working in the field.
• Work Ethic: Willingness to work irregular hours to meet objectives.
• Communication: Effective, engaging, and diplomatic communicator, both verbally and in writing.
• Passion for Conservation: A demonstrated focus on avian research and conservation.

Physical Requirements/ Working Conditions

• Able to walk in soft sandy substrates, up to 10 miles/day
• Able to lift and carry spotting scope and other field items on sandy beaches for long distances.
• Able and willing to work outdoors on beaches in all weather conditions- often hot and humid conditions
• A valid driver’s license is required; proficiency in towing trailers and operating all-terrain vehicles and boats is preferred.