Shorebird & Seabird Biologist, Tampa Bay

Position Summary:

Audubon Florida seeks a Shorebird & Seabird Biologist for the Tampa Bay area Florida Shorebird Program. In Florida, Least Terns and American Oystercatchers nest on gravel rooftops for lack of undisturbed beach-nesting habitat. Audubon has developed techniques to improve the productivity of these roofs. This position is responsible for surveying historical rooftop nesting sites to determine if they are being used, “chick proofing” rooftops prior to the nesting season, coordinating volunteer groups to monitor sites and return fallen chicks to rooftop nests, educating building managers and businesses about rooftop-nesting birds, managing emergency rooftop repairs during the breeding season, and coordinating with agency staff and law enforcement to protect rooftop-nesting birds.

This position is also responsible for monitoring, management and stewardship of beach-nesting bird sites and seeking out novel nesting habitat opportunities for shorebirds and seabirds, winter monitoring and surveys of coastal birds, and engaging with communities, local governments, beach professionals, and law enforcement to enlist their help in coastal bird protection.

In close collaboration the Tampa Bay Shorebird Program Manager, Audubon staff, and partners, this position will manage implementation of Audubon’s rooftop and coastal conservation work in 5 counties (Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota) in the Tampa Bay area. Most of the rooftop and beach nesting sites are in Pinellas County. The position will be based in a home office in Pinellas County, Florida.

This is a full-time, grant-funded position available approximately through December 31, 2032. Funding is provided by the Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund (GEBF). Additional funding may be available to extend the term of employment beyond December 2032.

Compensation:
$44,813 – $50,414 / year

Essential Functions

• Lead management of stewardship and monitoring of rooftop nesting birds including determining the active/inactive status of rooftop nesting sites, conducting outreach to building owners, and installing chick safety measures such as fencing, or drain covers on rooftops.
• Lead the recruitment, training, and retention of volunteer rooftop monitors and “chick-checkers”.
• Plan and organize community outreach to engage the public in protecting shorebirds and seabirds.
• Manage and enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database and other databases.
• Conduct non-breeding shorebird surveys on beaches from September through March, and staging site surveys in July and August.
• Interpret data and exercise sound judgement to make recommendations to minimize disturbance.
• Collaborate with supervisor to identify, enhance, and protect novel nesting sites including artificial structures and opportunities for beneficial use of dredge material.
• Work with state agency staff and local governments, communities, and other key partners to successfully implement shorebird conservation and management in the Tampa Bay area.
• Work with Audubon’s Communications Director and the press to communicate Audubon’s work to the public through traditional and new media.
• Help coordinate training opportunities for local and state law enforcement and enlist officers’ support to reduce disturbance and respond to wildlife violations.
• Recognize building owners for good stewardship of rooftop colonies.
• Contribute to technical reports, annual progress reports media articles or other publications.
• Participate in regional working groups and workshops, including delivering technical presentations.
• Coordinate reporting and billing for NFWF grant project with supervisor and grant staff.
• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field required.
• 3 years demonstrated advanced specialized skill in bird identification and performing demographic bird surveys using rigorous protocols is required. At least 2 years of experience with shorebird or seabird identification and rigorous surveys required.
• Specialized skill and experience identifying shorebirds and seabirds required, experience handling birds preferred.
• Advanced skill in collecting and interpreting data and data entry using Microsoft Excel and Access.
• Demonstrated recruiting, training, and managing volunteers or comparable environmental education experience required.
• Ability to work comfortably and safely with ladders and on rooftops at varying heights is required.
• Experience installing and operating cameras including mobile (GoPro type), game cameras, and outdoor surveillance systems preferred.
• Demonstrated experience problem-solving, interpreting data to make decisions, and exercising independent judgement while managing multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and operating independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment required.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills and great attention to detail required.
• Superior communication skills and demonstrated ability to work independently and with multiple partners and collaborators.
• Team-focused attitude and the ability to work well independently as well as with others required.
• Familiarity with coastal conservation lands of southwest Florida preferred.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult terrain, and lift 50 lbs with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to work long days, weekends, and holidays as needed, in hot humid field conditions.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.