Wading Bird Biologist

Position Summary:

Audubon Florida seeks a Wading Bird Biologist to support wading bird nesting surveys in Southwest Florida.  The Wading Bird Biologist will work remotely in the Tampa Bay region, focused in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties, but may also include work in Pasco, Polk, Charlotte, and Lee counties.  The majority of the work will be at dredge spoil and natural mangrove islands in coastal Southwest Florida, with some additional work at inland colonies.

This is a full-time seasonal position working 40 hours a week between March 1st through June 2026 and may include some weekend days. The Wading Bird Biologist will be responsible for performing boat-based surveys of wading bird colonies as part of a census of Reddish Egret nesting in southwest Florida.

Compensation:

$19.50 / hour

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions:

• Breeding wading bird and seabird surveys focusing on state-threatened Reddish Egrets, but also including Little Blue Herons, Tricolored Herons, Roseate Spoonbills, Wood Storks, Brown Pelicans and other species.
• Conducting direct count and flightline surveys to determine nesting abundance of colonial wading birds and seabirds.
• Record detailed field data and enter data into databases as required.
• Collaborate with team members and external partners to ensure surveys are completed at all sites.
• Assist with other waterbird conservation and survey efforts as needed.
• Responsible for routine cleaning and maintenance of program vehicles, trailers, and boats as needed.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.
• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field preferred.
• 1-2 years’ demonstrated experience performing bird surveys required; experience in wading bird identification and performing waterbird surveys strongly preferred.
• Comfort working on boats and kayaking is required.
• Comfort trailering boats and operating a motorboat in nearshore marine waters preferred.
• Demonstrated success with accurate recording of field-collected data and data entry using MS Excel or online web portal data entry is preferred.
• Strong verbal communication and problem-solving skills; excellent judgment and decision-making skills.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to complete assigned tasks.
• Must be able to maneuver with up to 35lbs with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to work long days, including early mornings often in hot and humid Florida field conditions.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.