Seasonal Raptor Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Biology Assistant - AmeriCorps

This Biology Assistant is an AmeriCorps position. COLM's numerous sandstone cliffs provide important nesting habitat for many raptor species; they also provide excellent recreation opportunities for rock climbers. Climbers, hikers, and other visitors have been documented in close proximity to raptor nests. Without intervention, this ongoing disturbance will result in failed nests and/or abandoned nest sites and territories. As top predators in the food chain, this has major implications to the park's ecosystem. In 2014, a climbing route inventory documented a proliferation of over 400 climbing routes throughout the park; more have likely been created over the past 10 years. Seasonal climbing closures were first recommended in 1993 by the park's Climbing Mgmt Plan/EA but were never implemented. Since 1993, Mesa County's population has increased 67% and is forecast to increase another 42% by 2050. Annual data are needed to inform where and when to enact (then remove) climbing route closures in a timely fashion, thereby both protecting park resources and maximizing visitor recreation opportunities. This project helps increase resilience of the park's ecosystem to the adjacent, rapidly developing urban area and the associated increase in recreation within the park.

This Americorps member would lead the third year of a 3-year pilot project to develop a raptor monitoring program at Colorado National Monument (COLM). The participant would collaborate with COLM natural resource staff and a local raptor biologist to: 1) Monitor at-risk raptor species (e.g., golden eagles, peregrine falcons, prairie falcons), their breeding territories, and active nests within established high priority areas, 2) Follow the park's standard operating procedures and guidelines for raptor monitoring similar to those in place at Pinnacles and Zion national parks, 3) Lead a team of 6-8 volunteers to assist with the monitoring, 4) QA/QC and maintain accurate program data (esp. GIS), 5) Integrate monitoring results into timely and informed park decisions and advisory recommendations for closing and re-opening rock climbing routes that risk disturbing nesting raptors, and 6) Implement closures approved by park leadership in collaboration with staff from other park divisions.

United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien.

Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.

Prior to starting the position, agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check for the employer of record, Conservation Legacy, and a separate government security background check for the host site.

The applicant must be available to participate for the entire 26 Weeks in order to be considered and participate.

Applicants should be advanced undergraduate or graduate students (or already have their undergraduate/graduate degree) in a related field. Educational background and career objectives are in ornithology, wildlife biology, wildlife management, or visitor use/recreation management. Desirable applicant attributes include:

• Possess both education and field experience in wildlife biology (especially ornithology).

• Given the amount of field activities involved, training in previous bird survey field methods.

• Ability to recognize and identify birds in the field.

• Advanced GPS and GIS skills.

• Proficient and diligent with data collection and organizing field notes; attention to detail and organized.

• Able to conduct projects well independently in field and office settings but be flexible enough to conduct projects well as part of a team.

• Ability to operate independently and travel on foot in rugged, remote areas using topographic maps and a compass.

Preference will be given to applicants with extensive outdoor skills, especially hiking.

• Good written and verbal communication skills.