Tag: Riparian Bird Monitoring

The Interns will contribute to KBO’s growing riparian bird monitoring program. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain exposure to an array of avian field research techniques while working in a beautiful part of the world. Fieldwork takes place at riparian restoration sites in the Applegate and Rogue Valleys of southwestern Oregon, from April 14 – July 18, 2025 (exact dates TBD). Interns should be prepared to start work by dawn and work outdoors 8-10 hrs/day, 5 days/week. Primary duties are spot-map surveys and nest monitoring for a suite of riparian songbird focal species, insect counts, vegetation surveys, and data entry. Training in field protocols, bird identification, and navigating with a compass and GPS will be provided. Shared housing for the four-person field crew will be provided. Initial transportation to Oregon is the responsibility of the applicant. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, and insurance, and be able to provide their driving record. Interns will be reimbursed for per-mile transportation costs at the federal rate for any work travel done in a personal vehicle.

Stipend: $500 biweekly, plus $500 at the onset for assistance with travel costs
Location: based in Ashland, OR, field sites located throughout Rogue Valley
Duration: April 14 – July 18, 2025 (exact dates TBD)
Application: Send a cover letter, résumé, and 3 professional references to smr@klamathbird.org. Please include your dates of availability, vehicle type (use of a personal vehicle for work purposes may be necessary), and where you saw this job ad in your letter.
Application Deadline: The review of applications will begin on January 2; positions will remain open until filled.

Job Duties

Primary duties include conducting fieldwork and data entry:

• Spot-map surveys to measure the territory density of a suite of riparian birds
• Nest-searching and monitoring to measure productivity and nest success
• Measuring nestling growth rates
• Insect counts
• Vegetation surveys
• Data entry into digital databases

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum education includes at least one year of college. High school graduates may be considered if they have sufficient relevant job experience.
• One previous season of outdoor fieldwork.
• Strong interest in avian biology, ecology, and/or conservation.
• Ability to hike in rough terrain, off-trail for 1-3 miles per day.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and enthusiasm by starting work early (by dawn), and working full days in the field in all weather.
• Ability to carefully follow protocols and meticulously record data.
• Good communication skills with crew members and supervisors.
• Must enjoy the outdoors and be willing to work in areas with poison oak, blackberry thorns, and biting insects.
• Must be comfortable with the potential to encounter rattlesnakes, black bears, and cougars in the field.
• Must be capable of working both independently and with others, interacting with the public, and respectfully sharing housing.
• Comfort around flowing water is necessary; some field sites may need waders to cross streams.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• At least one season of avian field research experience (those with substantial experience should consider applying at the Field Technician level).
• Experience navigating with GPS and compass.
• Ability to identify common Western riparian birds by sight and sound.
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, conservation, or related sciences.
• Ability to use your own vehicle for work purposes may be required, depending on how many crew members have cars.