Wading Bird Biologist

About Audubon

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.

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

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.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

Accessibility Statement

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