University of Florida · Florida · posted yesterday
Description: Along with other partners, the University of Florida has assisted with a long-term mark–recapture study of the endangered Snail Kite since the late 1990s. We are seeking two highly motivated technicians for a six-month position to assist with a long-term study of the endangered Snail Kite throughout the state of Florida. Each of the two technicians will be working on separate, but often coordinated, projects. One will assist with the Statewide Population Monitoring crew, while the other will join the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes (KCOL) Nest Monitoring team. While duties vary based on position, each crew will be responsible for monitoring the Snail Kite population via mark-recapture methods as well as making behavioral observations and collecting data related to foraging ecology. The candidate chosen for the Statewide crew will conduct surveys throughout the wetland ecosystems of central and south Florida from the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes (near Orlando) to the Everglades (near Miami). The KCOL technician will sample primarily in the northern reaches of the project area. Fieldwork for each position involves extensive use and operation of airboats to both survey Snail Kite populations and monitor nesting efforts. Applicants must be willing to work long, flexible hours while maintaining a positive attitude in a hot, humid environment; some days run from sunrise to sunset. All necessary training will be provided, including airboat operation and maintenance. Duties for all crews include spotting Snail Kites and resighting bands, behavioral observations, nest searching, handling and banding Snail Kite nestlings, data entry, and maintenance of field equipment and boats. Applicants must be able to get in and out of boats in deep water, walk up to 0.3 miles through water, and lift 50 lbs. The Statewide Population Monitoring Crew will be responsible for conducting a pre-breeding survey in February and six, three-week surveys that extend into early July. A week is spent in the Everglades, then the Okeechobee region, then the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. During this time, the KCOL Crew will focus on surveying the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and Kissimmee River Floodplain with a heavier bias towards nest searching and behavioral observations. Salary: $17/hour + free housing. Housing will be provided in Okeechobee and Lake Placid, FL for the Statewide and KCOL crew, respectively. Applicants should be comfortable living in a field house with only a few other coworkers. A six-month commitment from approximately late-January to mid-July 2027 is required and the ideal technician has potential to be extended into a crew lead position. Minimum Qualifications: · Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Wildlife, or a related field · Valid U.S. driver’s license · Applicants must have the physical ability to work long hours outdoors, wade through water, and carry field equipment in water · Ability to work long hours (8-12 hours per day with limited supervision) · Must be able to travel overnight for work-related duties · Previous experience conducting point counts or systematic bird surveys Preferred Qualifications: · Ability to comfortably band and handle wild raptors · Experience with trailering and launching boats · Basic mechanical repair skills and engine troubleshooting knowledge · Game camera deployment and photo analysis Dates: January 25, 2027 – July 9, 2027. How to Apply: Please email a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to Phil Stollsteimer (snailkite@ifas.ufl.edu). Please note if you have a preference between joining the Statewide or KCOL crew. Subject line: “Statewide/KCOL Crew Technician Application.” Applications are reviewed upon submission; early application is encouraged. Please reach out with any questions.
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