Marshbird Biological Assistant

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 planets 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 and on Facebook Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.

Position Summary:

A lack of understanding of the temporal and spatial distribution of the Black Rail (Laterallus jamaicensis) in Louisiana has resulted in an inability to (1) study basic aspects of the species biology in this part of the range and (2) implement effective conservation measures to benefit this species. Without knowing when and where the Black Rail occurs in the state restoration and management efforts will be unable to account for the habitat needs of this rare and declining species. This project seeks to build upon eight years of research to locate Black Rails in coastal Louisiana describe important habitat on which they depend and understand their responses to fire management.

Supervised by the Coastal Biologist the Marshbird Biological Assistant will work closely with Audubon Deltas Coastal Biologist to conduct point-count and vegetation surveys. By assisting with this project the Marshbird Biological Assistant will gain experience and learn from experts in the field of conservation and avian ecology while gaining practical skills in ornithological research monitoring techniques and volunteer coordination.

• Length of Assignment: April 1 August 1 2026

• Hours: 40 per week

This position is an on-site position located in Cameron Parish LA.

Compensation:

$19.00 / hour

Essential Functions

• Conduct point count and vegetation surveys at remote sites across south Louisiana. Most point count surveys will begin a half hour before sunrise or one-two hours before sunset and last 2-3 hours preceded or followed by vegetation surveys.

• Assist in data entry as needed.

• Be expected to travel 4-5 days per week staying in provided shared housing in Cameron LA.

• Collaborate with Audubon staff to ensure that equity diversity inclusion and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.

• Other job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications and Experience:

• Must have completed a Bachelors of Science Degree in Biology Ecology Natural Resources Agricultural Sciences or a related field

• Must be willing to work long hours outside under physically demanding conditions (hot cold biting insects etc.)

• Must be able to traverse over a mile through various wet and dry marsh habitats. This includes tall & dense grass oftentimes with uneven footing shallow pools and scrubby vegetation

• Must have strong organizational skills and great attention to detail

• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills

• Experience driving ATVs and/or operating outboard motorboats are a plus

• Valid drivers license and reliable personal vehicle (mileage will be reimbursed at the current Federal rate)

• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing equity diversity inclusion and belonging.

Accommodations:

• It is a requirement for employment to stay in group housing provided in Cameron Parish LA.

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.

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