Join our HawkWatch Team as the Lead Counter
CHESTNUT RIDGE HAWKWATCH LEAD COUNTER
Bedford Audubon is pleased to announce the availability of a 13-week paid opportunity in field (raptors) biology at our Chestnut Ridge HawkWatch in Bedford Corners, New York.
Required Skills & Qualities
The ideal candidate for the Lead Counter should:
- Possess keen raptor identification abilities, especially at a distance.
- Be an enthusiastic individual with a passion for environmental conservation, field biology, and raptors.
- Possess basic computer literacy, word processing, and spreadsheet literacy along with excellent written and verbal skills. Attention to detail is a must.
- Be comfortable with cheerfully communicating with the public at large, including seniors, students, and families.
- Be self-motivated and able to work successfully independently and in a supportive team atmosphere outdoors as well as in a casual yet professional office setting.
Essential functions of the position require hiking, standing outdoors for long periods at a time, and carrying 20 pounds of gear (optics, first aid kit, etc.). This is a long count, and not for the faint of heart!
The Lead Counter must provide their own binoculars and spotting scope. The Lead Counter should hold a valid driver’s license and have personal transportation. Mileage is not reimbursed.
The Lead Counter will take high-level direction from the Naturalist-in-Residence.
Education & Prior Work Experience
- Previous experience identifying and counting raptors during migration is essential; and experience with HMANA count protocols and HawkCount submission is preferred, but not essential.
- A degree in Wildlife Biology, Wildlife Management, Natural Resources, or equivalent related experience is preferred.
- Experience with nature interpretation and education is desired.
Core Responsibilities
- Prepare and maintain the HawkWatch platform for the season.
- Lead the Count approximately five to six days a week, following HMANA count protocols.
- Enter data into HawkCount on a daily basis.
- Provide nature interpretation to the visiting public.
- Work with the Bedford Audubon team to provide nature interpretation during public and school programs.
- Prepare a full written report of the season’s observations.
- Additional opportunities for research and activity (e.g., communications, workshops, etc.) are available, depending on the candidate’s experience and personal goals for the Lead Counter Opportunity.
- Assist in the smooth operation of Bedford Audubon.
HawkWatch Lead Counter Opportunity Summary
- August 25 – November 23, 2021, approximately 9am-5pm, 5-6 days/week with some longer days and weeks during peak migration
- Regular rate is $14/hour, overtime rate (more than 40 hours/week) is $21.00/hour
- We are pleased to offer a voluntary housing credit that includes lodging and utilities at our historic Bylane Farm. The housing credit will be applied to your hourly rate. Please inquire for details.