CHESTNUT RIDGE HAWKWATCH LEAD COUNTER (2021)

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.

To Apply

• Email your cover letter describing your interest and personal goals for this position, résumé or curriculum vitae, and contact information for two references to Tait Johansson, Naturalist-in-Residence, at tjohansson@bedfordaudubon.org by no later than Monday July 24, 2021, but the position will remain open until filled.
• Please include “2021 HawkWatch Lead Counter Opportunity” as the email subject line.