Applications are being taken for field assistants to work with Illinois
 Natural History Survey ornithologists in conducting breeding bird survey's
statewide this coming summer.  The positions are 40 hour per week positions
and will run from approximately 15 May  31 July.  Duties for the field
assistant will involve independently conducting point-count surveys of birds
in forests, wetlands, and grasslands throughout Illinois.  Although
experience
with GPS systems is not a necessary pre-requisite for the positions, the
field
assistant will be expected to locate survey census points with a GPS
machine,
so for those without GPS experience, training for using GPS will be
provided.
  Other skills which the field assistant should possess include orienteering
(through use of a compass) and some minimal computer skills, for use in data
entry, etc.  A valid driver's license is also required.
         However, the main qualification necessary for filling these
positions
is the ability to IDENTIFY ALL SPECIES OF BIRD that occurs or is likely to
occur in Illinois/the midwest by BOTH SIGHT AND SOUND (SONG AND CALLS).  In
order to accomplish this, the applicant should have excellent hearing.  The
applicant must also be willing to work outside under a variety of field and
environmental conditions and travel 3-4 days at a time throughout Illinois
with overnight stays (motel costs will be reimbursed).  Mileage will be
reimbursed for use of personal vehicles, or the possibility exists that a
vehicle may be supplied.  Some overtime work may be necessary for the
applicant to be able to complete the 20-25 censuses that will be expected of
them to complete. The rate of pay for this position will be $10.00/hour.
         Those with experience in conducting bird point-count surveys should
mention any and all such work when applying.  Conducting a USGS Breeding
Bird
Survey route would be one example of such survey work.  This position is
perfect for an experienced birder looking to make a little money and do a
little traveling, while participating in a worthwhile project dealing with
your favorite hobby!  If you have more questions regarding any aspect of
this
project, please contact me at the address/phone number below.


Steven D. Bailey
CTAP Ornithologist
Illinois Natural History Survey
1816 S. Oak St.
Champaign, Illinois 61820
Phone: 217/244-2174
Fax: 217/ 265-5110
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Visit the CTAP homepage and On-line data at http://ctap.inhs.uiuc.edu
Look for on-line INHS biological data at http://www.inhs.uiuc.edu