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 an Indiana Breeding
Bird Survey route would be one example of such survey work.  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
<http://ctap.inhs.uiuc.edu/>
Look for on-line INHS biological data at http://www.inhs.uiuc.edu