Wildlife Monitor – Avian / Rufa Red Knot

Description

We are seeking a qualified Avian Biologist or Wildlife Technician to provide sensitive-species monitoring in support of construction activities at Jacob Riis Park in Queens, New York.

The position will primarily support monitoring for the Rufa Red Knot during its southbound migration season. Monitoring associated with construction on or south of Rockaway Beach Boulevard is anticipated during the September 1–November 30 monitoring period. 

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-construction and active-construction wildlife monitoring. 
• Survey designated areas for Rufa Red Knot presence. 
• Observe and document wildlife behavior and construction-related disturbance. 
• Conduct required baseline surveys prior to construction activities within designated areas. 
• Perform monitoring during required low- and high-tide survey periods. 
• Monitor active construction areas for bird presence and behavioral responses. 
• Maintain accurate field notes, monitoring forms, logs, and photographic documentation. 
• Immediately report behavioral responses or other conditions requiring Government attention. 
• Coordinate monitoring activities with the CMR, NPS, construction personnel, and appropriate wildlife officials. 
• Support implementation of conservation measures when required. 
• Submit required monitoring documentation. 
• Assist in preparation of the final monitoring report following completion of applicable construction activities. 

Requirements

• Qualified avian biologist or wildlife technician with relevant field-monitoring experience. 
• Experience observing and documenting wildlife activity and behavioral responses. 
• Ability to identify and monitor sensitive bird species. 
• Ability to maintain detailed field notes, monitoring logs, photographs, and required documentation. 
• Ability to coordinate monitoring activities around active construction operations. 
• Ability to perform pre-construction, active-construction, and follow-up monitoring. 
• Ability to promptly recognize and report conditions requiring Government attention. 
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods and accommodate monitoring schedules based on construction activities and tide cycles.  

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with Rufa Red Knot surveys or monitoring. 
• Shorebird, migratory bird, or coastal avian monitoring experience. 
• Experience supporting NPS, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, or other federal projects. 
• Experience conducting wildlife monitoring adjacent to active construction. 
• Familiarity with threatened/endangered species monitoring protocols and reporting. 

Project-Specific Monitoring

Baseline surveys may include three survey days, with each survey day consisting of a two-hour low-tide monitoring period and a two-hour high-tide monitoring period. Active construction monitoring will generally require at least four hours of monitoring around the start of construction activity. Additional surveys can be triggered if Rufa Red Knots are observed within 300 feet of active construction.