Part-Time Bird Bander run MAPS stations Northern Sierra

Point Blue Conservation Science is a growing and internationally renowned non‑profit organization with over 160 staff and scientists. Founded in 1965 as Point Reyes Bird Observatory, our mission and programs have evolved over time to include a broad range of conservation activity, from restoration to environmental education to innovative work in the field of regenerative agriculture. We have a proven track record of scientific excellence.

We are hiring one seasonal, part‑time Avian Technician to help us run two long‑term MAPS stations near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Both stations are in meadows, yielding capture rates of ~25–80 birds per day and consisting of ~50 species in a season, with some of the more common species being Song Sparrows, Wilson’s Warblers, Orange‑crowned Warblers, and Mac Gillivray’s Warblers. In addition to banding, the technician will help with data entry and validation each week.

To be determined based on candidate preference. We can provide housing near our study sites and are flexible about what those arrangements might look like given the needs of a part‑time employee.

Tentatively, 25 May – 7 August 2026.

Part‑time, seasonal.

Hourly: $23.15 per hour, depending on experience, with overtime pay according to California State law. Housing will be provided at no cost in Chester, CA on dates when working at the MAPS stations. Benefits limited to up to 40 hours of sick pay.

• Help clear net lanes; set up, take down, and operate mist nets and banding station.
• Extract and band birds; identify, sex, and micro‑age birds.
• Data entry and proofing (could potentially be completed remotely).
• Work pattern: MAPS stations are run every ten days, and the technician would need to be in or near Chester, CA for two days at a time approximately every other week (one day for each banding station). Generally work 40–60 hours per month, flexible if needed.

• Experience extracting, banding, and micro‑aging passerine and near‑passerine species, preferably in the Western U.S.
• Experience running or helping run a passive mist netting operation.
• Confidence in hiking and navigating in complex wetland habitats with uneven ground and dense shrub cover.
• Self‑motivation, enthusiasm, a good sense of direction, ability to cope with inclement weather, willingness to spend long hours in the field and on the computer, and ability to work well independently and with others.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license, at least two years of driving experience, and a clean driving record with no more than one or no moving violations in the last three years.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and to hike actively for up to 5 hours per day.

• Multiple seasons of passerine banding experience.
• Academic background in ecology, environmental studies, or related field.
• Use of a personal vehicle is highly desirable and might be necessary depending on the technician’s location. Proof of insurance and mileage reimbursement at the Federal IRS rate for personal vehicle use.

The work environment includes locations with limited cell reception, complex meadow terrain, and MAPS team sites. Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and hike actively for up to 5 hours per day.

Field technicians should have their own field gear, including binoculars, daypack, raingear, hiking boots, knee‑high rubber boots, etc. A list of required and suggested items will be provided upon hiring. Gear can be loaned if financial burden is overwhelming.

Point Blue is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, disability status, or membership or application for membership in an uniformed service, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. Point Blue will make reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities to complete the application and/or participate in the interview process.