Seasonal Lead Shorebird Technician

Who We Are:

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do.

We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a non‑profit conservation organization, we are funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website,(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Salary/Hourly Rate: $20-22/hour

Hours per week: 40

Job Classification: Limited Term, Nonexempt

Job Type: Onsite

Duration: April 20, 2026 - August 24, 2026 (17 weeks)

Location: Cape Poge, Wasque Reservation, and Long Point Wildlife Refuge, Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown, MA

Join our dedicated team working to protect and manage shorebird populations across four stunning properties on Martha’s Vineyard:
Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Leland Beach, Wasque Reservation, and Long Point Wildlife Refuge.

Cape Poge, Leland, and Wasque form a breathtaking, ten‑mile barrier beach system on Chappaquiddick, a small island just a quick ferry ride from the main island. Long Point Wildlife Refuge, located on the south shore of the main island, combines sweeping upland vistas with pristine coastal habitats. These idyllic and diverse beaches not only showcase some of the island’s most iconic landscapes but also serve as vital habitats for any array of threatened species.

As a part of our team, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring the success of our nesting shorebirds and make a tangible difference in preserving these special ecosystems.

As the Lead Shorebird Technician, you will help lead a team tasked with monitoring and managing several species of beach‑nesting birds on the island of Martha’s Vineyard.

• Perform daily monitoring, management, and data collection activities for all focal species including breeding piping plovers, American oyster catchers, black skimmers, and several species of tern.
• Ensure data is accurate, organized, and up to date.
• Install, maintain, and remove symbolic shorebird fencing and signage.
• Assist with targeted predator control and monitoring efforts.
• Conduct post‑breeding migratory shorebird surveys.
• Compose weekly reports on the status of beach nesting birds and beach access to be distributed organization wide.
• Compile and report productivity data for state piping plover, American oyster catcher, and tern and complete an end of season internal shorebird report.
• Regularly communicate with the Coastal Ecologist, other shorebird technicians, and beach management staff to ensure the successful implementation of our shorebird protection program.
• Help the Coastal Ecologist train and supervise seasonal shorebird technicians.
• Occasionally interact and educate visitors about shorebird and barrier beach ecology.

This is a limited term, non‑exempt position (40 hours/week) reporting directly to the Southeast Coastal Ecologist.

• Skills and Experience:
  • Required:
    • Coursework in wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, environmental science, ornithology, or related experience.
    • The ability to identify birds by sight and sound.
    • At least 3 months of previous field experience (does not need to be shorebird‑related).
    • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
    • The ability to work independently and closely with other staff and the public.
    • The ability to work outdoors daily.
    • The ability to perform physically strenuous duties, such as hiking long distances on the beach.
    • The ability to lift/carry 30 pounds.
    • The ability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional irregular hours.
  • Preferred:
    • Familiarity with beach‑nesting shorebirds.
    • Biological data collection and data management experience.
    • Wildlife tracking experience.
• El…