Avian Technician I

About the role

At Verdantas, we are seeking an Avian Tech to support avian monitoring, banding, habitat assessment, and population management efforts in Florida for scrub ecosystems. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with one of Florida's most iconic threatened bird species while contributing to long-term conservation and ecological monitoring initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Carry out daily field surveys to locate Florida Scrub-Jay roost sites, territories, and family groups.
• Acclimate birds to dummy traps in preparation for banding.
• Identify and document color-band combinations and individual birds across the study area.
• Conduct habitat assessments and ground-truth vegetation and habitat classifications using established protocols.
• Collect and manage field data using ESRI Field Maps, Survey123, GPS units, and other digital tools.
• Maintain accurate field notes, data records, and project documentation.
• Coordinate with project managers, federal agency staff, and installation personnel to ensure safe and efficient field operations.
• Operate in compliance with all safety requirements and permit conditions.
• Aid in the preparation of technical reports, data summaries, and project deliverables.
• Aid in the capture and handling of Florida Scrub-Jays using approved trapping and banding techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Zoology, or a related field.
• Experience conducting wildlife surveys, ecological monitoring, or field-based biological studies.
• Ability to work independently in remote outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
• Strong observational, organizational, and data collection skills.
• Experience using GPS equipment, GIS software, ESRI Field Maps, Survey123, or similar data collection platforms preferred.
• Familiarity with bird identification and avian ecology preferred.
• Experience with bird banding, mist-netting, trapping, or wildlife handling preferred.
• Understanding of habitat assessment and vegetation monitoring techniques preferred.
• Ability to hike long distances over uneven terrain while carrying field equipment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy.
• Ability to work early mornings and occasional variable schedules based on field conditions.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Experience with Florida Scrub-Jays or Florida habitat systems preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Zoology, or a related field.
• Experience conducting wildlife surveys, ecological monitoring, or field-based biological studies.
• Ability to work independently in remote outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
• Strong observational, organizational, and data collection skills.
• Experience using GPS equipment, GIS software, ESRI Field Maps, Survey123, or similar data collection platforms preferred.
• Familiarity with bird identification and avian ecology preferred.
• Experience with bird banding, mist-netting, trapping, or wildlife handling preferred.
• Understanding of habitat assessment and vegetation monitoring techniques preferred.
• Ability to hike long distances over uneven terrain while carrying field equipment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy.
• Ability to work early mornings and occasional variable schedules based on field conditions.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Experience with Florida Scrub-Jays or Florida habitat systems preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of avian biology and ecology.
• Proficiency in GPS equipment and GIS software.
• Experience with field data collection methods.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Strong organizational and data management skills.
• Effective communication and report writing abilities.

Benefits

• Flexible Work Environment
• Paid Parental Leave
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and AD&D Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off + Holidays

Pay

Salary Range: $23.00 - $25.00

Schedule

Variable schedule based on field conditions.