FL Black Rail Field Technician-1

Job Requisition:

JR102147 FL Black Rail Field Technician-1 (Open)

Job Posting Title:

FL Black Rail Field Technician-1

Department:

CC00050 WM001 | PROV | Center for Conservation Biology

Job Family:

Staff - Lab & Research Support

Worker Sub Type:

Wage-Temporary (requires end date - non-benefited) (Fixed Term) (Fixed Term)

Job Requisition Primary Location:

Remote Work - Florida

Primary Job Posting Location:

Posting Location - William & Mary

Job Description Summary:

The Center for Conservation Biology (CCB) seeks field technicians to conduct crepuscular call-back surveys for Black Rails and other secretive marsh birds in high marsh habitats within Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, FL from 15 Feb - 15 May 2027.

This project aims to describe the eastern black rail breeding season in South Florida and address key data gaps to improve management of this species. Both properties boast endless recreational opportunities including fishing, kayaking, beach combing, birding, stargazing, among many others, making them an outdoorsman's paradise. Field vehicles and equipment will be provided

Pay rate is up to $15.50/hr commensurate with experience

Job Description:

Required Qualifications:

• Technicians must possess the ability to navigate using GPS and through marsh/scrub habitats to point count locations.
• Technicians should be familiar with bird survey techniques and able to identify birds found in Florida wetlands by sight and sound, or be experienced birders that can learn new songs/calls quickly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in coastal marshes
• Experience hiking in coastal marshes
• Experience conducting call back surveys
• Ability to operate an ATV.

Conditions of Employment: 

• Applicants will need to be physically capable of accomplishing the work and willing to work early mornings and late evenings.
• Most surveys will be roadside but technicians must be able to traverse marsh type habitat to deploy cameras and conduct vegetation/habitat surveys.
• Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and will be required to pass a standard background check.
• This is a non-exempt position, which may be eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.
• This position is restricted based on the availability of funding.

Duties: 

100%- Field Research:

• Call back surveys:
  • Surveys will be a mix of roadside, ATV-accessible, and hiking.
  • Call back surveys will primarily be crepuscular: 30 minutes before sunrise to 3 hours after sunrise; 3 hours before sunset to 30 minutes after sunset. Both survey periods (early and late) will occasionally be surveyed during the same day.
• Technician will also deploy trail cameras and analyze photos to identify nesting and completion of chick rearing. Surveys will be a mix of roadside, ATV-accessible, and hiking.
• Technicians will be responsible for entering and proofing all data collected

Additional Job Description:

Applies knowledge of sanitation techniques and laboratory safety.
Applies knowledge of research and testing procedures and techniques, and of animal handling, care and welfare.
Performs a variety of procedures supporting laboratory, research, clinical or autopsy and necropsy services, or geological services.
May provide limited surgical assistance.
Follows established directions and procedures.
Frequent contacts with co-workers, supervisors, students, faculty, and research staff to discuss study techniques or results or handling and care of animals.

Job Profile:

JP0215 - Laboratory & Research Technician - Nonexempt - Hourly - H04

Qualifications:

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

Compensation Grade:

H04

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-10-12

Position Restrictions:

Restricted Funds & Restricted Term

EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal

Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check. 

Applicant Notice: By applying for this position, you consent to William & Mary's use, review, and retention of your application materials for recruitment and employment purposes. Materials may be shared with authorized individuals participating in the hiring process and will be managed in accordance with applicable laws and university policies.

Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.