Raptor Migration Intern
OVERVIEW
The Golden Gate Raptor Observatory (GGRO) is a program of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and the National Park Service and is made up of approximately 300 community volunteers and a small staff. The GGRO’s mission is to inspire the preservation of California birds of prey. Our business is to study the bird of prey migration along the central California coast, particularly at the Marin Headlands, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. We are dedicated to the conservation of raptors both through careful data collection and through involving the public in every aspect of our research.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Are you a passionate biology or environmental science student who enjoys learning about birds and interacting with many different and multifaceted people in team settings?
Raptor Migration Interns will learn the scientific background of GGRO’s migration studies and our counting and banding field techniques, while discovering the ins and outs of a 35-year-old, muddy-boots, community science operation in an urban national park. You will learn to identify California raptor species, as well as other local birds, and even some insects. You will also lead educational programs on Hawk Hill, interpreting the migration for park visitors and school groups.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
As a GGRO intern, you will support the daily activities of our 300 volunteer scientists in close coordination with GGRO staff.
Raptor migration field research support
Identify and count up to 19 species of birds of prey
Trap and band hawks and falcons
Collect detailed and accurate data in the field
Animal husbandry
Data management and operational support
Enter and proof migration data using Access database and Excel
Provide logistical support for day-to-day office and field operations
Outreach and education
Lead public talks on hawk biology and migration
Lead educational programs for volunteers
Maintain and create outreach materials for public display
Develop content for social media platforms and program newsletters
Assist with special projects
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Recent college graduate or current senior in biological sciences or related field
Passion for bird identification and wildlife study
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Flexible, mature, self-motivated, and a sense of humor
Enthusiasm for welcoming, teaching, and inspiring multicultural audiences
Ability to work with large groups of people with different backgrounds, ethnicities, races, genders, sexualities, ages, and viewpoints
Animal husbandry or wildlife handling experience a plus
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENTS
Ready to work long hours outdoors (in inclement weather, on steep slopes, in rough terrain, and in poison oak)
Able to stay focused and upbeat in the face of sometimes-pervasive fog
Able to stand (and sit) for long periods of time
Able to lift up to 50 lbs
BENEFITS
Gain knowledge of the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory and its mission
Develop proficiency in North American raptor species identification
Opportunity to become familiar with raptor biology, field methods, and scientific literature
Gain experience in conducting a long-term volunteer-staffed wildlife study
Opportunity to exercise teamwork and supervisory skills
Weekly taxable per diem stipend of $225/week is provided with dorm-style housing (single room, shared bath and kitchen) within walking distance of GGRO headquarters OR $375/week without housing
TERMS
Start Date: June 13-15 2020
Schedule and length: 5 days per week (weekends required), mid-June 2020– January 2020
Valid US driver’s license required
The Parks Conservancy strives to engage a workforce reflective of the community it serves. We do not discriminate based on race, color, age, gender, national or ethnic origin religion, sexual orientation, or physical disability. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY
Emailed applications are strongly encouraged; please send cover letter, resume, and three references with contact info (in a single PDF if possible) and include “2020 GGRO Internship” in the subject line.
Completed applications must be received by Monday, February 3rd to be considered.
Send applications to:
Kelsie McInnis
Golden Gate Raptor Observatory
Building 1064, Fort Cronkhite
Sausalito, CA 94965
ggro@parksconservancy.org