‘Alalā Reintroduction - Research Assistant

The San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research is seeking Research Assistants in support of a reintroduction project for the critically endangered ‘Alalā, or Hawaiian Crow. The goal of the project is to establish self-sustaining populations of birds in the wild using captive propagation and reintroduction techniques. The entire known ‘Alalā population is under the management of the Hawai‘i Endangered Bird Conservation Program. Birds are maintained at the Keauhou and Maui Bird Conservation Centers (KBCC, MBCC) in Hawai‘i, where the species is part of an intensive captive breeding program with a current population of 113 birds. Beginning in September 2016, approximately 12 birds will reintroduced annually to suitably restored habitat.

The Research Assistant will work as part of a team responsible for the post-release monitoring and husbandry of ‘Alalā. Primary duties include: caring for birds in pre-release aviaries, radio tracking released individuals, preparing and provisioning supplementary food, assisting in recapture and transmitter attachment, monitoring behavior and condition of birds both during captivity and following release, detailed record keeping, GIS data management; and other duties as assigned. Staying overnight at remote sites will be required. The Research Assistant will primarily be based at remote release sites, as well as at the Keauhou Bird Conservation Center, both near Volcano, Hawai‘i Island, under the supervision of the Post Doctoral Associate and Conservation Program Manager.

Representative qualifications include, but are not limited to, a Bachelor's degree in biological science or a related field, or equivalent specialized training, or vocational experience in threatened species management; field experience with threatened species; experience monitoring birds using radio telemetry; remote backcountry experience including overnight trips of extended durations; clear and accurate note taking; detailed record-keeping and data management skills; ability to use computer programs for word processing, data entry and management; GIS skills; 4WD experience; positive communication and teamwork skills; and high level of physical fitness and able to lift 50lbs.

This position will require working with federally listed endangered species, and all applicants must meet U.S. Fish and Wildlife requirements for permits.

Start date for this position is May 2016. Scheduled hours will be approximately 40 hours per week. The positions are seasonal to begin with, with the potential for extension into permanent positions depending on the needs of this long-term project.

Please apply at: https://www.hrapply.com/sandiegozoo/AppJobList.jsp under "Research Assistant" position #H12001. Applications close on April 25th, 9.30pm Pacific Standard Time.