In search of field technicians to assist with marine debris removal, vegetation management and seabird monitoring and research on Great Gull Island, New York. Field tasks will involve hand cutting and digging of invasive plants, transplantation of native plants, systematic vegetation surveys, locating, marking and monitoring Common and Roseate tern nests, reading bird bands and recording feeding rate data from bird blinds, and systematic surveys for dead birds. Non-field tasks will involve data organization, entry, and proofing, equipment prep and maintenance.  These positions require continuous residence for up to two weeks at a time (with one-week periods off island) on an island with no running water, limited electricity and internet connectivity. Positions will run for 13 weeks between April 15 (some flexibility in start date) up to as late as August 30th, 2026. Salary is $26/hour. Food is provided while on the island.

Some prior field experience is preferred, and individuals experienced with invasive plant identification, management, and/or bird banding and observation, are strongly preferred. Ideal candidates will also have experience conducting vegetation surveys and experience in seabird colonies, though these qualifications are not required for consideration. The ability to transport yourself to and from the boat launch site in Groton, CT is required. Technicians will use their personal smart phones for data collection in the field. Preference will be given to individuals with an undergraduate degree in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife science, or a related field, but current students pursuing a degree in one of these, or related, fields will also be considered. Other desired qualifications include an ability to deal with the working conditions that a seabird colony of 40,000 birds on a 17-acre island entails: exposure to bird feces, heavy physical work with hand tools wearing full-body PPE in the heat, carrying heavy equipment up and down hills and ladders, and working early mornings and long days. Applicants must be detail-oriented and able to follow established protocols accurately to ensure data reliability.