NYC Bird Alliance seeks two Seasonal Field Technicians to monitor and protect an active Herring Gull colony on Javits Center’s 7-acre green roof. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working both independently and in a small team, and have experience in ornithological field research. These positions, which run from early March to late July, are an exciting opportunity to get involved in urban biodiversity and green roof research with one of the city’s leading wildlife conservation organizations, and on one of the country’s pioneering and largest green roof systems. 

About NYC Bird Alliance  

NYC Bird Alliance (formerly NYC Audubon) protects birds and strengthens urban biodiversity across New York City. The organization advances cutting-edge science, policy advocacy, and inclusive public programs to safeguard habitat, reduce threats to birds, and inspire New Yorkers to build a city where wildlife and communities thrive. An independent chapter of National Audubon, NYC Bird Alliance has 10,000 members and engages tens of thousands New Yorkers annually through programs, outreach, and advocacy.  Our team of 15 core staff is supported by dozens of seasonal scientists and environmental educators, hundreds of wildlife advocates, and thousands of volunteers.  

About the Position

The Seasonal Field Technicians will assist NYC Bird Alliance’s conservation staff in protecting and managing an active Herring Gull colony on NYC’s largest and most high-profile green roof at Javits Center. The technician will be full time at Javits Center, working outdoors in a dynamic environment that includes a large solar farm, visiting public tours, and active maintenance and construction on the roof. The job of the technician will be to prevent human-wildlife conflict by deterring gull usage on parts of the roof where sensitive equipment exists and human visitation is frequent.  The job is physically demanding. Work will be outdoors in all weather conditions, on an exposed roof without elevator access. Shade cover will be provided on the roof in the form of a “remote” field station.  

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist conservation staff with site preparation of the Javits green roof, such as mapping conservation areas and organizing the field station
• Deter gull nesting activities in defined areas, using methodology designated by conservation staff
• Record behavioral data on gull breeding, nesting, and response to  deterrence, and keep detailed daily log of activities
• Maintain scientific design and integrity of the study
• Follow all safety protocols and maintain a safe and clean working environment 

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with ongoing conservation and science projects on site
• Work with and maintain relationships with partners on site Qualifications Required skills and experience
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Familiarity with following monitoring protocols, and meticulous attention to detail in recording data
• Good communication skills and the ability to interact positively with the public and partners on sensitive conservation issues
• Ability to work in physically strenuous field conditions, including comfort working with large birds in an active colony
• Ability to work with minimal supervision (with direction from conservation staff)
• Demonstrated interest in environmental issues

Preferred 

• Degree or coursework in biological science/environmental policy, or background in ornithology preferred 
• Experience working in gull or other colonial waterbird colonies
• Ability to use binoculars, spotting scope, or other survey equipment
• Bird identification skills

Additional Requirements

• Comfort working effectively with people of varied backgrounds
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365/Office, Google Suite, and Zoom required
• Flexibility, positivity, and strong collaboration skills 

Job Details

This is a seasonal, full-time, hourly position working 37.5 hours per week, beginning March 2–9 and running through July 31, 2026. The work schedule will include one weekend day per week. These positions are in-person only.

As members of a small, dynamic team, the field technicians will also have the opportunity to build skills by joining conservation staff in various field projects, both at the Javits Center green roof and throughout the City. Opportunities available include bird banding (Herring Gulls and American Oystercatchers), learning insect and bird monitoring skills, and gaining experience with scientific research. Technicians are encouraged to conduct their own research while working on the roof under the direction of NYC Bird Alliance’s Senior Manager of Green Infrastructure.  

Compensation & Benefits

As a non-exempt employee, the Seasonal Field Technician's salary will be $25/hour. Technicians will receive prorated paid hours off for Memorial Day, Juneteenth, and Independence Day, and sick time as provided by NYC law. NYC Bird Alliance offers the Seasonal Field Technicians a SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with a match once eligibility is met.