New Jersy Audubon seeks the professional services of one individual as a WATERBIRD MIGRATION COUNTER at its Avalon Seawatch in Avalon, NJ. It’s a commitment of about 50 weekly hours from approximately October 1 to December 24.
The Cape May Peninsula is one of the premier fall migration hotspots in the country and the Avalon Seawatch has monitored southbound waterbird migration since 1993.Our long-term monitoring sites help NJ Audubon keep its finger on the pulse of migration and contribute to the advancement of conservation and environmental education. NJ Audubon fosters the application of sound scientific principles and practices to address conservation issues related to all fauna and their natural habitats.

Activities/Services Requested:

• Identify and count all migrating waterbirds.
• Maintain daily data entry into a digital platform and follow backup data procedures as needed.
• Keep appropriate records for rare sightings.
• Provide regular summaries for post on various CMBO outlets.
• Some data entry in MS Excel possible.
• Provide end of season summary report for NJ Audubon publications in timely manner to receive final payment.

Qualifications:

• Familiarity with bird migration and strong background identifying waterbirds in flight.
• Careful data collection skills a must.
• Willingness to work irregular hours in sometimes difficult field conditions.
• Punctual with excellent organizational, time and project management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong computer skills, especially Microsoft Office, to fulfill job requirements.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, and knowledge of environmental and conservation issues required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to relate to and motivate a diverse range of people, exercise cultural competence and inclusion, and accept direction and constructive feedback.
• Motivated self-starter with capacity to work productively in a team setting with the ability to demonstrate initiative and a positive attitude.
• Strong professionalism and work ethic with the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs. as necessary.
• All applicants must have their own vehicle, and a valid, clean driver’s license.

Start Date: approximately October 1, 2026 End Date: approximately December 24, 2026
Compensation/Professional Fees of up to $13,134. Housing may be provided.
Application Deadline: August 1, 2026.