2026 Avian Wildlife Biologist Opportunity

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine seeks a highly motivated avian wildlife biologist to lead the spring and summer 2026 implementation of our avian monitoring and management work and to perform other biological and refuge management duties as assigned.  If selected, you will become a dynamic member of our skilled team managing a refuge that spans 50-miles of coastline in an area rich with partnerships. Deadline to apply: March 25, 2026

Once filled, the position is funded for 6 months and may be renewable after that.

One full-time (6-month appointment) avian wildlife biologist (biologist) is needed (primarily) to support the USFWS coastal bird (piping plover, least tern and saltmarsh sparrow) conservation program stationed at Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine.  The biologist will also implement, monitor and help plan salt marsh restoration projects and conduct other biological work as assigned.

Primary duties consist of:

• Censusing a variety of beach nesting birds, nest searching, monitoring productivity from egg laying to fledgling, erecting predator exclosures, posting and maintaining symbolic fencing, re-sighting and recording band codes.
• Leading coastal and tidal marsh bird management and monitoring and data entry.  
• The successful applicant will lead and coordinate the work of up to 4 interns and/or partner employees.
• Providing public outreach and education related to beach-obligate and tidal marsh birds.
• Conducting point count surveys for New England tidal marsh birds.
• Assisting with mist netting and banding of tidal marsh sparrows and nest searching.
• Monitoring salt marsh vegetation, salt marsh platform elevation and hydrology.
• Data capture, storage and analysis.
• Report writing.
• Refuge management duties include issuing Special Use Permits as needed to partners, supporting priority public use activities (Hunting, Fishing, Wildlife Observation, Photography, Environmental Education and Interpretation) and light maintenance.  

This position requires a strong interest in birds, coastal ecology and a sincere enthusiasm for field work. The biologist must be able to lead and coordinate the work of small groups of interns, work independently with minimal supervision, follow written protocols, be attentive to details, accurately complete datasheets, and communicate with senior staff members. The biologist should expect to be in the field for at least a portion of each day and to conduct work in difficult outdoor conditions and environments (harsh sunlight to rain, firm to unstable footing, moist soil to hip deep water), carry moderate loads (30-50 pounds), use hand tools, and be exposed to high humidity and biting insects for prolonged periods. Applicants must identify New England birds and coastal/estuarine plants using prior knowledge. The successful candidate will have prior experience using ArcGIS Pro to create maps and view spatial data. The successful applicant will also possess basic statistical, GPS, and GIS knowledge. You may be required to work some weekends or holidays and must possess a valid driver’s license.

For more information about the Refuge visit Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

General requirements:

• U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
• Valid state driver’s license.
• Ability to band songbirds independently and sufficient prior experience with mist netting and bird handling to successfully apply for a USGS bird banding sub permit.
• Must be able to work independently; must have good observational and communication skills.
• Schedule flexibility, including possible weekends, holidays, and morning/evening shifts.
• 40-hour work week – no overtime or holiday pay will be authorized. 
• Willingness to follow federal policies and guidance.

Benefits:

• Salary = approximately $42 per hour; no overtime will be authorized.
• Professional development, training, and networking opportunities.
• Work vehicle and equipment provided.

How to Apply:

Email application package as a single .PDF file to [email protected]  by Close of Business March 25, 2026, that includes:

Email subject line: RCNWR Avian Wildlife Biologist application. 

1. Optional COVER LETTER that addresses the listed qualifications for the position of interest
2. Required: RESUME documenting your work experience, education, skills, interests, contact information, etc.
3. Required: Contact information for three professional REFERENCES (must include email and phone number for each reference).
4. Required: Unofficial copy of current college TRANSCRIPTS.

• Candidates must be willing to participate in a Microsoft Teams interview.