Field Technician - Ornithology

Posting Details

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Posting Summary


Logo

Posting Number
RTF00089PO26


USC Market Title
Research Specialist


Link to USC Market Title




Business Title (Internal Title)
Field Technician - Ornithology


Campus
Beaufort


Work County
Beaufort


College/Division
USC Beaufort College/Division Level


Department
BFT Natural Sciences


Anticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with experience and education


Location of Vacancy
USC Beaufort supported area


Part/Full Time
Full Time


Hours per Week
40


Work Schedule


Standard working schedule: 8:30am - 5:00pm

Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.

Type of Staff Position
Staff Time-Limited (STL)


Basis
12 months


Job Search Category
Other

About USC


About University of South Carolina


From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

South Carolina Retirement
No


State Insurance Programs
No


Annual Leave
No


Sick Leave
No

Position Description


Advertised Job Summary

Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience


Requires a bachelor's degree in area of research specialty.

Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials

Preferred Qualifications
• Coastal or barrier island field experience
• Small boat operation experience
• Shorebird or seabird monitoring experience

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Must have excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
• Must have ability and willingness to learn new survey and monitoring techniques and follow detailed protocols.
• Must have ability to take initiative and resolve problems to assure tasks are completed in the most effective manner.
• Flexibility and willingness to learn the company's operational and safety procedures are required.
• Ability to work as member of a team, make decisions individually, and complete tasks effectively required.

Job Duties


Job Duty


Conduct systematic avian fieldwork including bird population surveys, nesting monitoring, and habitat assessments to support research, conservation, and management initiatives. Collect, analyze, and report data on species presence, breeding activity, and habitat conditions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with established scientific and regulatory protocols.

Essential Function
Yes


Percentage of Time
45%


Job Duty


Operate and assist with small boats to safely transport personnel and equipment for island-based fieldwork, ensuring compliance with all safety protocols, navigation guidelines, and environmental regulations while supporting research activities in remote coastal locations.

Essential Function
Yes


Percentage of Time
25%


Job Duty


Implement and adhere to established field and boating safety protocols to ensure personnel well-being during research activities, including proper use of safety equipment, compliance with environmental and maritime regulations, and proactive risk management in remote coastal and island environments.

Essential Function
Yes


Percentage of Time
15%


Job Duty


Maintain and manage field equipment and logistics to support avian research activities, including routine inspection, repair, and organization of gear, as well as coordinating supplies and transportation to ensure efficient and uninterrupted field operations in remote environments.

Essential Function
Yes


Percentage of Time
10%


Job Duty


Assist with training and mentoring students and volunteers in field research techniques, including bird surveys, data collection protocols, and proper use of equipment, ensuring adherence to scientific standards and safety procedures while fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Essential Function
Yes


Percentage of Time
5%

Position Attributes


Hazardous weather category
Non-Essential


Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
No

Posting Detail Information


Number of Vacancies
1


Desired Start Date
05/01/2026


Position End Date

Job Open Date
04/23/2026


Job Close Date

Open Until Filled
No


Special Instructions to Applicant


Positions will remain posted on our employment website for a minimum of five (5) business days. After this period, postings may be closed at the department's discretion. Our site is updated regularly, and the length of the recruitment and screening process may vary depending on the position and related factors. If your qualifications are selected for further consideration, you will be contacted directly by phone or email.

The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:

• Health and Life Insurance
• Retirement Programs
• Paid Tuition
• Dependent Scholarships
• Annual Leave
• Sick Leave
• 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
• Paid Parental Leave

Professional Development Opportunities

Quicklink for Posting




EEO Statement


The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.