Field Assistant - Warbler Mist-Netting Project - Toews Lab

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• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Location: Adirondack Park, New York
Duration: 1-20 June 2026
Job Type: Temporary / Seasonal
Compensation: Depending on Experience

Application Deadline: March 15, 2026

Job Description

The Toews Lab at Pennsylvania State University seeks one highly motivated undergraduate field assistant to support mist-netting operations targeting wood-warblers in Adirondack Park, NY from 1-20 June 2026.

The position will be supervised in the field by Dr. Luis Daniel Montalvo (Postdoctoral Researcher).

Primary responsibilities include:

• Assisting with daily mist-net setup and takedown
• Monitoring mist nets under supervision
• Recording field data
• Organizing and transporting field equipment
• Supporting daily field logistics
• Maintaining strict adherence to field safety and research protocols

This position does not require experience in bird handling or banding, and this will not be expected, though training will be provided if requested.

Field Conditions

Fieldwork will take place on public lands in remote forest environments.

Living accommodations will consist primarily of rustic camping (tents) at field sites , with limited amenities. A small number of nights may be spent in indoor lodging. Applicants must be comfortable:

• Camping for extended periods
• Working in cold early mornings, rain, heat, and high humidity
• Dealing with biting insects (black flies and mosquitoes)
• Waking before sunrise daily
• Working long hours outdoors

Required Qualifications

• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• Excellent physical stamina and ability to:
  • Walk several miles daily over uneven terrain
  • Carry field equipment (20-40 lbs)
  • Work extended hours outdoors in challenging conditions
• Ability to carefully follow detailed field protocols
• Strong attention to detail
• Reliability and professionalism

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)

• Previous fieldwork experience
• Prior camping experience
• Experience hiking or backpacking
• Basic bird identification skills

Ideal Candidate

We are seeking someone who:

• Is highly dependable
• Maintains a positive attitude under physically demanding and rustic conditions
• Works well in a small team setting
• Listens carefully and follows instructions precisely
• Has a strong interest in avian field research

This position provides hands-on experience in avian ecological research and exposure to professional mist-netting operations.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

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