Hawk Watch Counter

Pottawattamie County•Honey Creek, IA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Pottawattamie County Conservation is hiring for Hawk Watch Counter. This temporary, non-exempt position is responsible for identifying and counting migrating raptors, preparing reports, and assisting with bird-related environmental education at the Hitchcock Nature Center. The program operates from September 1 through December 13.

Requirements

Knowledge of and the ability to learn migration patterns of raptors, and related birds.
Considerable skill in the identification of migrating birds in flight.
Ability to work long days and early morning starts, if situation presents itself.
Ability to climb stairs and perform job duties on the top level of the 45’ observation tower.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in written format.
Ability to convey enthusiasm and positive energy about bird watching and the environment to the general public.
Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.
Ability to accurately prepare and maintain basic departmental records and reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteer hawkwatchers, various civic organizations, and the general public.
Ability to work independently and in remote areas of county parks.
Knowledge of and/or the ability to learn how to accurately identify migrating raptors and other birds through field markings, flight and migratory patterns, vocalizations, and other distinguishing characteristics.

Responsibilities

Identify and count migrating raptors.
Document bird migration counts, patterns, etc. and prepare accurate reports of activities.
Maintain appropriate records and files of bird observations.
Coordinate volunteer schedules.
Assist in designing and setting up information displays relevant to program.
Assist in writing articles for departmental website, brochures and newsletters relating to bird migration and activities.
Assist in planning and presenting bird-related environmental education to various groups and individuals including, but not limited to schools, scouts, summer camp, special events and the general public.
Respond to public and governmental inquiries for information contained in bird records, as appropriate.
Assist general public and co-workers in bird identification and answer questions relating to migration patterns.
Perform other functions as directed or as the situation dictates.