Avian Conservation Biologist, Gulf Coast Bird Observatory

Position Overview

Application Deadline: July 1, 2026

Salary: $40,000 per year, paid monthly

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, environmental science, or a related natural history discipline

Experience Required: At least one year

Description

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is hiring a full-time, permanent Avian Conservation Biologist on the upper Texas coast in Lake Jackson, paying $40,000 per year, with applications closing 1 July 2026 and a start date after 30 September 2026.

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory (GCBO) is an independent non-profit organisation recognised as an innovative conservation group, designing and conducting large avian conservation projects including migration studies, habitat enhancement, land acquisition, and regional habitat mapping. GCBO accumulates, assesses, and distributes high-quality bird population and conservation information that provides a scientific basis for the protection of birds and their habitats around the Gulf of Mexico and beyond.

The Avian Conservation Biologist leads the Beach-nesting Bird and Non-breeding Shorebird monitoring programs and assists with all research programs at the observatory, reporting to the Conservation Research Director.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the main field biologist for the Beach-nesting Birds Project, monitoring nesting Wilson’s and Snowy Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers; erecting and maintaining symbolic fencing and signage; and performing stewardship activities.
• Capture and band Black Skimmer and Wilson’s Plover adults and chicks.
• Serve as the main field biologist for the Non-breeding Shorebirds Project, conducting transect surveys along beach and back dunes for wintering shorebirds and maintaining protective fencing and signage around roosting areas.
• Coordinate all project activities with GCBO staff, funders, and partners.
• Complete field paperwork and enter data into the online database.
• Compile quarterly, mid-season, and end-of-season reports to meet internal and partner deadlines.
• Track and maintain vehicle mileage logs and receipts for submission to the Conservation Research Director for grant reporting and budgeting.
• Train and supervise summer technician and fall, spring, and summer interns.
• Participate in outreach events, partner meetings, bird festivals, and fundraisers.
• Assist with Motus station maintenance and replacement, American Oystercatcher and Black Skimmer monitoring via boat, hawk watch, and other projects as they arise.
• Give outreach and research presentations to partners, local communities, Master Naturalists, and other groups as needed.
• Assist the Conservation Research Director with grant proposals for future research and conservation projects.
• Maintain gear and equipment; assist with onsite GCBO events, grounds maintenance, and day-to-day needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, environmental science, or a related natural history discipline.
• Good understanding of waterbird and shorebird monitoring, with previous experience monitoring and banding nesting shorebirds.
• Demonstrated proficiency conducting shorebird surveys by sight and sound.
• Ability to start work promptly at various times, including before sunrise.
• Physical and mental ability to work in all weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, humidity, strong winds, rain, and storms) and in areas with biting insects and venomous snakes.
• Excellent organisational skills, conscientious data entry and management, and good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Skill with personal computers, including Microsoft Office and Google Earth.
• Ability to coordinate with co-workers, funders, and agency personnel.
• Ability to build and maintain good partnerships.
• Ability to exercise initiative and work both independently and as a team member.
• Valid Texas driver’s licence (or ability to obtain one) with a good driving record and background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating a UTV and 4WD vehicle on sand.
• Ability to lift and carry at least 30 lbs.
• Experience using spotting scopes and cameras.
• Experience managing large datasets and with project administration.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience giving research and outreach presentations.

Additional Notes

• Full-time, permanent role at 35 to 40 hours per week, based in Lake Jackson, Texas.
• Start date after 30 September 2026.
• Health insurance covered at 75% of cost; cell phone allowance provided.
• Paid time off and holidays included.
• Temporary housing can be provided onsite at GCBO headquarters during the transition period.
• Vehicle for all work-related travel is provided.
• Application review begins in late June.

How to Apply

Email a complete application package to Dr. Rebecca Bracken at rbracken@gcbo.org by 1 July 2026.

Required application materials:

• Signed cover letter.
• CV or resume.
• Names, affiliations, phone numbers, and email addresses for at least three professional references.