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SNOWY PLOVER INTERNSHIP
San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory
San Jose, CA, USA
USD 19.61-19.61 / hour
Posted on Mar 31, 2026
SFBBO seeks one early-career intern (less than three years’ wildlife-related experience) to assist with western snowy plover field studies. Western snowy plovers are federally threatened shorebirds; in the South San Francisco Bay they nest primarily in salt panne in former salt production ponds. Internship runs from April 14 through the end of the plover season (typically mid-to-late September) and is based out of San Jose, CA. Expected to work full days (8–10 hours) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Training and mentorship provided; develop skills in plover surveys, nest monitoring, data management, and bird identification. Duties: Survey plover nesting areas using spotting scopes and binoculars; re-sight color band combinations; conduct avian predator surveys; enter, proof, and manage data. Experience may allow addition to SFBBO’s 10(a)(1)(A) recovery permit for Snowy Plovers. Required Qualifications: Undergraduate/graduate student (or recently graduated) in wildlife biology, environmental science or related field; basic bird ID skills; strong work ethic, organizational skills, attention to detail; valid driver’s license, clean driving record, reliable insured personal vehicle; ability to walk several miles on level ground, traverse deep mud, lift up to 40 lbs, and operate a kayak (launching, hauling out, loading onto trucks); enthusiasm for long field days starting at sunrise; willingness to tolerate harsh field conditions (cold mornings, warm afternoons, mud, sun, dust); patience for sighting cryptic birds at distance using binoculars/spotting scopes; ability to navigate using smartphone maps; ability to work independently and as part of a team; effective oral and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: Advanced bird ID skills; off-road driving experience (SFBBO vehicle provided on levees); first aid certification; solid computer skills including MS Office Suite. Compensation: $19.61/hour. No guaranteed employment or housing. SFBBO vehicle or reimbursement for pre-approved internship-related travel during work hours. All survey equipment supplied (binoculars, spotting scope, tripod, window mount). Not eligible for benefits or paid time off; after 30 days, eligible for 20 hours of sick leave. $40 per pay period phone and Internet stipend in pay periods worked. To Apply: Send a cover letter and resume with three references (names, emails, phone numbers) to Snowy Plover and Least Tern Director, Maddy Schwarz (mschwarz@sfbbo.org).