Field Technician - Ornithology

Field Technician – Ornithology

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

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.

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

South Carolina Retirement - No

State Insurance Programs - No

Annual Leave - No

Sick Leave - No

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Number of Vacancies - 1

Desired Start Date - 05/01/2026

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.

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.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Ornithology, or related field?
   • Yes
   • No
2. * Do you have Field research experience?
   • Yes
   • No
3. * Do you have boater safety awareness?
   • Yes
   • No
4. * Are you able to work in remote environments?
   • Yes
   • No

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume

Optional Documents

1. Other Supporting Documents