Overview
Bird Ecology and Conservation Ontario (BECO) is seeking a highly motivated and experienced biologist to assist with grassland bird research in agricultural landscapes. BECO is a non-profit organization that uses ecological research to advance the conservation of birds in Ontario. This project is focused on monitoring nesting eastern meadowlarks, bobolinks, and grasshopper sparrows.
Start date: 13 April 2026
Position duration: 8 to 12 months, depending on funding and experience
Tasks and responsibilities:
• Assisting with field season preparations (e.g., initial site visits, review of field protocols)
• Surveys in grassland to assess the distribution and abundance of bobolink, eastern meadowlark, and grasshopper sparrow, and record other bird species
• Searching for and monitoring bobolink, eastern meadowlark, and grasshopper sparrow nests
• Spot mapping and behavioural observations
• Collecting vegetation data
• Data entry, proofing, and management using Microsoft Access and QGIS
• Landowner communication
• Written project summaries and updates, as required
• Summarizing data for various purposes (e.g., scientific analysis, educational resources)
• Data analysis using R
• Producing reports using Microsoft Office, rmarkdown in RStudio, and other software
• Assisting with other field work and program tasks, as required (e.g., mist net capture and banding, presentations and other outreach initiatives, funding proposals)
Qualifications:
• Strong interest in avian ecology and wildlife conservation
• Excellent auditory and visual bird identification skills and familiarity with grassland bird species in southern Ontario
• Experience with nest searching and nest monitoring; preference will be given to candidates who have experience searching for cryptic nests in grasslands (grassland bird nests can be particularly challenging to find)
• Experience navigating in the field using a handheld GPS unit and familiarity with GIS software
• Keen attention to detail and strong organizational and record keeping abilities
• Self-motivated and dependable, with a strong work ethic, a strong interest in fieldwork, and a sense of personal responsibility
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment, as well as flexibility to adapt to a changing work schedule
• Comfortable working early mornings and in field conditions that can be physically demanding and challenging (several hours of walking each day, variable weather, biting insects). Additionally, a significant amount of patience is required for nest searching.
• Comfortable working on farms and around farm animals (e.g., cattle, farm dogs) and the ability to work in environments with significant amounts of grass pollen
• Valid driver’s licence, good driving record, and access to own vehicle with valid insurance
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to foster and maintain good relationships with various stakeholders
• Experience with data analysis using R and writing technical reports
Preference will be given to candidates who have completed a master’s level degree in wildlife ecology or a related discipline, or have an equivalent amount of research experience. First aid certification is also an asset.
Additional information: Field sites will be located in Grey County, Ontario and the surrounding area. Accommodation near the town of Durham will be provided for the duration of the field season (01 May to ~mid-August). Accommodation will likely be shared and may be basic (e.g., a rustic cabin on a farm with few amenities). Applicants must have access to their own vehicle for the duration of the position. A significant amount of driving will be required to travel to field sites (field sites may be 20 to 40 minutes from housing and driving to multiple field sites in a day may be required). Mileage will be reimbursed.
From mid-May until the end of July, staff will be expected to work 6 days per week. Overtime will be compensated with paid time off in lieu or overtime pay, as required by provincial regulations and funding sources. Candidates must have access to their own accommodation and the ability to work full-time from a home office prior to and following the field season.
Eligibility: All applicants must be legally eligible to work in Canada with a valid Social Insurance Number.
Eligibility for federal youth employment funding is beneficial, but is not required. Please note in your application if you meet the following criteria:
• No more than 30 years of age at the start of employment
• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person granted refugee status in Canada
Candidates who do not meet the federal youth employment funding criteria are still encouraged to apply. We are seeking the best person for this position, regardless of funding eligibility.
Compensation: $3,500 – $3,800 per month, depending on experience and funding. Housing provided during the field season (May through mid-August).
To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Zoé Lebrun-Southcott (zoe@beco-birds.org) with the subject line “Grassland Bird Program Biologist application”. In your cover letter, indicate how you meet the listed qualifications, if you have access to a personal vehicle for the field season, if you meet the eligibility criteria for federal youth employment funding, and your dates of availability. Submit your application as a single PDF or MS Word file. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Application deadline: 25 February 2026
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Early applications are encouraged.
Bird Ecology and Conservation Ontario is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from people of all abilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
