Coastal Steward, Tuckernuck Land Trust

Tuckernuck Island, Massachusetts

The Tuckernuck Land Trust (TLT) seeks a Coastal Steward to live and work on Tuckernuck Island from May to August 2022 (approx. 15 weeks), with the possibility of extension. This 800- acre island is located 25 miles south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and lies just west of Nantucket Island. It supports a distinctive coastal maritime plant and animal community that includes several state- and federally listed species. The Coastal Steward will monitor and protect beach-nesting shorebirds, interact with and provide education for residents and their visitors, and potentially assist visiting scientists with their research. Applicants for this position should be adventurous and have the skills necessary to live and work independently in a semi remote location. Intensive and physical field work is an integral part of this job.

Qualifications

• Candidate should have or be working toward a degree in wildlife biology/management, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Field experience in biological data collection and coastal bird identification and/or their monitoring is strongly preferred; additional training will be provided
• Candidate must possess excellent communication and observational skills
• Candidate must be able to live and work independently at a semi-remote location, to walk long distances daily, to work in less-than-ideal conditions (i.e., mosquitoes, ticks, poison ivy), and to swim proficiently

Additional Information

• 40-hour work week; daily hours vary and are weather-dependent; weekend and holiday work required
• Residence provided, equipped with basic necessities (i.e., water, sleeping loft, kitchen, etc.), including limited power from solar panel and generator
• Limited Internet access provided for communication and reporting
• Biweekly round trips provided, via boat, to access food and supplies on Nantucket Island • Transportation to and from meetings provided

Shorebird Responsibilities

• Locate and monitor Piping Plovers, terns and American Oystercatchers, maintain detailed records of all breeding activities, and complete weekly updates and end-of season reports
• Install and maintain protective fencing and signs in compliance with state and federal guidelines for beach-nesting birds
• Observe and record all color-banded birds and enter sightings in appropriate data base
• Interact in a positive manner with beachgoers and provide information about beach nesting birds and their protection under state and federal regulations
• Document any violations of these regulations and report them to authorities on Nantucket
• Attend regularly scheduled local and regional meetings related to shorebirds

Educational Responsibilities

• Conduct (or assist) and promote weekly educational programs for residents and visitors • Facilitate visiting scientists’ research
• Maintain a small science library
• Promote TLT’s work in the community
• Submit a seasonal report to the TLT Board of Directors at the close of employment

Property Management Responsibilities

• Maintain residence and equipment in good order
• Complete light maintenance as needed on TLT property, including mowing grass
• Welcome and assist visiting scientists and share living quarters for short periods
• Communicate problems and needed repairs to TLT supervisors in a timely manner

This job represents a unique opportunity for a well-qualified candidate. Please send a letter of interest, resume, and three references to both tlt@tuckernucklandtrust.org and ackbird@aol.com. Job inquiries and supporting material must be received by March 4, 2022.

Please note: Work will be conducted in compliance with all applicable COVID-19 regulations, and job responsibilities may be adjusted if necessary.