Morning Flight Counter- Block Island

Position Overview

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), Division of Fish and Wildlife, is seeking a skilled and motivated Seasonal Migration Counter to conduct fall morning flight monitoring on Block Island, RI. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to migration research at one of the premier migration hotspots in the eastern U.S., renowned for its epic fallouts and long history of banding and research. The selected technician will be responsible for daily monitoring of migrating passerines, raptors, and waterbirds at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. Data collected by the technician will contribute directly to ongoing offshore displacement modeling efforts to inform state and regional wildlife management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily counts of migrating passerines, raptors, and waterbirds from the North Lighthouse at the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge


• Record data following established protocols


• Maintain accurate and organized digital records


• Produce seasonal reports


• Commitment to a 35-hour work week

Qualifications

Required:

• Strong, demonstrated proficiency in identifying passerines, waterbirds, and raptors in flight. Applicants who cannot demonstrate proven proficiency in identifying passerines in flight will not be considered.


• Current enrollment in or completion of a degree in a natural resources-related field, OR equivalent professional/field experience


• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle


• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail


• Willingness to work early mornings and in variable weather conditions

Preferred:

• Prior field experience at a migration monitoring station (e.g., morning flight count, hawkwatch, seawatch)


• Familiarity with standardized migration count protocols

Compensation & Benefits

$577.50 per week

Housing is provided on Block Island for the duration of the position

Opportunity to live and work at one of the most dynamic migration sites on the East Coast

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter and resume via email to the contact below no later than June 1, 2026. Please include “Morning Flight Counter Position” in the title. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged.

Contact:

Sam Miller

Rhode Island DEM, Division of Fish and Wildlife

[email protected]