MAPS Assistant Bander

Owl Moon Environmental Inc.; Fort McMurray; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental organization is hiring Assistant Banders for summer 2026 in Fort McMurray, Alberta. This role involves supporting bird monitoring stations through mist-net extraction and banding services across several remote locations. Ideal candidates will have prior bird-banding experience, strong bird identification skills, and the ability to work independently as well as with a team. A monthly salary of CA$3,600–CA$3,800, accommodation, food, and travel allowances are provided, along with a bonus upon completion of the season.

Benefits

Monthly payment of CA$3,600–CA$3,800

Food and accommodation provided

Travel allowance or paid travel

Bonus of CA$2,500 upon completion

Qualifications

• Proficient in mist-net extraction and bird identification.
• Prior bird-banding experience required.
• Ability to work independently under supervision.
• Valid driver's license (Alberta Class 5) and clean driving record.
• Eligibility to live and work in Canada.

Responsibilities

• Assist in extraction of birds from mist-nets.
• Provide banding services on six remote MAPS stations.
• Work long field days beginning before dawn.
• Follow directions and adhere to safety requirements.
• Drive vehicles around the banding sites.

Skills

Mist-net extraction

Bird identification by sight and song

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Postgraduate degree in biological sciences or equivalent

Tools

Bird banding equipment

Vehicles (Class 5)

Job description

About the Position

Owl Moon Environmental Inc. (OMEI) is hiring Assistant Banders for the summer 2026 season. The role supports our Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) banding stations, operated with The Institute for Bird Populations. Responsibilities include maintaining and operating remote banding stations in the Fort McMurray region from May 20 to August 8, 2026. The position requires living and working in Canada.

Responsibilities

• Assist in extraction of birds from mist‑nets and handling of banding equipment.
• Provide banding services on six remote MAPS stations near Conklin, Lac la Biche, Cold Lake, and Fort McMurray.
• Work long field days beginning before dawn and maintain a positive team environment.
• Follow directions, adhere to safety requirements, and demonstrate attention to detail.
• Drive vehicles (class 5 licence) around the banding sites; trucks will be provided.

Qualifications

• Proficient in mist‑net extraction and bird identification by sight and song.
• Prior bird‑banding experience is required.
• Ability to work independently and under a senior bander’s supervision.
• Valid driver’s licence (Alberta Class 5) and clean driving record.
• Eligibility to live and work in Canada; international applicants must have a valid Canadian work permit or a postgraduate degree in biological sciences (or equivalent).

Compensation & Benefits

Monthly payment of CA$3,600 – CA$3,800, paid biweekly. Food, accommodation, and a travel allowance (or paid travel) to Fort McMurray are provided. A lump‑sum bonus of CA$2,500 is awarded upon successful completion of the season. No additional health or other benefits are included.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter, résumé, and the names and contact information of three references. Provide a driver’s abstract and an insurance agency letter (or equivalent) showing at least three years of previous vehicle insurance coverage. Applications are accepted until all positions are filled. Contact OMEI Human Resources at [e-mail] for more information.

We thank all applicants for their interest, but only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.