Government
Published 1/15/26 9:39AM

Raptor Monitor

On-site, Volunteer must be in or near Golden, CO
I Want to Help


  • Details

    Available Times:
    Weekdays (daytime), Weekends (daytime)
    Time Commitment:
    A few hours per month
    Commitment Details:
    Volunteers must be able to monitor a site at least twice a month between February and August. Monitoring can be performed anytime during daylight hours, but mornings are often best for observing raptors. Each shift can take up to three hours.
    Recurrence:
    Recurring
    Cause Areas:
    Animals, Climate Change, Environment & Sustainability, Volunteering
    Benefits:
    Training Provided
    Good For:
    Teens, Age 55+
    Participation Requirements:
    Background Check, Attend Orientation
    Wheelchair Accessible

    Description

    Raptor Monitor

    Summary of Position

    Volunteers assist the Natural Resources Team in identifying and monitoring raptors in selected JCPOS Parks. Raptor Monitors help determine the success of a nest or eyrie. Record observations of Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Prairie Falcons, Peregrine Falcons, and Great Horned Owls and enable the Natural Resources Team to develop appropriate management plans related to habitat protection.

    Duties

    Monitors known nest sites to determine territory use and nest success

    Attempts to identify new nests and eyries to include in observations

    Records observations and enters data electronically

    Reports volunteer service hours regularly through the online reporting system, Offero

    Requirements

    Attend JCPOS New Volunteer Orientation and Raptor Monitor Program training sessions

    Have general knowledge of Western U.S. Raptors

    Ability to work independently, sometimes in remote locations, often from the side of roads or highways

    Supply your own appropriate clothing and gear and be prepared to be outdoors for an extended period

    Volunteers must abide by the JCPOS Park Regulations and established volunteer policies and procedures outlined in the JCPOS Volunteer Handbook

    Ability to provide your own spotting scope or binoculars, read maps and ability to use a compass is a plus

    Benefits

    Utilize and enhance birding skills and meet other birders

    Explore the JCPOS Park System

    Location

    On-site

    Jefferson County Parks & Open Space

    700 Jefferson County Pkwy #100, Golden, CO 80401, USA
    Directions

    *Park locations will vary

    How to Volunteer for This Opportunity

    Next Steps

    1. Create an Account and Submit an Application
      1. Applications are available online at: https://offero.jeffco.us/getinvolved
    2. Submit a background check
    3. Attend an Interview
      1. All prospective volunteers will be interviewed. Once you submit your application, you will be contacted to arrange for your interview.
    4. Attend New Volunteer Orientation
      1. All new volunteers are required to attend New Volunteer Orientation at JCPOS Headquarters to become familiar with the entire JCPOS system prior to specific program training. You must pre-register for orientation on Offero. Registration links are provided upon receipt of your application.
    5. Attend Program Specific Training
      1. JCPOS staff will provide training in observation techniques, data recording and entry, raptor identification, and will assign monitoring locations. Training is hosted at JCPOS Headquarters and may include a visit to a nearby nest to practice observation techniques. March 7, 2026 8:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. JCPOS Headquarters, Ponderosa Room
    6. Start volunteering!
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