Position Description

The biologist will contribute to KBO’s growing Informatics and Avian Data Science Program. Biologists provide support for the Avian Knowledge Network, work with partners to scope and develop data-driven decision support tools, and are involved in data analysis, reporting, and publications.  The Avian Knowledge Network is a partnership supported cloud-based data repository that provides both data management and analytical tools. The primary responsibilities of the biologist will be to manage databases and associated metadata to support KBO research and monitoring, to advise program partners on avian survey methodologies and study design, and to provide support and training for data management in the AKN. The biologist will work closely with other members of a team. Depending on qualifications, the biologist may also contribute to study design, statistical analysis, report and manuscript writing, and development of interactive decision support tools.

Job Status

This is a Non-exempt position. Non-exempt employees are subject to minimum wage and overtime requirements and are generally paid on an hourly basis.

About KBO: Klamath Bird Observatory advances bird and habitat conservation through science, education, and partnerships. We use birds as indicators of the healthy and resilient ecosystems on which we all depend. Our program areas reflect the highest conservation priorities for reversing the decline of western bird populations and the habitats on which they depend. Our current applied ecology programs focus on improving management and restoration of conifer forests, oak woodlands, riparian habitats, and alpine meadows. Our theoretical research improves our understanding of historic, current, future population trends of birds in those same ecosystems and studies birds throughout their full annual life cycle to identify the limiting factors that birds face during breeding and non-breeding seasons. We bring our results to bear through science delivery involving partnership driven engagement in conservation planning, informing the critical decisions being made today that will have lasting influences on the health of our natural resources well into the future. Klamath Bird Observatory is striving to maintain and build upon our positive, supportive, and inclusive work culture.

Job Duties

KBO Data Management Support

• Manage databases to support KBO’s research and monitoring projects
• Manage and document metadata for historic and current datasets
• Implement QA/QC procedures and data validation processes
• Provide datasets (to KBO staff and external partners) and assist others in understanding and analysis of data

Partner Data Management Support

• Work closely with KBO partners to provide support for data management in the Avian Knowledge Network
• Format datasets as required by others for bulk uploading, reporting, or analysis
• Recommend survey methods and data structures to partners using the Avian Knowledge Network
• Participate in virtual office hours and Avian Knowledge Network trainings
• Develop user guides, how-to videos, and case studies that demonstrate how to apply the Avian Knowledge Network tools for data management, analysis, and conservation planning

Development of Data Products

• Contribute to analysis and summary of avian data for reporting and publication
• Contribute to project reports and publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Develop GIS products for data analysis and dissemination
• Contribute to the development of web-based data visualizations (e.g. Shiny Apps)
• Ensure timely delivery of project deliverables within the program
• Writes blogs and social media posts
• Development of content for websites

Minimum Qualifications

• Combination of education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in the Natural Sciences and two years of experience and one year of project management.
• Experience in field studies, preferably avian monitoring techniques, and willingness to work as a team member for a growing non-profit organization
• Experience with data entry, QAQC, and database management

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience with avian monitoring methodologies and familiarity with research design
• Experience managing data on multiple platforms including R, ArcGIS, Python, and Microsoft Access
• Experience providing customer support, training, or instruction
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience with interactive web-based tools for analysis and decision support (e.g. Shiny Apps, ArcGIS online, Google Earth Engine)

Knowledge of avian natural history and ecology

• Experience with ecological statistics, species distribution modeling and geospatial analysis
• Good oral and written communication skills, including technical science writing
• Understanding of grant writing including foundation, federal, and other funding sources
• Ability to represent KBO to partners and the public

It is Klamath Bird Observatory’s policy to provide a work environment free from unlawful discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, age, expunged juvenile record, performance of duty in a uniformed service, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance. Additional employment opportunities and information about Klamath Bird Observatory can be found at: https://klamathbird.org/about-kbo/careers-and-opportunities/.