Ohio Bird Atlas Outreach Specialist

Job Title: Ohio Bird Atlas 3 Outreach Specialist

Department: FAES | School of Environment and Natural Resources

Ohio will embark on its third statewide breeding bird atlas (OBA3) from . The project, developed in partnership with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources–Division of Wildlife and coordinated with The Ohio State University, involves a participatory science component that engages Ohioans in data collection via a custom eBird portal and multiple concurrent research projects to augment the data.

The Outreach Specialist will play a key role in coordinating partners, and in the development, delivery, and implementation of the Atlas. The specialist will oversee day‑to‑day operations, recruit and engage birders, and hire and supervise a small team of approximately eight seasonal field technicians annually to ensure the collection of high‑quality data on Ohio’s breeding and wintering birds.

The successful applicant will work closely with the OBA3 Steering Committee and members of the Terrestrial Wildlife Ecology Lab at The Ohio State University. The desired start date is August 1, 2026, to provide sufficient time to prepare the Atlas for the launch of data collection in December 2027. Funding for this position is anticipated through 2035 to complete the publication of atlas results.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and 0 years’ experience
• Experience with participatory/citizen science programs (especially eBird)
• Experience managing and analyzing ecological databases, including Excel, Access (or other database applications), and Program R
• Strong understanding of the status, distribution, and ecology of Eastern birds, with proficiency in identifying regional birds by sight and sound
• Experience with GIS (preferably ArcGIS)
• Proven project management and coordination skills, including prioritizing activities, meeting timelines, multitasking, and delegating tasks as needed
• Experience producing reports, dashboards, and summary materials for stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate, communicate responsively, and conduct themselves professionally in public‑facing situations
• Proven written and verbal communication skills, including public presentations and writing for general and technical audiences
• Ability to work independently or with minimal supervision
• Ability to supervise a small team of seasonal field technicians and Atlas coordinators
• Ability to travel throughout Ohio as needed; must have a valid driver’s license
• Ability to conduct limited fieldwork in variable outdoor conditions and terrain, including early morning, evening, or weekend activities

• Master’s degree in ecology, wildlife science, or a closely related field
• At least 2 years’ experience in ecology, wildlife science, or a closely related field
• Experience with website and newsletter management
• Ability to foster collaborative relationships with partner agencies, organizations, and individuals
• Connections within the birding community, preferably in the Midwest and/or Eastern US
• Familiarity with atlas methodologies
• Experience navigating with a map and compass in a variety of field conditions

Location: Kottman Hall (0340) – 1st Shift, Regular Position, 40 scheduled hours per week

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post‑offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.