Ohio Bird Atlas Outreach Specialist

Ohio Bird Atlas 3 Outreach Specialist

Department: FAES | School of Environment and Natural Resources

Ohio will embark on its third statewide breeding bird atlas along with a concurrent winter bird atlas from 2028‑2032. This large‑scale project, entitled the Ohio Bird Atlas 3 (OBA3), will include a participatory science component that will engage thousands of Ohioans in data collection through a custom eBird portal, as well as multiple concurrent research projects that will collect focused data to augment those collected by Atlas participants.

The project will be supported by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources–Division of Wildlife and coordinated in collaboration with The Ohio State University. An Outreach Specialist position is available beginning in August 2026 that will play a key role coordinating partners, as well as the development, delivery, and implementation of the Atlas. The Specialist will oversee all day‑to‑day operations, engage and recruit birders, hire and oversee a small team of seasonal field technicians (approximately 8) annually, all to ensure the collection of high‑quality data on Ohio’s breeding and wintering birds.

Work closely with the OBA3 Steering Committee and members of the Terrestrial Wildlife Ecology Lab at The Ohio State University. Coordinate partners, develop and deliver outreach and training materials, manage a small seasonal staff, meet project timelines, produce reports and dashboards, maintain stakeholder communication, and support data collection and quality management activities.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Experience with participatory/citizen science programs (especially eBird)
• Experience managing and analyzing ecological databases (Excel, Access or other database applications, and R)
• Strong understanding of the status, distribution and ecology of Eastern birds and ability to identify birds by sight and sound
• Experience with GIS (preferably ArcGIS)
• Proven project management and coordination skills, including prioritization, meeting timelines, multitasking, and delegation
• Experience producing reports, dashboards, and summary materials for stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and communicate responsively in public‑facing situations
• Proficient written and verbal communication, including public presentations and technical writing
• Ability to work independently or with minimal supervision
• Ability to supervise a small team of seasonal field technicians and Atlas coordinators
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout Ohio
• Ability to conduct limited fieldwork in variable outdoor conditions (early morning, evening, or weekend)

• Master’s Degree in ecology, wildlife science, or a closely related field
• Two or more years of 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 or Eastern United States
• Familiarity with atlas methodologies
• Experience navigating with a map and compass in a variety of field conditions

Position Type:
Regular
Scheduled

Hours:

40 per week

Shift: First Shift

Location:

Kottman Hall (0340)
Applicants will be subject to a background check and may undergo a drug screen or physical during the post‑offer process.

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