Science Educator/Communication Specialist

Who we are: The Alaska Songbird Institute (ASI) is a nonprofit organization based at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge in Fairbanks, Alaska. Our mission is to conserve Alaska’s boreal songbirds and their habitats through research and education. Our long-term avian research projects (30+ years) utilize a community-based model. They are open to the general public, and students, teachers, and community volunteers of all ages are involved throughout the research process. ASI strives to integrate diverse voices and perspectives committed to our shared vision and values throughout everything we do.

Position Description: ASI’s Science Educator/Communication Specialist is tasked with creating and leading leading innovative education, outreach, and communication efforts associated with our research projects. This position will be an integral part of a team including biologists, K-12 teachers, volunteers, youth and teens working together to conserve Alaska’s boreal birds through integrated education and research efforts.  

Responsibilities: The core responsibilities of this position include: (1) scheduling & leading K-12 field trips, including pre and post visit support for teachers (2) designing and facilitating community programs and events, (3) mentoring youth and teens in field research, (4) recruiting, training and supporting volunteers of all ages; and (5) developing creative outreach, virtual programming, and social media content to build awareness of ASI, share our research with the public, and inspire appreciation of birds and conservation action. Additional responsibilities include: greeting independent visitors to ASI projects, supporting field researchers in mist netting, bird banding, and nest monitoring, entering/proofing data, representing ASI at community events, care and maintenance of field equipment. Responsibilities are expected to break down as follows: education and outreach (70%); research and monitoring (25%); data entry and logistics (5%).  

Qualifications:  

• Bachelor's degree in education, ecology, or related field
• Experience creating and teaching experiential outdoor/science/conservation education programs
• Significant experience working with youth and teens
• Skilled in digital communication and media platforms  
• Familiar with communication tools and methods to meet the needs of diverse audiences  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Knowledge of boreal ecology and avian research and conservation is preferred but not required 
• First Aid & CPR certified (training provided if necessary)
• ASI’s Policy for Working with Youth requires the ability to pass a background check  
• Experience with mist netting, bird banding, and/or nest monitoring is a plus but not required.

Successful candidates must possess a demonstrated interest in ornithology, science education and communication, a strong work ethic, meticulous approach to collecting and recording data, a passion for sharing the wonder of birds and Alaska with diverse audiences, and a genuine desire to worki in a communitybased, integrated research/education model. You must be self-motivated, have strong communication skills, and be able to thrive in a highly collaborative setting. This position requires many early mornings and weekend days, as well as the flexibility to adapt to a work schedule that is dependent upon birds, changing weather, and field logistics. You must be able to make common sense decisions concerning wildlife interactions (e.g., moose, bear) and be confident and positive leading adults, youth, and teens in exploring and connecting with the natural world in all kinds of weather and field conditions.  Physical Demands: Bird banding, mist netting, and nest monitoring require good manual dexterity and eyesight and involve long periods of being on your feet with few or no breaks. Successful candidates must be able to access all mist nets and nest boxes, and travel with groups of youth, teens, and adults throughout the study areas. This will require walking through waist deep water and vegetation, carrying a backpack with gear (~25lbs), stepping over logs and fences, crossing uneven terrain, riding a bicycle, and carrying heavy objects in high levels of insect activity and inclement weather conditions. Essential gear such as waders provided.  

Status & Compensation: Seasonal. Hours are variable, average 35 hours/week, April 1 – September 30, 2023. Start and end dates are flexible. Early mornings and weekend work required. $18-20/hour, depending on experience. One week of paid leave. Housing is not provided, however, ASI can provide assistance in finding low-cost housing options in the Fairbanks area.  

TO APPLY: Please submit a cover letter, résumé, and three references with complete contact information as a single document to: director@aksongbird.org. Please use your cover letter to address the knowledge, skills, and attributes that would make you a great fit for our organization and this position. Please also share what motivates and inspires you as an educator. Applications will be reviewed as received, and the position will be filled as soon as the right person is found! We recommend applying promptly. We welcome any questions you may have about ASI, our amazing Fairbanks community, and the position. Please direct them to the email address above.