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 leading creative education, outreach, and communication efforts associated with our research projects. This position is 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 leading bird walks and community programs, (3) supervising and mentoring youth and teens in field research, and (4) 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: training volunteers and citizen scientists, 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 on the refuge, care and maintenance of field equipment. Responsibilities are expected to break down as follows: education, outreach, and community interaction (70%); research and monitoring (20%); data entry and logistics (10%).

Status & Compensation: Seasonal. Hours are variable, average 35 hours/week, April 1 – September 30, 2022. Start and end dates are somewhat flexible. $16-$18/hour, depending on experience. Housing is not provided, however, ASI can provide assistance in finding low-cost housing options.

Minimum Qualifications: Successful candidates must be passionate about sharing the wonder of Alaska’s birds with diverse audiences, have a genuine desire to gain experience working in a community-based, integrated research/education model, as well as the following:

• 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 a variety of digital communication and media platforms such as wordpress, ArcGIS storymaps, social media platforms, and YouTub

Download the full job announcement including detailed responsibilities and application instructions. 

How 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, and answer this question: If you were a bird, which one would you be? Applications will be reviewed as received.

The position will be filled as soon as possible so we recommend applying promptly. We welcome any questions you may have about ASI, our community, and the position. Please direct them to the email address above.