Field Biologist

About the role

The Field Biologist will be part of the Conservation & Research Department team within the Southeastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, working under the direction of the Field Botany Program Manager to assist with many of the Department’s field projects.

Responsibilities

• Fieldwork and Project Management:
  • Plan and execute day-to-day fieldwork activities to achieve project goals with minimal supervision
  • Prepare digital maps, data collection tools, and field equipment for trips
• Sample Collection and Monitoring:
  • Follow departmental protocols to collect seeds, pollen, leaf tissue, and herbarium vouchers
  • Conduct single and multi-day travel to field sites across the Southeast to monitor rare plant populations
  • Survey and document key in situ populations of rare and endangered plants
• Data Management and Analysis:
  • Accurately record field observations and experimental data in departmental databases
  • Perform regular data validation and address inconsistencies promptly
  • Analyze experimental data using R and Excel, and generate reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications
• Collaboration and Partner Engagement:
  • Support the Field Botany Manager in coordinating with local and regional partners to conduct monitoring and data collection for shared conservation projects
  • Prepare and deliver customized reports summarizing project outcomes for partners
• Permitting and Compliance:
  • Manage permitting requirements and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
  • Maintain organized records of permits and project documentation
• Safety and Training:
  • Ensure all field activities adhere to safety protocols
  • Participate in and contribute to staff training initiatives as needed
• Drone and Equipment Management (Highly Preferred but not required):
  • Pilot drone equipment for field monitoring and research documentation; organize and manage associated photo/video data
  • Track, organize, and maintain Conservation & Research Department equipment, supplies, and vehicles

Requirements

• Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, Botany, Ecology, or related field required; master’s degree preferred
  • Minimum of two years of post-degree fieldwork experience required
• Technical Skills:
  • Familiarity with the southeastern U.S. natural communities and flora
  • Proficiency in ArcGIS for mapping and data analysis
  • Competency in statistical analysis using R and data management in Excel
  • Ability to use a dichotomous key to identify plants
  • Basic understanding of ecological sampling methodologies
• Licenses and Certifications:
  • Valid Georgia driver’s license in good standing
  • Preferred but not required: FAA Part 107 drone license (required within the first year of employment)
• Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to hike long distances across challenging terrain, including dense woods, wetland areas, and steep ravines
  • Comfortable with extended exposure to outdoor elements, including heat, sun, humidity, ticks, and wet conditions
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. safely
• Mental Requirements:
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing circumstances, and meet tight deadlines
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with partners, the public, and team members
  • Flexibility to switch between projects as priorities shift

Core Values

• Conservation: We value natural resources and ecosystems, making choices with the long-term sustainability of our planet in mind
• Excellence: We hold ourselves to high standards and expect commitment from each other to contribute to a positive image and reputation for the Garden
• Inspiration: We inspire through the creation of an environment that supports imagination and expression of beauty, providing joy, delight, and a deeper appreciation of plants for everyone
• Integrity: We demonstrate honesty, transparency, accountability, trustworthiness, and ethical behavior, exercising good judgment in our actions and communication
• Respect: We value the diversity of our coworkers, volunteers, and guests, holding each other in the highest regard