Field Biologist

Botanical Society of America; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

The Atlanta Botanical Garden in Atlanta, GA is seeking a Field Biologist to support the Conservation & Research Department. The role involves planning and executing field projects, collecting seeds and tissue, and preparing maps and data tools for ongoing studies across the Southeast.

Qualifications include a Bachelor's in Biology or related field, 2+ years of field experience, proficiency with ArcGIS, R, and Excel, and a valid Georgia driver’s license; drone license is preferred within the

Qualifications

• 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.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Follow departmental protocols to collect seeds, pollen, leaf tissue, and herbarium vouchers.
• Conduct travel to field sites across the Southeast to monitor rare plant populations.
• Survey and document key in situ populations of rare and endangered plants.
• Record field observations and experimental data in departmental databases; ensure data quality.
• Analyze data using R and Excel; generate reports, presentations, and publications.
• Coordinate with local/regional partners to conduct monitoring and data collection for shared projects.
• Prepare and deliver reports summarizing project outcomes for partners.
• Manage permitting requirements and ensure compliance with regulations; maintain records.
• Ensure field activities adhere to safety protocols; participate in staff training.
• Pilot drone equipment for field monitoring and document data; manage department equipment and vehicles.

Skills

Fieldwork planning

Data collection

Data analysis

Collaboration

Safety protocols

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Botany/Ecology

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

ArcGIS

R

Excel

Drone operation

Job description

Atlanta Botanical Garden - Atlanta, GA, United States

Position Title: Field Biologist

Position Type: Permanent Position

Application Review Begins: Friday, August 07, 2026

Institution: Atlanta Botanical Garden

Department/Division: Conservation and Research

Field (e.g., systematics):

City: Atlanta, GA, United States

General Information: The Field Biologist will be part of the Conservation & Research Department team within the southeastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. They will work under the direction of the Field Botany Program Manager and assist with many of the Department’s field projects.

Qualifications/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).

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:

• 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