Field Biologist

Atlanta Botanical Garden Inc; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

The Field Biologist at Atlanta Botanical Garden Inc. will join the Conservation & Research Department’s southeastern Center for Conservation, supporting field projects under the Field Botany Program Manager and coordinating with regional partners.

Core duties include planning and executing fieldwork, sample collection, data management in Excel and R, and ArcGIS mapping. Requirements: bachelor’s in biology/botany/ecology, 2+ years post‑degree field experience, GA driver’s license; master’s

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, Botany, Ecology, or related field is required.
• Minimum two years of post-degree fieldwork experience.
• Familiarity with southeastern U.S. flora and habitats.
• GA driver's license required; drone license preferred within first year.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute day-to-day fieldwork to meet project goals with minimal supervision.
• Prepare maps, data collection tools, and field equipment for trips.
• Collect seeds, pollen, leaf tissue, and herbarium vouchers per protocols.
• Record observations and data in departmental databases; validate data routinely.
• Analyze data using R and Excel; generate reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with local/regional partners; deliver customized project reports.
• Manage permitting and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Adhere to safety protocols and participate in staff training.
• Drone operations and equipment management (preferred).

Skills

Dichotomous key

Ecological sampling

Attention to detail

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology/Botany/Ecology

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

ArcGIS

R

Excel

Job description

Description

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.

Key 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
• Have a GA driver’s license or the ability to drive and obtain a valid GA license
• 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

The above job duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work for employees in this position, but this is not intended as an exclusive or all-inclusive inventory of all duties required of employees in this job.

It is the policy of the Atlanta Botanical Garden to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Atlanta Botanical Garden 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