Date posted: Jan. 17, 2025

FIELD TECHNICIAN – TECHNOLOGY AND MACHINE LEARNING FOCUS

Start Date: April 28th or May 5th, 2025 (flexible)

Length: 18 weeks

Wage: $16-$18 (depending on experience and funding)

Reports to: Stewardship Department

ROLE SUMMARY

The Field Technician plays a key role in advancing Nature Trust’s conservation efforts through technology and data analysis. This position will focus on analyzing and interpreting audio data for species identification using machine learning tools and other technologies, contributing to stewardship projects such as Species at Risk monitoring. In addition, the technician will perform fieldwork duties, including ecological surveys, habitat assessments, data management, and outreach to landholders and stewards. This position combines cutting-edge technology with practical conservation fieldwork, offering opportunities to develop skills in machine learning, data interpretation, and GIS mapping while engaging directly in land conservation efforts.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Technology and Data Analysis:

  • Analyze and interpret audio data collected from remote field recording devices to identify species, particularly Species at Risk.

  • Assist in developing machine learning models for automated species detection and identification.

  • Manage, clean, and organize large datasets, ensuring accuracy and consistency in audio and ecological data.

  • Collaborate with project partners and researchers to integrate technology solutions into conservation strategies.

Fieldwork and Conservation:

  • Deploy, maintain, and troubleshoot field recording equipment and other monitoring devices.

  • Plan and conduct field surveys and habitat assessments on nature preserves and potential conservation lands.

  • Perform monitoring visits and report on habitat conditions, wildlife observations, and stewardship needs.

  • Compile, analyze, and manage field survey data and prepare detailed technical reports (e.g., baseline documentation, monitoring reports).

  • Assist with conservation and stewardship projects, including ecological restoration, habitat enhancement, and integrating technology for monitoring and management.

  • Prepare and update spatial maps and datasets using GIS software.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE

  • Currently enrolled or graduated from a post-secondary program in Environmental Science, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field. Equivalent work experience will also be considered.

  • Experience working with audio analysis tools or machine learning frameworks for species identification (e.g., Raven Pro, Python libraries, PowerShell scripting, R programming language, TensorFlow, or similar platforms).

  • Proficiency in managing and analyzing large datasets with attention to accuracy.

  • Experience using GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) to create and manage spatial data.

  • Familiarity with field equipment (e.g., audio recorders, GPS units, and remote monitoring tools) is an asset.

  • Familiarity with bird calls and bird identification is considered an asset.

  • Strong fieldwork experience, including environmental data collection and ecological land classification.

  • Ability to identify flora and fauna of New Brunswick; knowledge of Species at Risk is an asset.

  • Physically fit and willing to work in challenging conditions, including long hours, overnight trips, and varied weather.

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage data and multiple projects efficiently.

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

  • Experience with public outreach and community engagement is an asset.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Nature Trust offers an inclusive workplace, in which all staff are treated equally and with respect, and a vibrant work culture defined by a shared vision of a healthy future for both the lands and citizens of New Brunswick. The work is office-based with outdoor fieldwork required from April-October. The Field Technician must be willing to travel for field work, and may be required to work flexible hours, including overnight trips to remote areas of the province. Field work will require the Field Technician to be physically fit and willing to work in unfavorable conditions at times.

APPLICATION SUBMISSION

Please submit a resume and cover letter to info@ntnb.org by February 17th, 2025.