Description

Bird sound identification technicians: Validating bird species IDs from Autonomous Recording Unit data

Conservation Science Partners is seeking three to four experienced birders with expertise in acoustic identification of California bird species to assist, on a contract basis, in a short-term project validating species IDs from audio recordings of bird calls and songs. Audio was collected from hundreds of Autonomous Recording Units deployed across all terrestrial ecosystem types in the state of California as part of a large scale effort to monitor avian diversity in the state, and raw audio files have been processed using a machine learning algorithm (BirdNET) to detect bird sounds and assign (provisional) species IDs. Because BirdNET frequently misidentifies challenging bird sounds and mimicry, human validation will help improve accuracy of BirdNET’s results. The research technician(s) will be responsible for validating a large subset of BirdNET IDs by listening to the corresponding audio clip and confirming whether the assigned species ID is correct or not. The resulting validation datasets compiled by the research technician(s) will be used to develop avian community dynamics and habitat models that will inform statewide bird conservation and management efforts by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 

This work requires excellent knowledge of California bird sounds, ability to quickly master new sound identification challenges, and a high level of attention to detail. Top applicants will be asked to take a skills test to confirm their level of California bird expertise. This is a contract-based opportunity. Work will take place entirely remotely and work times can be highly flexible to accommodate the technician’s schedule. 

Contractor qualifications

Excellent knowledge of California bird sounds and ability to identify species from across the state by sound alone
A computer with internet access and sufficiently high bandwidth to stream audio files hosted on the cloud
Capacity for self-directed, independent work and the ability to meet project deadlines

Details of opportunity

Compensation: $25-30/hour, depending on experience
Duration: 3 to 6 month contract, with possibility of extension based on need and project funding. Contracts will begin no later than January 2025. Anticipated workload is approximately 300-500 hours across the duration of the contract period.
Location: Remote
Contracts may be made with an individual or a qualifying business entity. State-specific contracting laws and limitations may apply

To apply

Please send a resume, brief cover letter describing your qualifications, and contact information for three relevant professional references to hiring@csp-inc.org, and include the phrase “Bird ID Technician” in the email subject line. All materials (resume, cover letter, references) should be combined and sent as a single PDF file. Full consideration will be given to applications submitted on or before January 6, 2025. Top applications will be asked to confirm their knowledge of California bird sounds through a skills test.

About CSP

Conservation Science Partners (CSP; csp-inc.org) is a dynamic 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2012 to meet the analytical and research needs of diverse stakeholders in achieving conservation and protection of the natural world. Our mission is to apply human ingenuity to the preservation of nature using science, technology, and lasting partnerships with conservation practitioners. We connect the best minds in conservation science to solve problems in a way that is comprehensive, flexible, and service-oriented. CSP works in the complex and fast-paced nonprofit realm using tools that include data science and advanced analytics; risk analysis and climate change vulnerability analyses; species and habitat modeling; and wildlife and ecological connectivity analysis to identify solutions through land and water use, designating protected areas, and advancing social and environmental justice. We are a recognized leader in the development of data, models, and maps to convey the status of and change to natural systems and human impacts on the environment. Core clients and partners include government agencies, foundations, environmentally progressive businesses, and other non-governmental organizations. Outcomes of projects are designed to explain ecological phenomena and lead to tools, map products, and strategies often tailored to the needs of decision makers. 

CSP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, creed, veteran status, parental status, or marital status in its programs and activities. We recognize that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences can only enrich our community and our conservation mission and goals. As part of our intentional efforts to increase inclusivity, equity,diversity, and justice, we encourage applicants from underrepresented groups in conservation, e.g., those who identify as non-binary, LGBTQ+, are people of color, or represent any combination of these and other identities.