Research Technician

Research in the West Lab focuses on the ecology, conservation, and management of wildlife, with an emphasis on North American birds. Current projects address how human activities shape the behavior, movement, and population dynamics of (largely) terrestrial animals and emphasize the development of innovative methods to study species of conservation concern. We use field data, bioacoustic monitoring, spatial analyses, community science data, and quantitative approaches to provide applied outcomes for pressing conservation issues.

Job Duties/About the Job:
We are seeking a research technician to assist in data processing for Sounds of Nature Minnesota, a University of Minnesota research project on bioacoustic monitoring to assess statewide avian biodiversity on public and private lands. Technicians will be responsible for processing audio data collected during the 2025 field season using audio processing software. They will also assist broadly in data analysis, visualization, and website development for the West Lab.

This position would be hired as a casual job code 0001 working no more than 14 hours per week.

Primary duties include:
Data Entry and Management (70%)

• Validate bird identification results produced by BirdNET using audio processing software and online sound reference libraries
• Assist in implementing data processing workflows and tracking data analysis progress
• Assist with visualization of acoustic data

Website Development and Management (30%)

• Assist with the development of a project web
  

Required

• High school graduation or the equivalent with some science courses and laboratory experience should provide the necessary background for work of this class
• Equivalent combination of relevant academic and work experience may be substituted

Preferred

• Prior experience processing and managing acoustic datasets
• An exceptional work ethic, the ability to work alone or collaboratively with a team, willingness to adjust to a flexible schedule and a great attention to detail
  

Pay Range: $18.00 per hour

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

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