Benefits:

403b Plan Participation

10 paid holidays per year

paid vacation

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Archbold Biological Station is seeking a bright, motivated Remote Sensing Research Assistant and Drone Pilot to join our team. Archbold Biological Station is a non-profit ecological organization, committed to conservation and collaborative research. As the Remote Sensing Research Assistant/Drone Pilot, you will be responsible collecting, processing, and analyzing spatial datasets using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to support ongoing ecological research projects at Archbold. An ideal candidate will be organized, detail-oriented, and interested in exploring the use of UAVs and other remotely sensed data to answer ecological research questions. Desired start date in September. This is a full-time, on-site position with benefits. Posting will remain open until 8/25/25, applications will be reviewed as they are received. Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered.

Essential Roles & Responsibilities

Collect spatial datasets using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to support ongoing research activities at Archbold Biological Station and Buck Island Ranch

Assist with offsite UAV data collection to support contracts and grants

Perform other necessary field data collection to ensure accuracy of UAV datasets

Manage and document all planned flights in accordance with any regulations and standard operating procedures

Perform all processing steps needed to produce georeferenced orthomosaics with provided software and perform basic analyses

Provide input to researchers on collection methods, analysis methods, and data products for projects

Continue to research emerging technologies and make recommendations for future purchases

Maintain, calibrate, and deployment tracking and oversight of all lab electronic equipment (UAVs, Trimble GPS, sensors, etc)

Assist in other activities in the GIS lab as needed, including but not limited to support in spatial analysis, map making, GPS collection, setting up mobile field data collection apps.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, GIS, remote sensing, relevant field, or suitable coursework

Experience with ESRIs ArcGIS software, including ArcGIS online, ArcGIS Pro, Survey123, FieldMaps

Experience working with high resolution imagery

An analytical mindset with the ability to prioritize and problem-solve, with little to no supervision

Ability to independently research and master new software

Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Access, Word etc)

Preferred Qualifications

A passion for Archbold’s mission (interest or experience in biological research and conservation)

Master’s degree in environmental science, biology, GIS, remote sensing, relevant field, or suitable coursework

Experience working with UAVs.

FAA part 107 Remote pilot license

Experience doing independent fieldwork in off-road conditions, including operating a 4-wheel drive vehicle and GPS navigation in the field

Experience with software for orthomosaic production using drone imagery

Experience capturing and analyzing high resolution remote sensing imagery

Experience processing and analyzing different types of remotely sensed data, including Lidar, multi-spectral imagery, and hyperspectral imagery

Experience working with electronic equipment

Ability to work extended periods independently and with initiative under minimal supervision

Familiarity with ENVI

Ability to perform basic automated scripting tasks, preferably in R or python

Ability to perform assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail

Ability to work safely and use best judgement with inclement weather

Ability to work with multi-disciplinary research staff and outside agencies

Excellent communication and collaboration skills

We encourage candidates who can demonstrate passion and commitment to learning to apply.