Postdoctoral Associate - Conservation and Science
Postdoctoral Associate
Schedule: Full Time, 2-year position -with possibility of extension
Compensation: $63,000/yearNote: Please be aware that we are unable to sponsor visas at this time
You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the positionSUMMARY:
Under general direction of the Director of Conservation and Science, the Postdoctoral Associate investigates nesting behavior of the reintroduced California condor population in southern California.
JOB DESCRIPTION
ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following:
Research:
Develops systems to process, code and enter video data of nesting condors in southern California
Recruits, trains and coordinates volunteers, students, and staff on the use and equipment and software for coding of video data
Manages day-to-day activities of volunteers, students, and staff on the project
Incorporates relevant movement data into analyses
Establishes and maintains databases
Interprets and analyzes research results
Prepares progress reports
Publishes papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals with the Director of Conservation and Science and project collaborators
Publishes papers in the popular literature
Assists in the development of funding proposals
Maintains project budget and recommends purchases of supplies and equipment
Makes presentations to Zoo staff, community partners, and professional groups
Performs related duties and responsibilities as required
Guest Experience/Education:
Shares zoo research activities with guests and donors as appropriate
Ensures interdepartmental coordination, where appropriate, to explore and maximize presentation of research to the public
Staff Development:
Collaborates with Director of Conservation & Science, Conservation & Science Associate, Condor Nest Biologist, and Condor Biologist to address research issues
Shares critical information, best practices, and procedures on a consistent basis with staff
Coaches coworkers, students and volunteers and provides informal feedback
Operation and Business:
Encourages, supports, and exemplifies the highest ethical standards to ensure the health and well-being of the animals in our care and the continued development of the institution and the profession
Attends every other month all-employee meetings
Adheres to the Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
SECONDARY DUTIES:Guest Relations:
Greets every guest with a smile
Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly
Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
Associates with guests to assist and share information
Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings
Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge and our Core Values
Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations
POSITION CRITERIA:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience:
PhD in the behavioral or biological sciences
Proven research and publication record in animal behavior
Substantial experience modeling and analyzing complex datasets
License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
Valid driver’s license with good driving record
Please be aware that we are unable to sponsor visas at this time
Essential Knowledge, Skills and Ability:
Applicable research and analysis skills
Strong organizational and time management skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate successfully
Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office programs, reference management software, and statistical software packages
Capacity and willingness to learn new software, research methods and statistical techniques
Record of peer-reviewed and lay publications
Public speaking ability, both for scientific and lay audiences
High personal motivation, self-management, and attention to detail
Ability to follow oral and written direction
Ability to work independently
Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests and to develop positive relationships at work
Commitment to a diverse, equitable, accessible and inclusive team culture
Supervisory experience
Ability to work successfully in an open plan office, with interruptions
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
Requires the ability to access all areas of the facility
Requires the ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, and hilltop
Shared workspace
Hybrid or remote work may be considered (some onsite orientation may be required)
Tools Used:
Computer
Microsoft Office package
Reference management software
Statistical Analysis software
Data collection software
Animal monitoring equipment
Video monitoring systems
2-way Radio
Zoo Vehicles
You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position
--The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute a contract for employment, and does not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.The Santa Barbara Zoo is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas.