Merlin is one of the most popular bird identification apps in the world. Help coordinate the development of next-generation bird identification tools, using cutting edge technologies like computer vision, and help bring these new tools to millions of users. Merlin provides the answer that so many people are looking for: what bird am I seeing? When combined with the data collection resources of eBird, the future potential of Merlin’s identification and eBird’s information is massive. With the continual improvement of computer vision and deep learning processes, Merlin will be able to leverage hundreds of thousands of images of birds in developing tools that will allow for automatic identification of bird images, and who knows what else! The future is exciting, and we want you to be a part of it. Official Cornell Job Description here—apply within
The Lab of Ornithology is currently seeking a Merlin Project Coordinator. Specific duties include:
- Collaborate with the immediate supervisor and application developers to handle the day-to-day coordination of Merlin.
- Coordinate the Merlin help center and communication with users.
- Help expand to a global community by working with the Merlin team to further partnerships with other Cornell programs, external academic institutions, nongovernmental organizations and governmental departments and agencies in the U.S. and abroad.
- Assist with Merlin content generation processes worldwide.
- Assist Merlin development staff and partners gathering requirements for new Merlin activities.
- Assist the entire Merlin team in the planning, implementation, and tracking of existing and future projects.
- Assist in mass media related to the program.
- Assist with the coordination of work with staff to ensure efficient, high-quality, and timely production.
- Work closely with Cornell students and outside contractors to meet goals and objectives for Merlin.
Annual term appointment with possible renewal based on performance and available funding.
Applicants to provide cover letter, resume, contact information for 3 references
Required Qualifications
- Formal training beyond a HS Diploma of 6 months to one year’s duration or equivalent, or Associates Degree; more than four years, but less than six years of equivalent.
- Deep understanding of birds and bird distribution is required.
- Proven skills in project management and coordination are essential, along with excellent interpersonal skills.
- Familiarity and proficiency with the Internet and content management systems is critical, along with a strong interest in using the Web as a tool to conduct research, engage and educate the public.
- Mastery of common computer skills including word, email, and excel.
- Prior knowledge of social media outlets.
- Strong communication skills (written and oral) to clearly articulate vision and plans, and provide instruction effectively to all levels of management, staff, new partners, funding agencies, Merlin users, and visitors.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of management and staff internally and externally.
- Ability to value teamwork and be able to stimulate cooperation between all employees and partners.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation.
- Provide high level of initiative to anticipate needs of the project and fulfill project objectives with very minimal supervision.
- Ability to prioritize activities and multitask is essential.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree preferred.
- Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese.
- At least five years of experience watching birds.
- Knowledge of birds in Latin America.
- Experience with WordPress helpful.
Official Cornell Job Description here—apply within
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There are also currently five positions open to become a part of the eBird technical team—working with the eBird mobile and online platforms. There are openings for a Principal Web Service Developer and a Web Service Developer, a Data Service Developer-Administrator, an Android Application Developer (for eBird Mobile), and a DevOps Engineer. Come to the Cornell Lab and be a part of the future of birding and bird information, building resources to support science and conservation worldwide. If you or anyone you know might be interested in any of these positions, please see and share the full list of positions.