Owyhee Air Research · Idaho · posted 5 days ago
Owyhee Air Research (OAR) is currently hiring a seasonal aerial sensor operator for its 2026-2027 wildlife survey season. Work is anticipated to begin early October and run through the end of April 2027 with the potential for extension. Work will involve extended travel to remote parts of the United States and Canada with some small (<25%) portion of time spent at headquarters in Nampa, Idaho. Owyhee Air Research is a small, privately held aerial data acquisition company headquartered in Nampa, Idaho, USA. Owyhee Air Research (OAR) specializes in the collection of natural resource and ecological data using fixed-wing aircraft outfitted with a variety of multi-spectral imaging systems and navigational computers. One of the primary functions at OAR is the aerial censusing of free-ranging wildlife across a variety of landscapes and habitat types, using infrared (IR) sensors to detect wildlife that would otherwise remain unseen. Since our inception in 2015, OAR has conducted wildlife census flights, utilizing infrared sensors, on virtually every large mammal species and habitat type in North America. From locating buried polar bear dens along the Arctic coast, to quantifying large groups of rocky mountain elk, to non-invasive sage grouse lek surveys; OAR has solidified a reputation throughout the United States as the leader in professional aerial wildlife surveys, culminating in numerous revolving service contracts with wildlife agencies throughout the United States and Canada. Job Description: The Aerial Sensor Operator (ASO) conducts all aerial infrared data acquisition at Owyhee Air Research (OAR). Knowledge of wildlife identification and ecology, as well as basic mapping/ geospatial software, basic statistics, and geospatial inferencing is essential to the success of the mission, as is ecological knowledge and its applications to thermal imaging. The IR technician must work with all parties within Owyhee Air Research, as well as local agency representatives to plan and carry out an aerial IR mission as efficiently as possible. The ASO must be flexible and able to work independently to organize, prioritize, and fulfill all tasks related to data acquisition for the customer. They must be good communicators and be able to keep clear and concise data records. Strong intra-office communication is required, as is participation in weekly OAR Team Meetings. Missions are conducted in light, fixed-wing aircraft during optimal thermal conditions (usually at night or during crepuscular hours), when environmental conditions are coolest, and animal activity is at its peak. Successful candidates will operate high-powered, multi-spectral imaging equipment to locate, quantify, and classify target species and other species of interest. Ideal candidates will be comfortable operating in turbulent, confined spaces that may be warm or cold. Please note: this job requires more than 75% travel throughout North America. Aerial sensor operators are compensated on a monthly salary basis with additional compensation corresponding to time conducting airborne responsibilities. Travel per diem and hotel lodging is provided while on wildlife monitoring projects. Qualifications: Required: • Minimum of bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, environmental systems, or similar field. • Excellent organizational skills, ability to prioritize work and maintain multiple projects simultaneously. • Ability to accurately identify North American wildlife. • Demonstrated accurate record-keeping abilities and impressive attention to detail. • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. • Strong communication skills. • Ability to maintain confidentiality of personal and professional data. • Valid US Passport or ability to work in Canada. Preferred: • Experience conducting aerial wildlife surveys in fixed wing aircraft or helicopters. • Understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum, thermography, and basic remote sensing. • Experience with scientific writing. • Proficiency in the following software: • ArcGIS Pro / qGIS / Google Earth Pro • Microsoft Excel (MS suite) • Video editors such as VCSD or Adobe Premiere Qualified candidate located in Idaho’s Treasure Valley are strongly encouraged to apply. To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional references to Drew Trausch (dtrausch@owyheeair.com). Review of applicants will begin immediately.
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