About The Position

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is seeking a Temporary Bartels Science Illustrator for a unique visiting artist residency. This is a full-time, paid temporary appointment up to one year long. The program offers opportunities to emerging artist illustrators seeking to gain experience in science illustration and expand their portfolios while working on projects that help the Cornell Lab achieve its broader mission. The artist will work with various departments including Communications (Living Bird Magazine), Membership (Gifts for members), Education (K-12 programs), Higher Education (teaching undergraduate classes), and directly with Cornell Lab scientists to communicate research to the public. The artist will benefit from mentorship and supervision of the staff biological illustrator, access to specialists, and will develop a diverse portfolio for career development. The Bartels Science Illustration Program is recognized in the professional field as a rare and valuable opportunity for emerging artists with substantial biological illustration skills at the portfolio-building stage.

Requirements

  • Associate's Degree and 2+ years of relevant experience in illustration or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to deliver work on schedule.
  • Ability to incorporate feedback throughout the production process.
  • Willingness to work on a broad range of projects with various subject matters, styles, audiences, and applications.
  • Respect for and sensitivity to differences of culture, identity, and background in the workplace and with external stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

  • Certification in scientific illustration or a degree in a related field is preferred, and/or equivalent work experience as demonstrated in portfolio samples.
  • College-level coursework related to science illustration, including fine art courses such as observational drawing courses, and courses in related fields such as illustration and graphic design, as well as biology and the sciences.
  • A passion for further developing your skills in ornithological art.
  • Experience and skill in drawing and painting birds in one or more mediums or artistic styles.
  • General professional interest in science and science communication.
  • An interest in art instruction and sharing artistic techniques with others through university courses and informal workshops.
  • Experience with teaching is helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

  • Work as part of a team and independently, contributing to a productive work environment.
  • Communicate ideas to others and work collaboratively and inclusively to develop visuals that further the Cornell Lab’s mission.
  • Deliver work on schedule.
  • Incorporate feedback throughout the production process.
  • Consult with direct supervisor and other Cornell Lab experts to ensure biological accuracy before final completion and delivery of artwork.
  • Work on a broad range of projects with various subject matters, styles, audiences, and applications.
  • Demonstrate respect for and sensitivity to differences of culture, identity, and background in the workplace and with external stakeholders.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health care options
  • Generous retirement contributions
  • Access to wellness programs
  • Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
  • Health and personal leave
  • Three weeks of vacation
  • 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end-of-year Winter Break from December 25 - January 1.
  • Two additional floating holidays for observing faiths and traditions.

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Entry Level

Education Level

Associate degree

Number of Employees

1-10 employees

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