Research Assistant I/II

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Research Assistant I/II. The Research Assistant will work in the Motta Lab at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. We are looking for a Research Assistant to assist with laboratory daily activities and potential fieldwork in the Pacific Ocean. The work involves the analysis and preparation of pelagic zooplankton samples for bulk mercury stable isotopes, phytoplankton experiments, and the development of compound- specific mercury isotopes. There is also the possibility for fieldwork in the Indian Ocean, during which we will collect samples to assess mercury cycling. The Research Assistant must be hardworking, detail-oriented, and able to work independently with little supervision.

Essential Functions:

The Research Assistant will work with and trained by Motta. Examples of essential functions include:

· Maintaining phytoplankton and zooplankton cultures

· Acid cleaning

· Samples digestion for methylmercury analysis

· Running the mercury analyzers

· Commit to a healthy workplace climate

Research Assistant II: With some supervision, employs established laboratory procedures, standard equipment, and fundamental concepts to conduct research tasks determined by field of study and scope of individual research project.

o Executes designated research tasks, making use of selected laboratory experiments, equipment, field work, library research, data acquisition and processing, statistical analyses or other investigative techniques;

o Organizes and summarizes acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques including computer programs;

o Organizes and/or drafts material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts, or other documents for publication and/or presentation;

o Participates in the design of experiments or field work.

The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate’s level of education and experience.

Education & Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Environmental Science, Oceanography, Biogeochemistry or related discipline.

· Previous experience with both laboratory and field setting is desirable.

Salary Range:
Research Assistant I – $45,918 – $58,917

Research Assistant II – $51,025- $65,604

Assistant/Associate Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering

Wilkes University invites applicants for a tenure track position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level to join the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department starting August 2027. The department offers exclusively undergraduate degrees with a long tradition of personalized learning and teaching experiences, featuring small class sizes, publishable undergraduate research, and hands-on projects. The successful applicant would be expected to complement the existing engineering faculty by building a research, and/or service program with undergraduate students as an integral component.

Candidates must have earned a doctoral degree at the time of appointment and be working toward a Professional Engineering license. Professional experience in Water Resources Engineering and Hydraulic Engineering or a closely related field will be considered favorably. Expertise in fluid flow, water resources and process design is desired. Candidates with other relevant experience will be considered.

Duties would be focused on flexibility in teaching foundation courses for engineering and science majors, bringing expertise to upper-level engineering electives and contributing to the continued development of the program. The successful candidate must have the ability to provide outstanding classroom, laboratory, and in-field instruction for engineering and science courses and a strong interest in working with undergraduate students. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Director of Conservation Biotechnologies

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Director of Conservation Biotechnologies is responsible for the overall direction, planning, coordination, and implementation of a scientific research program that supports and is aligned with the conservation objectives and strategy of the SDZWA. The Director will oversee an integrated scientific group, encompassing our conservation genetics, reproductive sciences, and biodiversity banking teams. The Conservation Biotechnologies department takes an integrative and innovative approach; applying an array of scientific disciplines to support strategies (e.g., genetic rescue, population assessment and management, assisted reproduction) designed to safeguard and restore biodiversity and to manage wildlife populations in situ and ex situ. Scientific disciplines practiced within the Biotechnologies department include cryogenic biobanking of living cells and gametes (which comprise the SDZWA Frozen Zoo®), advanced population genomics, advanced reproductive technologies, cell biology, endocrinology, stem cell biology, bioinformatics and more. The Director of Conservation Biotechnologies is a subject-matter expert in either conservation genetics/genomics, reproductive sciences, cellular biology, or biodiversity banking, with a high level of fluency in the other disciplines. This position requires a proven track record of innovating, applying, and critically evaluating scientific approaches for biodiversity conservation, as well as a strong record of collaboration across sectors.

As a leadership position in the Conservation Science Wildlife Health (CSWH) department, the Director of Conservation Biotechnologies communicates the SDZWA conservation vision and strategy to their team, identifies and prioritizes projects that strengthen connections with other teams in CSWH, departments within SDZWA, external partners, and has a working knowledge of approaches/tools used by the SDZWA to ensure activities support conservation outcomes (e.g., The Conservation Standards). The Director of Conservation Biotechnologies will develop and steward strategic collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGO’s, academic institutions, and local communities. The Director will have a proven track record for successful grant writing and team leadership. Working knowledge of regional, national, and international conservation frameworks and conventions is essential.

The Director is a member of the Conservation Science leadership team, and is responsible for monitoring, reporting, and communicating the Conservation Biotechnology team’s conservation and science outcomes. The Director will contribute to organizational conservation strategic planning and fundraising, including securing grant funding through various sources.

Additional responsibilities of the Director of Conservation Biotechnologies include budget development and oversight, internal and external communications, ensuring that the team complies with ethical, safety and other guidelines as defined by SDZWA policies and procedures. The Director drives team cohesion and morale and serves to effectively connect the team to the broader CSWH department and with our strategic conservation objectives. This position will report to the Vice President of Wildlife Conservation Science.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Leads the development of broad-scale scientific research programs for the department that are aligned with the strategic conservation goals of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Ensures relevant scientific innovations are incorporated into research programs and that scientific activities support larger-conservation objectives
Responsible for the productivity, mentorship and morale of department staff, ensuring that staff activities are effectively directed to meet organizationally aligned conservation goals
Oversee operations and budget of multiple field and/or lab research programs
Serves as departmental liaison within the organization and oversees all relevant compliance areas, including animal welfare, legal, financial, human resources, and grant deliverables
Promotes organizational reputation externally through partnership cultivation and professional service, including presentations to diverse audiences and participation in committees, conferences, working groups, and academic institutions

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking a visionary conservation science leader who brings deep scientific expertise, a track record of innovation, and the ability to translate integrative science into transformative conservation outcomes. The ideal candidate will inspire and lead a multidisciplinary team, build strategic partnerships and shape the future of conservation biotechnology through scientific excellence, collaboration, and strategic leadership.

JOB EXPERIENCE

Must have 7 or more years of experience directing and conducting scientific research in genetics/genomics, reproductive sciences, cellular biology, biodiversity banking, or related scientific field required
Must have 5 or more years of experience managing a team required.
Must have a noteworthy publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Successful track record of grant writing required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

PhD in genetics/genomics, reproductive sciences, cellular biology, biodiversity banking, or related field required.
Valid California Driver’s License in good standing required.
Valid Passport

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Plan and develop strategic conservation science projects and programs
Working knowledge of multiple scientific disciplines to foster transdisciplinary approaches to conservation
Productive engagement across geography and cultures in the development of collaborative initiatives
Navigate federal and local regulatory agency environments, rules, and compliance
Travel as needed to manage diverse projects and teams
Prepare and review grant applications and administer grants
Develop, administer, and monitor budgets
Manage and create a team dynamic
Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing to scientific and lay audiences
Prepare papers for publication in scientific journals

Salary Range: $173,982 to $195,730

Environmental Compliance Inspector

The City of Richmond is seeking an organized and motivated professional who values and embraces the diversity of our community and brings a strong background in science, environmental compliance, and safety. Successful candidates will be able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in the role of Environmental Compliance Inspector.

The City’s Public Works Department is seeking to fill a vacancy in the Water Resource Recovery Division.

The Environmental Compliance Inspector performs inspections, investigates, plans, and organizes regulatory compliance work associated with the City’s Wastewater Pretreatment and Municipal Stormwater Programs. Assures the City’s environmental compliance with applicable federal, state, and local codes and regulations.

The most successful candidate will be a motivated, detail-oriented environmental professional with knowledge of wastewater pretreatment and municipal stormwater programs and the ability to apply environmental regulations in a practical field setting.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable conducting inspections and sampling, evaluating data, identifying and documenting potential violations, and communicating compliance requirements clearly and professionally while working independently and collaboratively with City staff, regulated businesses, regulatory agencies, and the public.

Desirable characteristics:

Strong technical writing, communication, organizational, and recordkeeping skills
Attention to detail and accuracy
Professional, collaborative, and service – oriented approach to compliance activities
Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain effective working relationships.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Sciences, or a related field
One (1) to three (3) years of related experience
Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities

Required Licenses or Certifications

Possession of a valid California driver’s license and satisfactory driving record is an ongoing requirement
Possession of a California Water Environment Association – Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade I certificate is required within twelve (12) months of the date of hire
Ability to acquire a Grade II Environmental Compliance Inspector certificate within the first twenty-four (24) months of the date of hire
Maintaining a valid Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade II certificate is an ongoing requirement.

Desirable Experience

Experience in wastewater pretreatment and/or municipal stormwater compliance, including inspections, investigations, sampling, monitoring, and enforcement.
Knowledge of NPDES requirements and applicable wastewater, stormwater, and environmental regulations.
Experience with environmental sampling and proper sample collection, preservation, and documentation procedures.

Desirable Certifications

Possession of a California Water Environment Association – Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade I or Grade II certificate is highly desirable.

Salary Range: $8,186.20 – $9,909.62 Monthly

Environmental Specialist

This position will report to the Land Supervisor within the Environmental Affairs and Sustainability (EA&S) Department. The Environmental Specialist/Engineer will work in a fast-paced environment with Southern Company’s operating companies (OPCOs) Environmental Affairs organizations on environmental policy for land and waste issues, SPCC, permitting and compliance. Responsibilities will include monitoring and engaging in the regulatory development process for environmental rules (e.g., RCRA, CERCLA, TSCA), communicating new developments/interpretations to management and operating company personnel, assisting in environmental compliance efforts, and coordinating operating companies’ strategy with regard to EPA’s rulemaking agenda. This position will also support the system’s vendor audit program and waste metrics reporting.

This position will be called upon to represent the Company in national industry groups and other public forums and to engage employees across numerous functional areas, including safety, permitting, research and technology development, fuels, planning, commercial operations and external affairs. While experience in environmental policy, compliance, and/or permitting is beneficial, candidates with other work and educational experience involving directly relevant skill sets are encouraged to apply.

Job Requirements

Education and Work Experience

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or relevant scientific discipline from an accredited 4-year college required

Master’s degree and professional certificates in related field desired

Two to five years relevant work experience required

Experience in environmental policy, permitting, compliance preferred.

Experience with OPCOs and interface with regulatory agencies desired

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong analytical, problem solving and decision-making abilities

Ability to coordinate and manage cross functional teams, build consensus and deliver results

Knowledge of electric utility industry, electric generation and transmission and distribution desired

Knowledge of federal/state environmental regulatory and legislative processes preferred

Effective communication skills both verbally and in writing, to convey complex topics to internal and external audiences at all levels

Ability to read, comprehend and summarize complex environmental regulations

Demonstrate technical and business writing skills

Demonstrate strong initiative and interpersonal skills

Demonstrate project management and organizational skills

Ability to work independently without day-to-day direction

Proficient in standard business computer and software packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Ability to think strategically and display customer focus

Ability to work in a team environment with diverse disciplines and backgrounds

Demonstrate behaviors consistent with Our Values – Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance

Environmental Specialist I

This full-time Career Service entry level position supports the Water Compliance Enforcement Program (WCEP) within the Division of Water Resource Management. The Environmental Specialist I plays a key role in ensuring the accurate and timely reporting of compliance data from wastewater and stormwater facilities throughout Florida. This position is responsible for wastewater incident data that must be updated daily. Wastewater incidents, which include plant upsets, bypasses, sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) and other wastewater spills can pose a threat to the environment and public health. To minimize the impact of a wastewater incident, an owner or operator must provide immediate notification and appropriate response. Additionally, this position assists the EzDMR Administrator and helps the Department in meeting our commitments made to the EPA under the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Primary responsibilities include:

Utilizing wastewater and stormwater facilities policies and regulations to perform Quality Assurance on spill related data to verify the data entered is distinct, complete and accurate. Updating information as needed.
Utilizing the State Watch Office Incident Tracker, Outlook, and OCULUS to obtain all necessary information for wastewater incident data entry. Requesting additional information from District staff, as needed.
Identifying relevant information and entering it in DEP’s Oracle database, WAFR, and forwarding specified information to internal staff.
Fulfilling data requests or other public record requests pertaining to spills or other wastewater data.
Assisting the EzDMR Coordinator with duties, such as gathering and interpreting information, problem solving, identifying data discrepancies, processing information, testing enhancements, and providing customer service.
Assisting with queries and Microsoft Access objects related to EzDMR and WAFR.
Evaluating information and proposing enhancements to improve processes or to meet any other needs.
Assisting with data entry of drinking water and wastewater monitoring reports as needed.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of physical and natural sciences.
Knowledge of data collection and analysis principles and procedures.
Knowledge of the general office practices.
Knowledge of computer software and web-based tools.
Ability to learn applicable permitting requirements for wastewater and stormwater facilities.
Ability to learn functions and procedures for data processing.
Ability to learn data management systems, procedures and workflows.
Ability to follow instructions and directions.
Ability to accurately read and record data.
Ability to gather, evaluate, analyze, and interpret scientific or technical information.
Ability to identify the nature of a problem, and to use logic and analysis to evaluate solutions.
Ability to review data and written materials for accuracy and completeness.
Ability to work quickly and accurately.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
Ability to work in a team or independently.
Ability to track and coordinate multiple work assignments.

Minimum Qualifications:

At least 4 years of verifiable related experience, as described above. Post-secondary degrees may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year-for-year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.

Valid Driver’s License

Position of Special Trust Requirement:

This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust in accordance with DEP Directive 422, Positions of Special Trust or Responsibility. Successful completion of background screening will be required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of state and federal regulations related to wastewater.
Knowledge of the Department’s compliance and enforcement process.

Pay: $43,230

Senior Rehabilitation Biologist

The National Aquarium is seeking a Senior Rehabilitation Biologist responsible for executing complex, professional work for all aspects of animal husbandry and welfare within the Animal Rescue department, including stranding response and rehabilitation of sea turtles. Specifically, this includes the design, set-up, care and maintenance of habitats, disease recognition and medical treatment, life support system construction and operation, field work, species identification and knowledge, and incident response. In addition to the Senior Rehabilitation Biologist’s scheduled duties, the incumbent is expected to use independent judgment and critical thinking to problem solve, keeping human and animal welfare at the forefront of decision making and actions. Responsible for being able to lead special projects and other investigations aimed at furthering the quality of animal care and welfare. The Senior Rehabilitation Biologist position may also be responsible to serve as the main point of contact for the area(s) to which they are assigned, or as a liaison cross-departmentally within the Aquarium or with external agencies (NOAA & USFWS). May supervise, train and mentor paid husbandry staff and volunteers.

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

Performs general daily husbandry and medical treatment functions including the maintenance of habitats and quarantine facilities at a high level of quality as defined in our protocols; does so without direct supervision.
Performs the duties and maintains the skills of a Rehabilitation Biologist.
Directly responsible for advanced husbandry duties such as animal quarantine protocols, habitat design, leading field work, record keeping, acquisition/disposition, and leading triage and transport of animals.
May supervise, train and mentor paid husbandry staff and volunteers in the development of job and leadership skills relating to general husbandry and medical functions, habitat design, construction and maintenance, project management, and field techniques.
Assumes responsibility for the implementation of daily operations, emergency response, and effective teamwork within their husbandry area, as scheduled.
As scheduled, provide 24-hour coverage of Stranding Hotline, and provide exemplary customer service.
Work cooperatively with Animal Health to manage and execute the Aquarium’s regional response to live-stranded sea turtles according to established protocols.
Contributes to the development or refinement of policies and procedures relating to essential functions of the assigned section, as directed. Policies and procedures may cross more than one department/ assigned section.
Implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and Incident Action Plans (IAP’s) related to stranding response, manage events under the Incident Command System, and ensure staff and animal safety.
Provides operational and logistical support to stranding events, and as requested by Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Maintain life support systems.
Develop and manage research goals for sea turtles in rehabilitation.
Collaborate with Director on Animal Rescue Protocols to review and update.
Must have specialized knowledge about sea turtle and/or marine mammal biology and have an affinity for wild animals, including a reasonable comfort level around large and/or aggressive animals.
Comprehensive knowledge of and ability to set up laboratory and diagnostic testing, animal medical treatment methods, and pharmacology and drug dosing as prescribed by veterinarian(s); must be familiar with quarantine protocols.
Familiarity with computers is necessary, including MS Office software (Word/Excel/Teams), Zoom, and Adobe; ability to learn & effectively use all proprietary Aquarium software.
Expected to act as a role model within and beyond the division; must professionally demonstrate good judgment and communication skills through interpersonal effectiveness and fostering a learning culture.
Promote teamwork and a positive and productive work environment.
Accountable to use independent judgment and critical thinking to problem solve, keeping human safety and animal welfare at the forefront of decision making and actions. Innovation may be required to temporarily modify existing policies and procedures. Problems to solve are typically within the assigned section.
Willingness and ability to mentor new staff, volunteers, and interns while exhibiting the same or higher levels of technical skill/knowledge.
Stays abreast of current trends in the related field to ensure that National Aquarium programs, policies, and protocols continue to evolve and improve.
Support company mission.
Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Other duties as assigned or required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

Bachelor’s degree in aquatic sciences, environmental or related science or equivalent experience.
Minimum of three years of previous professional work experience with rehabilitation, and or stranding response organization with preference to those with experience with both pinnipeds and sea turtles.
Ability to be certified in the operation of an electric pallet jack/stacker and overhead crane.
Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and occasional evenings.
Employees assigned to this position will be required to possess and maintain a valid and current motor vehicle operator’s license, have an acceptable driving record, and possess the ability to drive a variety of vehicles (cars, vans/trucks).
Ability to climb ladders, lift and carry 50 lbs, and physically restrain large, wild animals.

Preferred:

Previous experience mentoring or training staff, interns or volunteers.
Veterinary Technician experience or license.
CPR/AED and basic First-Aid Certification
24hr HAZWOPER Certification.
Familiarity with electronic animal record keeping software systems (i.e. Tracks, ZIMS, etc.)
Previous experience responding to hotline calls and field stranding response.
Ability to pass a Department of Transportation medical exam.

TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION:

Salary range ($58,660-71,399 annual). National Aquarium provides an excellent benefits package, including four weeks paid time off, and six paid floating holidays and up to four weeks of paid family leave. Employees are eligible for health care (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work. Conservation day leave and 401(k) plan with employer match available.

Director of the Center for Urban and Coastal Climate Science Research

Founded in 1867, Morgan State University is Maryland’s premier public urban research institution, recognized for its dedication to excellence in teaching, research, public service, and community engagement. The School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (SCMNS), in partnership with the Morgan State Patuxent Environmental and Aquatic Research Laboratory (PEARL), invites applications for the position of Director for the newly established Center for Urban and Coastal Climate Science Research. This Center is dedicated to addressing critical and complex challenges related to climate change, with a focus on its impact on natural ecosystems, the built environment, the economy, and the health and well-being of Maryland’s residents. We are seeking a distinguished scientist and leader with a strong track record in environmental science research, including areas such as coastal and marine science, environmental toxicology, risk assessment, environmental modeling, or related disciplines. The ideal candidate will lead research and educational initiatives in crucial areas such as urban air quality, human and environmental health, community resilience, climate impacts on energy resources, coastal watershed dynamics, and sustainable fisheries management. These efforts are aimed at not only advancing scientific understanding but also providing evidence-based recommendations for effective climate change management strategies in Maryland and beyond.

The appointed Director will oversee the Center’s daily operations, working in close collaboration with the Dean of SCMNS and the Director of Morgan State PEARL. Key responsibilities include:

1. Implementing the Center’s strategic vision and research agenda
2. Developing and executing a robust research program in their specific area of climate science
3. Expanding the Center’s reach by securing external funding through grants, contracts, and partnerships
4. Training students and mentoring early-stage investigators to support their development into independent environmental researchers
5. Leading the evaluation and enhancement of the Center’s research activities

The candidate should have a nationally recognized record of research accomplishments, demonstrated through current publications and secured funding. Significant leadership experience and a strong commitment to advancing climate science research are essential. The individual will hold a faculty appointment within the School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences.

The successful candidate must possess a Doctorate in a relevant field from an accredited university.

Salary Range: $150,00 – $200,000/year

Associate Teaching Professor of Geology

The Department/Program of Geology at William & Mary, a public university of the Commonwealth of Virginia, invites applications for a 4-year, non-tenure track Associate Teaching Professor instructional position that will begin August 10, 2027. This full-time teaching faculty appointment carries a service component commensurate with rank and comes with the possibility of ongoing renewals and a framework for promotion per the Teaching Faculty Framework.

We seek an individual with expertise in and enthusiasm for teaching introductory geology courses. The successful applicant will have the expertise to teach in both undergraduate lecture-based and lab-based geology courses. Additional teaching expectations will include undergraduate courses in the applicant’s area of expertise that contribute to the geology curriculum and/or general education requirements. The applicant may also contribute to our Regional Field Geology (GEOL 310), which is a field-based course that brings undergraduate students to a selected region around the world. There is no expectation of research scholarship. The successful applicant will have demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality geology education. In practice, this will involve keeping the curricula current with the advances in the discipline and actively participating in the continuous improvement of the introductory geology curriculum. The successful applicant will be expected to be an effective teacher and will have a [3-3] teaching load.

Required Qualifications:

A Master’s degree is required in Geology, Earth and Environmental Science, or a related field.

Applicants must have completed 18 graduate credit hours in Geology, Earth and Environmental Science, or a related field.

Ability to teach Introductory Geology and other lecture, lab, and seminar-style courses in the applicant’s area of expertise that could contribute to the geology curriculum and/or general education requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

A Ph.D. in Geology, Earth and Environmental Science, or a related field or ABD is preferred at the time the appointment begins (August 10, 2027).

Previous teaching experience at the introductory level.

Experience developing and teaching field-based activities.

Demonstrated commitment to teaching and mentoring practices that advance academic excellence and success of all learner/scholars.

Director, Conservation Technology

POSITION SUMMARY

Rapid advances in technology, from satellite remote sensing to artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, are transforming our ability to understand and protect wildlife. The Center for Conservation Innovation (CCI) at Defenders of Wildlife is seeking an innovative and collaborative leader to serve as Director of Conservation Technology and help harness these advances to scale conservation impact.

Reporting to the Vice President of Conservation Research and Innovation, the Director is a leader within CCI responsible for guiding Defenders’ efforts to leverage data science, technology, and innovation to advance species recovery, conservation planning, conservation monitoring, and evaluation of conservation outcomes. They will lead, develop, and work alongside a small team of scientists and developers applying environmental data science, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and other emerging technologies to strengthen wildlife conservation. This includes setting the team’s strategic direction and overseeing the development of innovative analytical approaches, decision-support tools, and technology-enabled conservation solutions.

Working closely with Defenders’ field, policy, and legal staff, as well as agency partners and other conservation practitioners, the Director will identify priority challenges and opportunities for innovation. Serving as a bridge between conservation practitioners and the research and technology communities, they will help identify, adapt, and deploy practical solutions that improve conservation outcomes and integrate them into Defenders’ legal, policy, and field-based efforts.

The ideal candidate is an ambitious, entrepreneurial, and creative leader driven by the opportunity to translate data and emerging technologies into real-world conservation solutions. They are a strategic thinker and effective communicator with experience leading interdisciplinary teams, building partnerships, and connecting conservation challenges with practical, high-impact technology solutions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leads and develops a team of scientists and technologists:

Oversees the planning, prioritization, and execution of the technology team’s portfolio of projects and initiatives.
Supervises and mentors a small team of scientists, application developers, and occasional volunteers, providing guidance, professional development, and accountability for successful project delivery.
Ensures direction from Defenders’ leadership, including the VP, is shared with and contextualized for supervisees.

Leads Defenders’ data science and conservation technology program:

Guides Defenders’ approach to data science and emerging technologies, identifying opportunities and helping prioritize investments and applications that advance conservation goals and align with organizational priorities.
Serves as a bridge between conservation practitioners and the research and technology communities, connecting priority conservation challenges with innovative analytical and technology solutions.
Advances organizational approaches, partnerships, and policies that support the responsible use and scaling of innovative conservation technologies.

Develops and delivers data-driven conservation solutions:

Prototypes, develops, and deploys innovative tools, analyses, monitoring and evaluation systems, and decision-support resources that address wildlife conservation needs.

Creates dashboards, visualizations, online applications, and other resources that communicate findings and support conservation practitioners.
Translates technical concepts and findings for diverse audiences through communications, advocacy materials, media engagement, and public outreach.

Builds partnerships and advances collaboration:

Cultivates partnerships with conservation organizations, government agencies, Tribal partners, technology companies, and other stakeholders to advance shared conservation goals.
Represents Defenders at meetings, conferences, trainings, and other forums to share innovative approaches, strengthen partnerships, and facilitate adoption of CCI work products.

Travel Requirements: up to 5% of the time.

Perform all other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g. masters) required; PhD preferred

Experience: At least 8 years of relevant experience, including at least 3 years managing staff and leading complex interdisciplinary projects.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.

Required skills:

Demonstrated experience applying data science, geospatial analysis, computational methods, software development, or related disciplines to address conservation planning, recovery, or monitoring challenges.
Ability to listen to conservation practitioners, identify opportunities for innovation, and connect real-world challenges with practical, scalable analytical and technology-enabled solutions.
Experience leading and developing technical teams, including supervising staff and managing applied research, analytical, or technology programs.
Technical expertise in GIS, R/Python, large and complex datasets, cloud-based platforms, remote sensing imagery, and data visualization tools. Experience evaluating and applying artificial intelligence is highly desirable.
Experience building partnerships and collaborating effectively with conservation practitioners, agencies, Tribal partners, academic institutions, technology organizations, and other stakeholders.
Knowledge of the U.S. Endangered Species Act and other federal and state conservation policies relevant to species conservation, recovery, and management.
Strong strategic planning and project management skills, including the ability to prioritize opportunities, align technical work with organizational goals, and manage multiple initiatives.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex technical concepts and analytical findings for decision-makers, practitioners, policymakers, and the public.

Salary Range: $143,000 To $155,000 Annually