Job Tag: Conservation

The Nebraska Forest Service (NFS) is committed to enhancing the well-being of Nebraskans by safeguarding, revitalizing, and maximizing the state’s tree and forest resources. We offer technical and financial support to clients across Nebraska, with a focus on rural forestry, community forestry, forest fuels reduction, forest health, forest products utilization, and fire protection.

We are currently looking for qualified and enthusiastic individuals to join our team of dedicated professionals. The chosen candidate will contribute to our mission by actively participating in efforts to improve Nebraska’s trees and forests’ health, resilience, and sustainability. In this role, the forester will directly assist stakeholders within the program’s focal areas and empower clients to attain their tree and forestry objectives.

As a Conservation Forester, you will:

Implement tree and forestry management programming within the boundaries of the Lower Platte South NRD. Technical assistance will include working with individuals, businesses, and communities to increase their tree and forest productivity, resiliency, and sustainability.
Work with public and private landowners to develop management plans for their property and administer financial assistance programs to implement forest management.
Lead local collaborative efforts with the LPS NRD, partners, and communities to lead impactful forest management projects and identify future program opportunities to address the areas forestry needs.
Coordinate local forestry training and workshops, manage the conservation tree planting program, complete Wildland Urban Interface projects, and develop communication materials.

The position is located at the Lower Platte South NRD office in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Minimum Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resources, horticulture, entomology or closely related field plus one year of experience providing assistance with tree and forest management, natural resources management, forest products, horticulture, entomology or closely related field. Additional relevant education may substitute for experience on a year for year basis.

This position is based at the Hillsborough County Cooperative Extension office in Goffstown, N.H., and leads UNH Extension’s educational, technical and volunteer programming in urban forestry and ecology. New Hampshire is becoming more urbanized, with urban areas projected to increase to over 10% of the state by 2060. Urban and community trees and forests provide a variety of ecological, social and economic values including reduced stormwater runoff, air pollution mitigation, noise reduction, improved air quality, heat island mitigation, carbon sequestration and improved quality of life for communities. A recent Arbor Day Foundation study estimates that N.H.’s urban trees add an estimated $356 million to property values across the state. The Extension field specialist in urban forestry and ecology will engage community leaders and volunteers in training and projects related to tree planting, pruning, care and maintenance, community tree inventory and arboriculture, and enhancing ecosystem services provided by urban and community trees and forests.

This position will work in conjunction with other Extension staff and partners to strengthen and support urban forestry and urban ecology programming with an emphasis on training, supporting and working with volunteers, especially in underserved urban areas (as identified by groups such as the Council on Environmental Quality and American Forests). The field specialist will be part of a collaborative team focused on urban and community forestry with the N.H. Division of Forests and Lands, other Extension natural resources staff, and conservation organizations working in urban areas. The field specialist will contribute data and metrics to Extension natural resources and volunteer program action plans and will support the state urban and community forestry program in collecting data and metrics on community trees and forests, especially those associated with volunteer action.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in appropriate discipline. One degree must be in forestry, ecology, wildlife, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A strong candidate with a bachelor’s degree in forestry, wildlife, urban ecology, or a closely related field from an accredited institution with 3 years of relevant experience may be considered if willing to obtain a master’s degree within 7 years of hire.
Extension (or related) education, outreach and/or related programming experience in urban and/or urbanizing environments.
Experience recruiting, training and managing volunteers.
Demonstrated competency in urban forestry and/or urban ecology and related resources.
Hold arborist certification or be able to obtain within 2 years of hire (e.g., N.H. Arborists Association, equivalent state arborist accreditation, or International Society of Arboriculture)
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with co-workers and people with a variety of values and interests and of all ages, races, ethnic backgrounds, income, and education levels.
Demonstrated competency with computers and current technology.
Willingness to participate in professional development activities to add and enhance knowledge.
Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle and willingness and ability to work some nights and weekends for programs, volunteer projects and events, and meetings as well as accomplish year-round field work. Mileage will be reimbursed at the federal rate.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

At least 3 years of experience in extension or related urban outreach, invasive species management, urban forestry, arboriculture, watershed management, forest management, urban wildlife management, or ecology research focused on urban or urbanizing systems.
Experience using social media to promote events and programming.
Experience in hybrid and/or online course development and instruction.
Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and/or Global Positioning Systems (GPS).
Experience with citizen science research approaches and applications such as iNaturalist, iTree, Litterati, etc.

JOB SUMMARY: This is a new position. The Conservation Engagement Manager will work with the Director of Education and Volunteer Services to evolve general accountabilities and essential functions as projects develop. The Conservation Engagement Manager directs and oversees the development, organization, facilitation, and evaluation of conservation engagement projects at the Aquarium, which may include citizen science projects, collaborative restoration work, field experiences, and program development. The Conservation Engagement manager actively works to engage new and under-reached audiences.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Works with the Director of Education to establish and maintain a vision and a comprehensive plan for conservation engagement at the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Works collaboratively with other departments (education, husbandry, volunteer services) on prioritizing, developing and implementing conservation engagement programs.
Work with the Director of Education to develop programming and prioritize AZA SAFE species and similar projects relevant to the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Work with partners, local, regional, national and possibly internationally, to identify strategies for the Aquarium to actively support and engage with field conservation projects (clarification – at this stage the Aquarium is not starting field conservation projects of its own).
Oversee the creation of a strategic conservation engagement and program portfolio for the Aquarium.
Work with the Director of Education to align CELC (Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers) climate resilience priorities with local community work.
Work with the Director of Education to align Aquarium Conservation Partnership DEAI, climate, and plastic priorities with local community work.
Coordinates, develops, promotes and leads conservation programs, such as citizen science, restoration, or field experiences, with diversified audiences.
Serve as a resource for volunteers by connecting them with organizations, individuals and resources that can support conservation engagement.
Remain up to date on national, Oregon and local conservation engagement projects and trends as well as preferred practices, current research, and topics related to marine and coastal conservation.
Work with other marine and conservation organizations to advance ocean and coastal conservation, such as the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Cascade Head Biosphere Reserve, Watershed Councils, SOLVE, State Parks, ODFW, and the Shark Trust.
Work with education staff to ensure K-12 programming maintains continued relevancy to conservation work.
Present at various speaker opportunities.
Participates on Aquarium committees as an Education Department Representative. Contributes as appropriate and acts as liaison between the department and committee.

The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all inclusive. The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical extension of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

May supervise interns, and volunteers as needed.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)
Required Degree and Experience:

Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in Environmental Studies, Conservation Science or Conservation Education, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in Marine Resource Management, Environmental Studies, Conservation Science or Conservation Education is desirable. A minimum of three years’ experience in a position related to conservation engagement/field work/citizen science is required. Any acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the background necessary to perform the functions of the position may substitute for the above requirements.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of

Program and project management principles and techniques
Preferred practices for engaging a diversity of stakeholders with conservation and field projects.
Extensive knowledge in principles and practices of conservation science and engagement
Multiple learning styles, natural history interpretation or other relevant area, and other techniques relevant to formal and non-formal learning environments
Conservation organizations, businesses and government agencies affecting conservation science and education
Public policy, planning and development
Fundamentals of classroom and group management
Program planning and evaluation processes
Customer service best practices
Group dynamics and group problem-solving techniques, such as leading meetings, gaining support while dealing with complex subjects, resolving conflicts and reaching consensus
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to incorporate different perspectives, and work with diverse populations and stakeholders

Ability to

Research and present educational programs and projects
Effectively organize work, manage time, prioritize tasks, and follow both written and oral direction
Be responsive to and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders served or impacted by programs
Build on current partner relationships and participate in creating new programs
Plan and lead workshops, seminars, and other types of engagement opportunities
Effectively communicate ideas, program concepts and delivery, both orally and in writing
Use computers and standard, commonly accepted computer programs (MS Office products) is required,

Work under limited supervision and as a member of a team.

Examples of Duties

Under general supervision, this position will serve as a professional project manager in the Watershed Restoration Section – Stream Restoration Program of the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability.

Implements water quality/waterway improvement projects such as stream restoration using approaches such as natural channel design and floodplain reconnection to achieve pollutant reduction and ecological restoration.
Assists with resource assessment, prioritization, funding, design, technical review, permitting, construction and post construction monitoring of environmental capital projects.
Serves as lead project manager working collaboratively with professional design consultants, contractors, Federal and State Agencies, other professional staff and citizens of Baltimore County.
Oversees project funding and assisting with grant management and Capital Budget programming.
Assists in the preparation of technical studies and reports on environmental problems.
Performs field assessments of existing and potential stream restoration projects.
Provides technical assistance to property owners requesting assistance with stream bank erosion.

Examples of Other Duties

Represents the department before community groups and serves as the department’s representative on intra-county, community, or other committees.
Assists other professionals in technical studies, research and preparation of reports.
Performs other related duties as required.

(NOTE: The duties and responsibilities listed above are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications for all positions in this class. They may not include all of the essential job functions of each position in the class. Each position may not be required to perform all of the essential job functions listed.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in environmental, regional, urban or city planning, or in a natural resource, environmental or a biological science.

Plus

At least two years’ professional experience in a planning, science or related field.

Additional education in one of the areas listed may be substituted for the required experience on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

College coursework, internships and/or work experience in stream restoration, watershed science, fluvial geomorphology, hydrology and hydraulics, water quality, and/or stream ecology.
Experience as a Project Manager/Stream Restoration Specialist managing environmental assessments and engineering plan development, including design, technical review, construction oversight, monitoring, and approval of capital stream restoration, water quality improvements BMPs, and floodplain/wetland creation.
Experience with negotiation and resolution of complex technical issues.
Ability to read and comprehend contracts, specifications, and construction plans.

American Bird Conservancy and partners of the Rio Grande Joint Venture (RGJV) are hiring rangeland monitoring technicians to survey grassland/rangeland conservation projects on private lands in south Texas. Projects were initially designed to create and improve grassland habitat for priority grassland birds and other priority wildlife through implemented habitat management practices. Technicians will collect vegetation data on these sites using the line-point intercept and canopy gap methods following protocols similar to Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy and the Natural Resource Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Natural Resources Inventory (NRI).

Plant identification will be an important part of this data collection, as detecting changes in plant communities over time is integral to the project’s success. Technicians will be trained by RGJV staff and possibly other professionals in the field. However, successful candidates will already have strong Texas plant ID experience, experience with plant and/or rangeland surveys, and a strong, independent work ethic.

Primary Duties:

Primary duties include, but are not limited to:

1. Vegetation surveys following the line-point intercept method, canopy gap method, and additional measures of vegetation and rangeland health.

2. Identification of common plant species and plant species considered a priority to habitat management of grasslands. Other species will be identified to key functional groups.

3. Coordinating with local biologists, RGJV staff, and landowners to gain access to private lands as needed. Additionally, coordinating with biologists to receive local training on plant ID, protocol updates, etc. as needed.

Candidates will be expected to work long hours with early starts in relatively difficult field conditions (e.g., high temperatures, exposure to the elements (sun, wind, rain), intense hiking, active cattle pastures, venomous snakes, cactus, chiggers, ticks, etc.).

· Housing will be arranged and may include bunkhouses, AirBnBs, and hotels. As such, candidates should be flexible about housing, are expected to adhere to current health advisories, and will be respectful of those around them.

· Technicians will regularly be interacting with Rio Grande Joint Venture partner organizations/agencies and landowners. As such, technicians must have excellent interpersonal skills as they will be expected to represent the RGJV and may be required to professionally interact with landowners in person or over the phone.

· Technicians will be required to drive a personal vehicle to and from field sites.

o Mileage will be reimbursed ($ 0.67/mile) for personal vehicles driven for work purposes during the field season.

o Personal vehicles should be in good condition and able to handle dirt/gravel/sandy roads. *Note that road conditions may be difficult in some areas depending on weather.

This is an opportunity to be part of a large-scale grassland conservation effort involving partner conservation agencies and organizations in Texas. This is the third year of the study, so flexibility and patience will be an asset.

Requirements

Experience with Texas plant identification, especially grasses and forbs
Experience with vegetation surveys
Experience with rangeland monitoring (e.g. NRCS’ NRI) is preferred but not required
Experience with collecting data using Survey123 is preferred but not required
Meticulous data collection skills
Excellent navigational abilities
Ability to work independently
Excellent inter-personal skills
Valid driver’s license
Must be = 18 years old, eligible to work in the US, and willing to undergo a background check
Must be willing to gain basic Red Cross CPR/First Aid Training (online course expense to be covered by American Bird Conservancy)

Context: At the Sierra Club, we believe in the power of togetherness. Together, we remain committed to the fight for a healthy climate built on a foundation of environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice – a future where all people benefit from a healthy, thriving planet and a direct connection to nature. As the climate crisis and deeply entrenched systemic racism all fuel inequity, we will continue to fight for a bold, transformational agenda that recognizes the interconnectedness between our planet, our humanity, and our democracy. By recognizing that our destinies are tied, we continue to name that all things are fundamentally connected, and the overlap between ecology, race, gender, and representative government will move to either advance our collective humanity or to oppress it.

Sierra Club is comprised of staff across the country and a network of volunteer leaders and local chapters that support our grassroots engagement. We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with two labor unions representing more than half of our employees.

Scope: The director helps develop and carry out the policies, priorities, and objectives of the Executive Committee for the assigned areas of chapter programs and operations. These assigned areas include but are not limited to: conservation, political and legislative programs, assuring equity and inclusion, fundraising, volunteer development and member services, administration, budgeting and financial management, and media relations. The director manages other chapter staff. The director represents the South Carolina Chapter and the Sierra Club to government officials, the media, business and community leaders, donors, allies, other organizations, and the public. Evening and weekend work is often required.
Job activities include:

Facilitates and contributes to development of the Chapter’s short- and long-term strategic, programmatic and financial goals. All planning activity takes place in coordination with the Executive Committee, relevant Chapter Committees, Chapter Treasurer, and PAC Treasurer. Develops annual goals and budget and evaluates Chapter performance.
Directs Chapter fundraising activities including pursuing grants, writing fund appeals, cultivation of major donors and other fundraising activities. Responsible for overseeing the development of an annual fundraising plan and meeting fundraising goals in coordination with development staff, and with support of the volunteer Fundraising Committee. May include committee member recruitment and leadership development.
Manages Chapter staff. Leads staff in assigned operational or program areas. Writes, conducts, and reviews staff performance appraisals using solicited input from the Executive Committee, Chapter Chair, and/or others as appropriate. Reviews staff time reports and ensures that these reports are completed in an accurate and timely manner in accordance with Sierra Club policies.
Oversees Chapter compliance. Ensures compliance with Sierra Club policies, with legal requirements for use of Sierra Club resources among staff, and with Sierra Club’s employment policies and practices. Supports volunteer leaders in ensuring compliance in the broader Sierra Club program. Ensures compliance with all applicable laws (local, state, and national) pertaining to chapter operations.
Oversees the development, tracking, and management of campaign plans and goals. Ensures that Sierra Club national priorities are reflected in the Chapter’s work.
Coordinates media and public relations efforts in coordination with communications staff. Plans and implements an effective public relations program and develops positive, regular contacts with the media to maximize the Chapter’s credibility. Ensures that an adequate number of knowledgeable and representative spokespersons are available to address the public and the media. Ensures that the Chapter’s digital strategy is effective.
Supports the Executive Committee in recruiting and motivating volunteer leaders.
Engages in outreach and coalition-building. Ensures the Chapter and its leaders participate in meetings, task forces, and events. Builds strong relationships with the Chapter’s Groups, state and regional community leaders, coalitions, other organizations, elected officials, governmental agencies, etc. Represents the Chapter when appropriate.
Attends Chapter meetings. Attends periodic Executive Committee and Conservation Committee meetings. Is available as needed on weekends and after hours, to participate in key meetings with staff, volunteers or others. Occasional local, state and national travel is required.
Assists the Chapter Conservation Chair in the planning and implementation of core conservation efforts and programs.
Leading and managing annual and quarterly fundraising efforts for the chapter.
Able to travel as needed. Valid driver’s license, satisfactory driving record, and proof of auto insurance required.

The successful candidate must have the following skills and experience:

Experience in grassroots organizing, training, motivating volunteers, coalition building and lobbying.
A proven track record of understanding systems of oppression and a commitment to continuously deepening your study and learning, as well as experience operationalizing belonging, dignity, and justice throughout team/department policies, structures, culture, and programs. Additionally, you easily recognize your own relationship to privilege and power, examining and shifting your behaviors as appropriate.
As a member of the state leadership team, this individual is expected to have a focused and sustained attention towards calling out and challenging systems, policies, practices, or procedures that have racist effects.
Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, analysis, decision making and reporting.
Excellent donor relations skills and understanding of the funding community. Previous success in establishing relationships with individuals and organizations of influence including funders, partner agencies, and volunteers. A history of successfully generating new revenue streams and improving financial results.
Organizational conflict resolution experience and committed communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to implement plans, communicate changes effectively, build consensus, monitor transitions, and evaluate results.

The strongest candidates will also demonstrate the following experience, skills and competencies:

Non-profit management or Board experience.
Expertise in the practice of cultural competency and sensitivity to the social, economic, and other barriers impacting minority populations in the state, at the moment of prioritizing and developing short and long term campaign plans/goals.
Experience in energy, climate, and/or environmental policy.
Experience and knowledge of state and federal legislative processes; relationships with media, elected officials, lobbyists.
Excellent computer skills and familiarity with online communications and office productivity tools. Exceptional curiosity, critical thinking, and clarity.

Actively supports and upholds the City’s stated mission and values. Under direct supervision of the Open Space Supervisor, employees of this classification are responsible for professional expertise in the performance of day-to-day operations associated with the City’s Open Space Program, including coordination of the Open Space Stewards program, coordination of partner relationships, community education and public engagement, management of volunteer infrastructure projects, conserving land, assisting in developing organizational land management policies, supporting reports to ensure all applicable Federal, State, and Local rules and regulations related to cultural and natural resource management are met, and acting as a liaison to the Picture Canyon Working Group. An important aspect of this position is the responsibility of assisting with various projects and obligations related to the City’s protected Open Space.

ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

Supervisory: This job does not have formal supervisory responsibilities but coordinates the work of interns and volunteers. This role will provide input for performance evaluations, discipline, or hiring, but is not responsible for final decisions.
Budgetary: This job has partial responsibility at the program level including assisting with budget tracking and reporting and assisting with grant applications.
Strategic Planning: This job has partial responsibility for strategic planning at the program level including assisting with identifying, developing, and implementing long and short-term goals and objectives, with main position responsibilities for carrying out day-to-day activities in order to reach goals and objectives.
Policies/Procedures: This job carries out day-to-day activities in accordance with established policies and procedures and has partial responsibility for compliance at the program level.
Compliance: This job carries out day-to-day activities in accordance with Federal, State, and Local laws, rules, and regulations as well as City policies and procedures.
Council Communications: This job has partial responsibility for Council communication at the program level including written and oral reports and updates on special events and the Open Space Stewards Program. This reporting is primarily done to the Open Spaces Commission, the Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and the Bicycle Advisory Committee.
Reporting: This job has partial responsibility for reporting to Federal/State/Local agencies at the program level including reporting fund expenditures, measurements, and outcomes to Arizona State Parks in response to grant funding and conservation easements.

Examples of the Work Performed

Provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers.
Recruits and trains new volunteers.
Assesses individual volunteer skills levels and interests and tailors them to appropriate jobs.
Maintains communications with volunteers and community partners to stay abreast of programming needs and opportunities.
Maintains databases that accurately reflect Open Space programs, volunteer hours and needed projects.
Schedules volunteers for specific events and purposes.
Organizes and maintains volunteer software and records including volunteer waivers, contact information, and emergency information.
Supervises implementation and enforcement of risk management and safety policies, regulations, and procedures, monitors accident, incident, and emergency reports.
Assesses the success of the volunteer programming and makes recommendations for improvement.
Coordinates programs and activities with schools, community groups, and other agencies to maximize services and create partnerships.
Coordinates marketing efforts to expand public outreach and promote greater understanding of Open Space programs and events.
Assist with managing open space activities and infrastructure including site analysis, habitat restoration, trail use, and resource management.
Assist with securing funds to promote outdoor education and complete the open space system.
Acts as Staff Liaison to the Picture Canyon Working Group including developing and sending agendas and minutes.
Provides educational programming on natural and cultural resources of open space.
Develops educational materials and interpretive signage for open space areas.
Coordinates public outreach and special events related to open space.
Designs lessons and builds partnerships for teaching environmental Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education that is culturally relevant and relatable.
Engages and provides training to K- 12 teachers on open space science, lesson plans, and field trips.
Assist with scheduling and planning public meetings and organizes citizen involvement in open space planning.
Researches, develops, implements, monitors, and completes infrastructure improvement projects.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Associate degree in Environmental Science, Public Relations, Administration, or related field.
Two years of experience coordinating volunteer programs.
Two years of social media coordination.
Two years of experience developing and implementing outdoor educational STEAM related programming.
Or any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the above Minimum Requirements.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Two years of experience in resource conservation and/or sustainability practices.
Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Public Relations, Administration, or related field.

The James River Association (JRA) is seeking four Seasonal Stewardship Assistants: two to be located near Charlottesville, VA and two to be located near Farmville, VA. The two near Charlottesville will work out of the Louisa County NRCS office and cover Albemarle, Fluvanna, and Nelson Counties. The two near Farmville will work out of the Amelia NRCS office and cover Amelia, Powhatan and Goochland Counties. The timeframe for this position is May 20-August 12, 2023, with a 2 week flexibility on start and end dates. Most of the work will be in the field with the option for office-related work to be telework from home and/or from a partner office in the respective areas.

Position Summary:

JRA is seeking four Seasonal Stewardship Assistants to join our Restoration team. The primary focus of this position will be to perform site assessments of riparian forest buffers as part of the James River Stewardship Program (JRSP), which was launched in 2022. This program was developed to assess and perform needed maintenance on riparian forest buffers installed 3-15 years ago through the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), Virginia Agricultural Cost-Share Program (VACS), and the James River Buffer Program (JRBP). Assessments include visual observation of invasive plant species and native tree establishment, and light tree shelter maintenance at the select project locations. The position will be employed by JRA, but will also be working closely with Virginia Department of Forestry, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Soil and Water Conservation District staff. JRA will provide each pair of Assistants access to one vehicle to share, laptops, and supplies needed for assessments. Housing is not provided.

This seasonal opportunity is a perfect match for students or individuals wanting to learn about natural resource management, work with private and public landowners, connect with a broad partnership of conservation professionals, and get their hands dirty while improving the landscape for water quality, wildlife habitat, and human communities. Note that it will include a lot of driving, possibly working in extreme weather conditions and traversing difficult terrain. This position will receive on the ground training in Wilderness First Aid, plant identification, and buffer maintenance and assessment by JRA and partner staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Work with one other Seasonal Stewardship Assistant to assess ~200 acres of riparian forest buffer projects installed 3-15 years ago on primarily agricultural lands
Data management related to site assessments
Work with one other Seasonal Stewardship Assistant to develop draft recommendation reports that include an invasive species management plan and replanting plan for ~200 acres of assessed riparian forest buffers
Meet regularly with NRCS, DOF, SWCD, and JRA partners
Other duties as assigned such as buffer maintenance, blog writing, workshops with landowners, or other activities related to buffer stewardship

Qualifications:

A successful candidate will possess the following:

Some experience (education or lived) in restoration, agriculture, or forestry
Interest in learning how to identify native and invasive plant types found in riparian habitats
Comfort communicating with rural and agricultural landowners and comfortable in farm landscape
Willing to participate in JRA’s random drug testing policy for vehicle operators and attendants
Ability to perform physical work, navigate uneven terrain, and work in various weather conditions such as heat, rain, and cold
A valid driver’s license
Computer skills, particularly in word processing and record-keeping (Microsoft Word and Excel), and familiarity with internet communication and search tools. GIS experience is a plus, but not required.
Excellent at problem-solving, meeting deadlines, following schedules, and overall time management
Ability to coordinate with partners and collaborators via email and phone

Strong communications, analytical skills, teamwork, integrity, and reliability

Compensation: JRA offers a dynamic and flexible work environment. Pay is set at $15/hour, 30-40 hours a week for 12 weeks. This position is part-time, non-exempt. JRA is an equal-opportunity employer.

The Marine Scientist is part of Oceana’s climate and energy campaigns including stopping the expansion of offshore oil and gas drilling and advancing national policies to address climate change. The Marine Scientist will serve as an expert on climate and energy issues including oil and gas pollution, seismic impacts to marine life, and emissions reductions. The scientist will research and support the development of future campaign goals, develop written materials including reports, comments and media statements, develop action plans and implement projects, and help to shape the strategy and direction of new and existing campaigns and initiatives. The marine scientist will have extensive contact with research scientists and representatives of government agencies and other stakeholders. The position reports to the Campaign Director and is based in the Washington, DC office. They must be able to travel as necessary.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities Essential Functions:

Provide the scientific foundation for Oceana scientific reports and external communications including researching, drafting, reviewing content, and providing scientific quality control on materials such as reports, public comment letters, petitions, outreach materials, and FOIA requests.
Create advocacy and public documents, including comment letters, backgrounders, position papers, and reports, in support of Oceana campaign goals and non-campaign policy projects.
Participate in Oceana campaign and project teams.
Carry out research on Oceana’s campaign topics and other subjects relevant to Oceana’s objectives.
Analyze documents in support of campaign goals and legal cases.
Gather pertinent information and data and report on findings.
Communicate with outside scientists to mobilize support for ocean health, fisheries and conservation objectives, including scientist sign-on letters and technical peer reviews.
Meet with Congressional and government agency representatives to communicate Oceana’s objectives as needed.
Represent Oceana at external events as needed, including conferences, symposia, meetings, and hearings.
Maintain subject matter expertise by following the current literature, attending relevant meetings, and communicating with peers in the field.
Assist communications staff in generating press coverage, including articles, editorials, op-eds, letters to the editors.
Serve as a spokesperson for Oceana and its campaigns to various media outlets, conferences and other events as needed.
Assist legal staff by evaluating the need for legal support in promoting ocean conservation, aiding in development of potential cases, and by advising and implementing strategies to support litigation.
Assist in preparation of internal reports for the Board of Directors and foundations.
Manage a varied and high-volume workload and work independently to meet deadlines and accomplish tasks.
Undertake additional projects as requested by senior staff and perform other duties for all Oceana departments as needed and or assigned.

Job Requirements

Education and work experience:

Master’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline such as marine biology, ecology, oceanography, fisheries and wildlife conservation and biology, natural resource management. Relevant study and economic analysis experience is also helpful.
At least two years of professional experience in marine science or policy.
Experience with U.S. marine wildlife and fisheries laws, regulations and policies as they relate to marine mammals, sea turtles and/or fisheries, as well as oil pollution and seismic impacts is preferred.
Experience drafting advocacy letters and other documents.
GIS proficiency required.
Experience working and building relationships across different cultures and working to meet tight deadlines, completing unexpected projects, collaborating with members of a professional staff, and effectively managing a demanding workload.

Skills and knowledge:

Ability to accurately synthesize large amounts of information, quickly identify relevant issues or questions, and recommend responses or solutions.
Excellent writing, editing, communication, organizational and research skills. Strong ability to write for various audiences with different levels of expertise and to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely.
Skilled at organizing and prioritizing multiple projects and completing tasks with accuracy and independence.
Knowledge of the scientific underpinning of the major marine conservation issues, including oil pollution impacts, seismic noise impacts, biodiversity loss and habitat degradation.
Proficiency in additional research skills (e.g., database management, statistical design and modeling, DNA sampling) desirable.
Ability to accommodate a varied and high-volume workload in a fast-paced campaign environment. Flexible and collaborative member of a multidisciplinary team. Occasional long or irregular hours and travel will be required.

Ability to handle many tasks simultaneously, with speed, accuracy, and courtesy, show initiative, and exhibit insightful planning and understanding of abstract concepts.
Ability to represent Oceana in a professional, courteous, and responsive manner with scientists, policymakers, stakeholders and the media.