Director of Lands and Natural Resources

JOB SUMMARY: The Director of Lands and Natural Resources oversees all aspects of land and resource management activities, including strategic planning, land transactions, and natural resource management. This role requires strong leadership, communication, strategic thinking skills, and knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Embrace the values of The Aleut Corporation (Aleut) including honesty, integrity, accountability, respect, and perseverance.
Attend regular meetings with diverse stakeholders from private industry, government agencies, Aleut partner organizations and other stakeholders.
Development and management of annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
Responsible for development and implementation of strategic priorities for Aleut lands and resources, for the benefit of Aleut shareholders.
Proactive management of land leases, land use permitting and materials management agreements with Aleut partners.
In conjunction with Aleut leadership, regular engagement with Aleut-affiliated village corporations, tribes and other regional stakeholders.
Regular contact with federal and state agencies related to Aleut lands (e.g., BIA, BLM, USF&WS, DOI, DNR, DEC, etc.)
Tracking and oversight of the fulfillment of Aleut’s federal land conveyances and entitlements – surface and subsurface.
Monitor and report on updates and changes to regulatory, administrative and legislative changes in relation to ANCSA land policy.
Works closely with Aleut grants department in the identification, application and execution of state and federal grants that add value to Aleut.
Negotiate, prepare, and manage diverse agreements and contracts related to Aleut lands and resources.
Prepare high level written reports and communications as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to adapt quickly to changes.
Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple projects with diverse personnel.
Proficiency in understanding and negotiating detailed agreements (land, lease, etc.).
Strong relationship-building skills with customers, executives, government officials and Aleut stakeholders.
Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
Understanding of environmental regulations and experience managing compliant projects.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for fostering positive stakeholder relationships.
Experience in negotiating and managing land transactions.
Good decision-making skills and judgment.
Knowledge of Alaska land and resource management laws and regulations.
Familiarity with ANCSA land regulations and provisions.
Knowledge of the Aleut region and its cultural and economic landscape is a plus.
Strategic thinking and the ability to develop and implement high-level plans and initiatives.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead and manage a team.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Strong problem-solving, analytical, creative, and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in land management, natural resources, business administration, or a related field.
Seven (7) years of experience in land and resource management.

Nesting Field Technician

The Research Department has one of the longest running sea turtle monitoring programs in Florida. The department is seeking nesting field technicians to assist with long-term sea turtle nesting surveys on a high density 9.5-mile stretch of beach. The survey area annually hosts at least 40,000 sea turtle crawls from March–October, and technicians will gain experience conducting nesting surveys for leatherback, loggerhead, and green sea turtles. The term of the positions will be flexible to start in April or early May with the possibility of extending into September or October. Some individuals may start in March if we are contracted for night monitoring work in conjunction with sand placement projects. The position is hourly and non-exempt, and the number of work hours will vary over the course of the season and will range 15–40 hours per week. The technicians’ hourly rate will be commensurate with experience and education. Housing is not provided.

Core Responsibilities

Conduct daily nesting surveys on an ATV starting at sunrise (at work as early as 5:30 AM)
Document sea turtle nesting activity and identify each crawl to species and crawl type
Locate egg chamber and mark nests for evaluation
Conduct nest checks and excavations
Document beach obstructions and disorientations
Enter data into a Trimble GPS unit, on paper data sheets, and in our database in office
Conduct night-monitoring work and relocations for sand placement projects, as
Assist with stranding reports of sick, injured, or deceased sea turtles as needed.
Conduct sample collection for various research projects.
Contribute and compile content for our Marketing department.
Responsible for basic ATV care including cleaning and fueling.
Technicians will be required to attend seasonal crew meetings, typically held every three weeks from May through August.

Requirements

Current undergraduate or recent graduate with a Biological Science related degree
A minimum of three months’ experience conducting field work
In good physical condition with the ability to work outdoors under extremely adverse conditions for up to 12 hours (high humidity, rain, heat and direct sunlight)
Strong communication skills
Ability to engage professionally with the public
Ability to learn complex tasks quickly and manage high stress work environment
Attention to detail and strong problem-solving abilities
Ability to work independently and in a group
Technicians will be expected to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays.
Technicians will generally not be allowed lengthy periods of time off during their employment at LMC. All time off must be approved well in advance of the nesting season, so that accommodation can be made to replace you in your absence.
Technicians may be required to use their personal vehicles to drive back and forth from Tequesta in the event a company vehicle is unavailable for use and will be reimbursed for mileage at a standard GSA rate.
Must possess a valid driver’s license
Must possess a working cell phone
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Preferred Skills

Experience collecting field data quickly and accurately using a Trimble GPS
Ability to operate an all-terrain vehicle (ATV)
Experience conducting sea turtle nesting surveys

Senior Director of Conservation Science

The Senior Director of Conservation Science (Senior Director) is an exciting, highly-influential role responsible for providing science-based leadership in support of Mass Audubon’s commitment to address our climate and biodiversity crisis across the Commonwealth and serve as a model for the nation. The role will define and lead the organization’s scientific agenda and priorities using an evidence-based approach that relies on data, research, and applied science to guide Mass Audubon’s conservation actions and policies. This position is a member of Mass Audubon’s Conservation Division and reports to the Chief Conservation Officer.

This role oversees all aspects of the organization’s scientific endeavors including identifying conservation issues and priorities, providing authoritative, technical leadership and collaborating with internal and external partners to design and implement solutions. The conservation scope of this role is broad and extends from addressing the ecological health and resilience of Mass Audubon’s wildlife sanctuary network to positioning Mass Audubon to tackle broader conservation challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change and inequitable access to nature in our region. As such, a successful candidate will have substantive scientific knowledge and will maintain a perspective and professional network at the regional, state, national, and international levels in relevant disciplines.

This Senior Director serves as the organization’s lead scientific ambassador and spokesperson and as such is a vocal champion of Mass Audubon’s ecological assets and science-based strategies. They will develop key partnerships with public and private organizations to identify, resolve, and communicate solutions and best practices. The candidate must possess strong communication skills that support effective interactions with scientists, partners, colleagues, staff, governance, and volunteers. In addition, they will also serve as a scientific resource to conservation partners, foundations, the academic community, and the government agencies of the Commonwealth.

Equally important in an ideal candidate is the ability to lead and manage people and to motivate a diverse community of individuals towards mission-based goals. The Senior Director oversees an experienced, decentralized team of scientific experts in terrestrial and coastal ecology and restoration as well as data analytics and management. In addition, the role collaborates with peer departments to achieve a full range of conservation strategies and holds relationships with academic and NGO partners to support a focused research portfolio that supports Mass Audubon’s conservation agenda. The Senior Director leads this broad team in the design and implementation of adaptive, successful conservation plans that serve as a roadmap for on-the-ground action at multiple scales.

This role provides the opportunity for an experienced, results-driven, conservation professional to provide a leading voice on the critical conservation issues facing Massachusetts and New England. As a senior leader in the organization, this position will contribute to the design of organizational initiatives and strategies, implementation of strategic program plans, and establishment of organizational operating policies and positions.

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Strong scientific understanding stemming from an advanced degree in natural sciences, ecology, or related field and/or at least 10 years of experience in natural resources management, conservation research, or other natural science-based endeavor
Knowledge of North American ecosystems (specifically the Northeast) is a plus
Strong analytical skills and familiarity with a range of tools, methodologies and systems including GIS, spatial analytics, and data management systems
Demonstrated ability to lead individuals and teams in setting priorities and designing strategies, goals, and implementation plans that address critical conservation issues; experience with leadership in a non-profit organization is a plus
Proven ability to organize, inspire, and support people with diverse backgrounds and different reporting relationships to create a common program or shared result
Proven business acumen including a results-driven perspective and the ability to develop and analyze plans and budgets and to meet deadlines and goals in a fast-paced work environment
Demonstrated experience in the recruitment, effective management, and development of a high-performing team of staff and volunteers
Proven ability to develop and nurture a deep network of relationships in the government, nonprofit and academic sectors and to manage strong relationships with funders
Exceptional communication skills (written and oral) and a proven comfort with sharing scientific concepts with a broad range of audiences
Ability to collaborate as a dominant working style
A valid driver’s license and the physical capacity to travel frequently and extensively within the state and region

Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $140,000-$150,000 per year; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements.

Benefits eligible staff at Mass Audubon may elect to enroll in medical, dental, and vision plans. Mass Audubon also offers disability and life insurance plans, a retirement plan through MetLife, and Flexible Spending Account options. Mass Audubon employment also includes access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and the Reciprocity Agreement through the Consortium of Non-Profit Arts/Cultural/Environmental Organizations of New England. Mass Audubon employees also enjoy 13 paid holidays (holidays may shift annually due to where days fall within calendar).

Work Schedule
Full-time schedule of 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Natural Resources Specialist V

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Under the direction of the Regional Director, this position performs highly advanced (senior-level) natural resources work. Responsible for the coordination, implementation, and field collection of biological, sociological, and economic data pertaining to the fisheries and ecosystem management within the Matagorda Bay Ecosystem. Provides leadership for staff and field station administration. Performs data analysis and writes summary reports on the data collected from the ecosystem. Develops a thorough knowledge and understanding of the ecosystem. Operates equipment safely and maintains gear, equipment and facilities. Participates in professional arenas and promotes public awareness of Department activities. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s OR higher degree in Aquatic/Fisheries Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Resource Management or closely related field.

Experience:

Three years of progressively responsible experience in ecosystem/fisheries resources-related research, planning, program development, grant and project management and field executed management programs;

Two years of experience as a full-line supervisor OR Three years of experience in a non-supervisory position that required leadership skills and implementing program directives;

Must have publication record in ecosystem/fisheries resources related research.

NOTE: Experience may have occurred concurrently.

Licensure:

Must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a class “C” Texas driver’s license.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS:

Experience:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s degree in Aquatic/Fisheries Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Resource Management or closely related field may substitute for one year of the required experience in ecosystem/fisheries resources-related research, planning, program development, grant and project management and field executed management programs;

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a PhD in Aquatic/Fishery Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Resource Management or closely related field may substitute for two years of the required experience in ecosystem/fisheries resources-related research, planning, program development, grant and project management and field executed management programs.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s of Administration or Master’s of Science degree with a specialization in Aquatic Biology, Fisheries Science, Environmental Science, Zoology (aquatic emphasis), Toxicology (aquatic emphasis) or a related discipline providing a strong technical background in aquatic Biology, Limnology, Chemistry and/or Hydrology.

Experience:

Publication in peer reviewed journal with inclusion of statistical analysis of fisheries/resource data;

Supervisory experience in a resource management related field with a staff of five (5) or more.

Staff Biologist

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program (STCRP) has monitored sea turtle activity for nearly four decades. The program supports conservation of the marine turtles (Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas) of the central Gulf Coast of Florida through the collection of fundamental biological data about the nesting, hatching, foraging, and migrations of sea turtles in Sarasota County. The STCRP is a community-based program consisting of 5-7 staff members, 10-15 interns, and approximately 300 volunteers who monitor 35 miles of beach for sea turtle activity. The STCRP also works with agencies throughout the state to support conservation efforts for these federally protected marine turtles.

Job Description:

Intern Coordination o Liaise with Intern office related to intern hiring, issues, etc. o Take lead on intern hiring process o Oversee intern performance and formal feedback (mid-way evaluation and exit interview) o Provide conflict resolution for intern-involved issues and escalate as needed o Coordinate extracurricular activities for interns throughout internship o Develop/execute intern appreciation o Remain point of contact for interns after exit for all letter of recommendation requests

Equipment Management o Inventory and maintain equipment including ATVs, trailers, and field equipment o Transport ATVs to and from beaches and repair shop when necessary prior to, during, and after field season o Communicate and coordinate parking/beach access and equipment storage locations with private property owners/managers o Maintain address reference sheets

Conduct field Work o Fulfill requirements of an FWC Marine Turtle Permit Holders o Assist in selection, training, supervision, and performance evaluations of interns on beach and in office o Identify sea turtle crawls by species o Locate, document and mark (via GPS coordinates, stakes, and triangulation) sea turtle nest sites in accordance to local and FWC protocols o Relocate sea turtle nests, when necessary

Respond to depredations, washouts, disorientations, vandalism/poaching and any other events that negatively impact sea turtle nests o Build and install predator-proof cages o Monitor restraining cages (may require evening and overnight hours) as needed o Excavate nests to determine hatch success (and stage of embryonic death in unhatched eggs, when necessary) o Rescue, release, and transport hatchlings o Communicate with individuals and organizations requiring beach clearances o Educate volunteers, interns, and the general public on sea turtle biology and conservation

Participate in research o Develop and participate in research projects o Search and apply for relevant grants as related o Attend regional, state, and national/international meetings and/or training workshops on sea turtle biology and issues

Other Miscellaneous tasks for program, as needed

Minimum qualifications:

Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Zoology, Conservation, Ecology, or Marine Science required
Previous experience with marine turtle monitoring Valid driver’s license

Knowledge, skills and abilities required:

Experience conducting nesting surveys and associated activities
Computer software proficiency, especially with email, Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Publisher, Google Earth (knowledge of Microsoft Access, Arc View GIS and ACDSee is also desirable)
Experience supervising, coordinating, and training personnel
Familiarity with All Terrain Vehicle operations (ATV) and ability to trailer vehicles

Capable of working with little or no daily supervision

Team player with a positive attitude

Keen attention to detail

Capable of working well under pressure

Capable of prioritizing work load

Fast worker/learner

Ability to multitask

Ability to interact with different personalities in a professional manner

Excellent communication skills

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Capacity to tolerate hot, sandy, buggy, or rainy field conditions

Ability to speak comfortably in front of a crowd and on camera

Working Conditions/Hours:

Field work can be strenuous, may require walking long distances in soft sand, and is conducted every morning of the nesting season despite inclement weather. Hot, buggy, sandy, or wet conditions can be expected.

Working hours for this position are flexible, depending upon meeting the necessary monitoring during sea turtle nesting season. This position will require working on a weekend rotation with other staff members. This is a 40 hour per week position, though longer hours may be required during nesting season.

Agricultural Conservation Technician

GENERAL SUMMARY:

This position requires a highly motivated individual to establish effective working relationships with the farm community and landowners for soil and water conservation and for agricultural education. The position will also work with county agriculture producers to implement conservation practices and best management practices on farms through the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP) and Schuylkill Chesapeake Bay Countywide Action Plan (CAP).

Duties include connecting with farmers and assessing their conservation needs, informing producers about state and federal programs and encouraging their participation, overseeing eligibility and reviewing applications for programs, maintaining required reporting, and attending governmental and other relevant meetings.

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Implement the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP) and Schuylkill Chesapeake Bay Countywide Action Plan (CAP) for the implementation and construction of best management practices (BMPs) on eligible farms.

· Coordinate with US Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to evaluate agricultural operations to identify recommended best management practices (BMPs).

· Oversee outreach and education and assist farmers with understanding the program guidelines.

· Review and approve applications along with District and NRCS staff.

· Manage awarded contracts and inspect completed projects before approving final payments.

· Administer funds and submit project and expense quarterly reports.

· Assist farms in understanding their obligations under PA Chapter 102, Manure Management and Nutrient Management laws.

· Advance District partnerships with cooperating agencies and partners.

· Perform education and outreach activities to inform farmers about conservation best practices and available funding opportunities.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

· Degree in agriculture, agronomy, environmental studies, natural resource management, engineering or similar area of study, or a commensurate amount of work experience.

· Basic knowledge of soil and water conservation issues, best management practices (BMPs), and applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules and regulations. Additional training in state and federal programs will be provided by SCD and partners.

· Ability to read and interpret administrative procedures manuals, technical literature, and topographic maps.

· Excellent project management skills, ability to plan, implement and oversee all phases of a project from planning through final reporting.

· Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals and groups, both verbally and in writing.

· Knowledge of computer word processing, spreadsheets, and databases and the ability to operate computers.

· Maintain all appropriate records for all grants and delegated programs including quarterly reporting and reimbursement requests.

· Assist with demonstration projects, field days, workshops and tours.

· Assist other District staff with projects and programs as needed, including Envirothon, training events, workshops, field days and other educational activities.

· Provide administrative construction oversight on projects, some which may include bidding and prevailing wage in accordance with state law.

· Possess a valid driver’s license and safely operate motor vehicles while carrying out assigned duties.

· Other duties as assigned.

Environmental Foundation Farm Supervisor

The Gulch Environmental Foundation tackles climate change through action, focusing carbon sequestration through projects like regenerative farming.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Supervisor to lead teams and oversee operations within our Environmental Foundation. The Supervisor will ensure the effective execution of environmental projects, promote sustainable practices, and support the foundation’s mission to protect and restore ecosystems. This role requires strong leadership, project management, and communication skills. You must be willing to travel to our farm, which is approximately an hour away from Oklahoma City, on a frequent basis.

Key Responsibilities:

Team Leadership:
Supervise and mentor team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
Conduct performance reviews, provide feedback, and identify professional development opportunities.
Coordinate staff schedules and assign tasks to meet project timelines and goals.
Project Oversight:
Plan, implement, and monitor environmental programs and initiatives.
Track project progress, manage budgets, and ensure timely delivery of objectives.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address challenges and optimize outcomes.
Community Engagement:
Represent the foundation in public forums, stakeholder meetings, and community outreach events.
Build and maintain relationships with partners, donors, and local communities.
Educate the public about environmental issues and the foundation’s mission.
Operational Management:
Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and organizational policies.
Prepare reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
Identify and mitigate risks associated with projects and operations.
Sustainability Advocacy:
Promote sustainable practices within the foundation and its projects.
Stay updated on emerging environmental trends and innovative solutions.
Develop strategies to enhance the foundation’s impact and visibility.

Qualifications:

Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Environmental Policy, or a related field.
Advanced degrees or certifications in sustainability, project management, or related disciplines are a plus.
Experience:
Minimum of 3-5 years in environmental program management, supervision, or related roles.
Proven track record of successfully leading teams and managing projects.
Skills and Competencies:
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Proficiency in project management software and tools.
Analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.
Other Requirements:
Commitment to environmental conservation and the foundation’s mission.
Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as needed.

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and benefits package.
Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on environmental conservation.
Professional development and training opportunities.
Supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Restoration Assistant

Please note this a part-time temporary position that works up to 21 hours a week from early January to mid-April. A cover letter is highly recommended when applying for this position.

Summary:

Works in partnership with Great Rivers Greenway(GRG)as a member of the Outdoor Leadership Corps, which is an education and workforce development program. Works to control, maintain, and restore ecological areas along the Greenways and at various GRG worksites throughout the greater St. Louis area. Assists with other site management, horticulture, and restoration duties as needed. Projects may include invasive species control, garden bed planting and maintenance, and community beautification. Greenway project locations may include woodland restoration, prairie reconstruction, streambank restoration, and wetland restoration.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Controls invasive plant species through the use of manual, mechanical, and/or chemical methods.
Participates in native garden, woodland, and stream restoration efforts, by planting native plants, removing invasive species, and maintaining natural areas.
Assists with tool prep and clean-up for all projects and workdays.
Assists with maintaining database metrics to track management activities.
Assists with regular site maintenance, operating manual and power equipment to maintain native gardens, restoration areas, and trails. Assists during GRG community engagement events. Providing correct information, processes, and positive interactions to community members
Interacts with community members, volunteers, and other conservation professionals on a regular basis.
Assists with the facilitation of community beautification projects along GRG Greenways including picking up trash, removing graffiti, and other tasks.
Participates in planned professional development workshops and trainings.
Uses herbicides while following proper safety protocols under the supervison of designated Garden employees with a valid Missouri Commerical Pesticide Applicator license
Uses herbicides while following proper safety protocols as directed by Conservation Education Instructor and Supervisor.
Ensures that all applicable safety standards are followed; informs employees/students/volunteers of safety guidelines, methods to reduce hazards.
Reports all accidents, injuries and near-miss accidents immediately.
Meets expected attendance guidelines.
Behaves and communicates in a manner that promotes and fosters a culture of teamwork and cooperation, within our division and throughout the Garden, with co-workers, supervisors/managers, volunteers, visitors and employees.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Core Competencies

Communication: Combines listening skills, verbal and written communication skills and visitor relation skills.
Collaboration: Incorporates teamwork, mutual respect, active engagement, cooperation and visitor focus.
Accountability: Initiative to take ownership of responsibilities, the ability to prioritize and the working knowledge and skills to take action.
Problem Solving: Blends problem solving skills, judgement and decision making skills along with creativity and resourcefulness.
Stewardship: Merges the practical application of the Garden values and support for a positive organizational climate.

Qualifications/Experience:

Minimum one year related experience strongly preferred; strong plant identification skills and familiarity with invasive species and native flora of the lower mid-west preferred.
Demonstrated experience with project topics including: invasive species removal, native pollinator garden maintenance, community beautification, and environmental stewardship projects.
Experience with the safe use of landscaping equipment including loppers, shovels, hand-saws, cultivator, and more.
Experience with the use of computers for data recording and management.
The Garden is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our employees, volunteers and guests. All staff are strongly encouraged to receive all vaccinations as recommended by your healthcare provider prior to hire date. The Garden reserves the right to require future proof of current vaccination status, based on local health department guidelines. When international travel is necessary for Garden business, staff must be able to obtain required travel clearances, driving permits, and vaccinations for all countries where travel is required.
The requirements and duties listed are representative and not exhaustive of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required.

Education:

Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent required; some college and/or professional training preferred.
An equivalent combination of education, skills and experience may be considered.

Research Greenhouse Horticulturist (Part-Time)

Position Focus:

Under the direct supervision of the Associate Director of Research, Marsh Botanical Gardens (MBG), provide horticultural support for the university’s plant research programs at both MBG and the Yale Science Building (YSB), a technically complex, state-of-the-art plant growth facility. Daily tasks include, but are not limited to:

Plant Care/Health: Assist with advising, training and working with researchers to establish and maintain protocols. In consultation with researchers, assist with establishing and monitoring growth parameters and environmental control settings including temperature and photoperiod regimens, supplemental light intensities, growth media selections, fertilizer and watering regimens, and cultural practices.

Pest and Disease Control: Assist with assessing, diagnosing and coordinating treatments for pest control, including biological and conventional pesticide treatments. Conduct pesticide applications, maintain spray equipment and pesticide logs, records and reports.

Communication: Interact with faculty and staff to determine project needs and responsibilities. Help communicate policies, plant growth/health, and facility status. Act as a resource person to users about growing methods and techniques.

Facilities maintenance. Help maintain, repair, improve and manage mechanical, environmental, and computer systems for state-of-the-art plant growth facilities. Find and remedy problems before they become serious and detrimental. Assist with the general operation of the growth facility to ensure clean, safe and smooth operation.

Technical services: Provide technical services to individual research labs. These services include, but are not limited to, preparing growth chambers for new horticultural experiments, cleaning growth chambers once horticultural experiments have ended, standing in for normal lab member task in their absence (watering, measuring, assessing growth, etc.).

Oversee student workers: Provide daily oversight for the student workers employed by the Plant Growth Facility. Create schedules, assign tasks, and ensure quality of work students are providing.

In the absence of the Plant Growth Facility Associate Director, provide direct oversight of the facility. Address emergent situations in the day-to-day operation of the facility and escalate to the Associate Director where appropriate.

This is a part-time (20 hours/week) benefits eligible position.

Essential Duties

1. Researches and collects data through complex laboratory/scientific experiments, techniques, and procedures; library research; structured interviews; or through other means for research projects. Interprets, synthesizes, and analyzes data using scientific or statistical techniques. 2. Modifies and plans research experiments, procedures, tests, or survey instruments. Assists in research design. Writes and edits material for publication and presentation. Reports on status of research activities. 3. Oversees and instructs research and support staff on technical procedures, equipment operation, and laboratory maintenance. Schedules and coordinates research activities. Sets up, operates, and maintains laboratory equipment and apparatus. Modifies equipment according to experimental specifications. 4. Orders and maintains inventory of supplies. May monitor hazardous work areas and laboratory safety. Prepares related reports. May prepare financial information and monitor budgets. 5. Performs additional functions incidental to research activities.

Required Education and Experience

Two years of related work experience in the same job family and a Bachelor’s degree in a related field; or an equivalent combination of experience and education.

Required Skill/Ability 1:

Familiarity with taxonomic botany and how this system applies to plants. Ability to multitask, deal effectively with changing priorities and short- and long-term projects.

Required Skill/Ability 2:

Working knowledge of all aspects of research plant care, including propagating, pruning, watering and fertilizing.

Required Skill/Ability 3:

Ability to possess and maintain a valid Connecticut driver’s license and acquire (in a reasonable amount of time after hire) a Connecticut pest applicator’s license.

Required Skill/Ability 4:

Ability to assist with pest and disease Control: Assist with assessing, diagnosing and coordinating treatments for pest control, including biological and conventional pesticide treatments.

POSITION IS PART-TIME.

Required Skill/Ability 5:

Excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficient computer skills, including ability to learn greenhouse management software program, greenhouse and growth chamber computerized control systems, inventory software program, and research plant collections database.

Preferred Education, Experience and Skills:

B.S. in horticulture or related field. Commercial or academic horticultural experience. Proven expertise in growing quality plants.

Project Forester

ReLeaf Michigan seeks an outgoing individual to work with communities on tree-related programs. You’ll work with the organization’s Executive Director and other community forest partners to continue developing, building, and managing our statewide community forestry program. Responsible for coordinating community tree planting programs, including tree planting, maintenance, and related landscaped areas. The Project Forester shall be committed to the mission, vision, and values of ReLeaf Michigan and demonstrate such through ethical conduct, community stewardship, individual initiative, and responsive service. The Project Forester shall demonstrate leadership, management, and technical skills through effective communication and collaboration, proper use of team resources, progressive decision-making, personal accountability, and responsibility. ReLeaf Michigan will provide a laptop and a printer.

Position Responsibilities:

Position responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the items listed below. The position holder acknowledges and accepts that while they are responsible for the items below, they may, on occasion, be asked to perform duties—within reason—outside of those listed below to help the organization complete a program or project.

Manage all aspects of projects, including volunteer recruitment, promotion of programs, site selection, tree species selection, tree delivery, and placement, partner communication, securing permits, generation of maps, tree benefit analysis, and all other project needs
Manage community forest program events and volunteer projects such as tree planting programs, tree pruning sessions, educational workshops, homeowner presentations, and other related events.
Build and maintain essential community and partner relationships for the execution of ReLeaf Michigan projects
Track statistics about volunteer engagement, participation, and trends related to community forestry volunteer events.
Assist the Executive Director with research, editing, and reporting on grants for community forestry programming
Contribute to strategic and timely communication campaigns, including monthly e-newsletters, social media, and press releases
Create tree-related blog posts, articles, and social media posts for the program

Required Qualifications and Abilities:

Must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher education/experience in forestry, arboriculture, botany, horticulture, or closely related environmental science fields, or be ISA certified.
Experience in identifying trees and shrubs by leaves, buds, fruit, and bark characteristics.
Current practices and procedures for maintaining an urban forest include tree planting, species selection, maintenance, and tree pruning.
Strong demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
Technical skills. Must have high proficiency in Microsoft (specifically Excel), Google Workspace, and Adobe. Beneficial but not required: iTree, Constant Contact. Considerable skills with posting on various social media outlets (e.g. Instagram and Facebook)
Enthusiasm and infectious positive spirit
Ability to think strategically and have fun.
Task-oriented and team-focused but can work independently.
Ability to resolve unforeseen problems without direction.
Ability to build or be willing to build positive and meaningful relationships with diverse populations.

Demands and Work Environment

Reasonable accommodations may enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Must be able to lift more than 10 pounds with occasional lifting of up to 40 pounds.
Must have a valid U.S. driver’s license plus reliable transportation.
Travel statewide is required during planting seasons, including occasional overnight trips and evening and weekend meetings.
Highly flexible availability, specifically during planting seasons (spring and fall). Must be able to work Saturdays.
Ability to work outside in all weather conditions (we are a rain-or-shine crew), get dirty, perform manual labor, and otherwise support volunteers to accomplish significant projects with specific objectives
The successful applicant will be expected to attend workshops, seminars, or conferences on topics relating to and benefiting program delivery (to be paid for by ReLeaf Michigan).