Aquatic Invasive Species Project Coordinator

~ The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working to make a positive impact around the world in more than 30 countries, all 50 United States, and your backyard. ~

Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Click here to learn more. And the Nature Conservancy's Adirondack Chapter has a highly successful 40+ year track record of conservation work within northern New York.  

Position Overview 

The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Project Coordinator is a team member of the Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program (APIPP), one of New York's eight Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM). 

APIPP is housed at the Adirondack Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, one of APIPP's four founding partners. The APIPP facilitates the development, coordination and implementation of innovative programs in the Adirondack region for invasive species prevention, monitoring, mapping, management, education and restoration. Click here for more information.

The AIS Project Coordinator's primary role is to lead APIPP's early detection and education programs for AIS, collaborate with and coordinate partners in the region working on AIS and serve as an expert resource for partners and communities on AIS related issues. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual to work in a creative, team-oriented environment using diverse strategies to address an important and high profile conservation issue.

The AIS Project Coordinator may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. These conditions may require considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain, present frequent possibility of injury and require long hours in isolated settings.

The position is located at the Adirondack Chapter of The Nature Conservancy's office in Keene Valley, NY. The position is a full-time position with renewal each year contingent upon availability of continuing state funds. A start date of late April to early May is desired but flexible. 

Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

The AIS Project Coordinator participates in the development, coordination and implementation of AIS programs in the Adirondack region. This includes the following functions: 

• Coordinate APIPP's aquatic invasive species volunteer monitoring program, including organizing training sessions, coordinating volunteers, and lending support and assistance 
• Conduct aquatic invasive species surveys, including maintaining survey gear and equipment, and lend guidance to aquatic invasive species management efforts 
• Develop and deliver presentations to stakeholder groups at local, state and regional levels, participate in education and outreach events and maintain APIPP's Blog 
• Perform database entry, GIS mapping and analysis 
• Develop work plans and project reports as necessary 
• Coordinate partners and activities of APIPP's Aquatic Invasive Species Committee 
• Identify ways to enhance invasive species prevention, detection and management strategies 
• Coordinate regional AIS prevention, early detection and management with other PRISMs and regional partners  

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications: 

• BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science-related field and 1 year related experience in custodial and ecological management or equivalent combination of education and experience 
• Knowledge of natural systems 
• Experience in ecological management principles 
• Supervisory experience 
• Experience performing physical work 

Desired Qualifications: 

• 2-3 years related experience in ecological management and volunteer coordination or equivalent combination of education and experience 
• Experience working with or knowledge of aquatic systems and knowledge of ecological resource management principles 
• Familiarity with AIS and current trends and practices in their prevention and management, including ability to identify aquatic plants and animals and utilize identification keys 
• Experience using geographic information system (GIS) software such as ArcGIS and Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment 
• Strong organization skills with high attention to detail 
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, and interpersonal skills, including ability to network and communicate effectively with diverse groups, including shore owners, volunteers, conservation partners, government officials, business/industry representatives and the general public 
• Ability to complete tasks independently with respect to timeline(s), including managing time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results 
• Motivated self-starter who is flexible, including desire and willingness to learn new skills and approaches 
• Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Publisher) 
• Kayak/Canoe experience 

Note: This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with the Conservancy's Auto Safety Program.  Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." Click here to see further details in the Auto Safety Program document. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

To Apply

Please click below: "Apply Here!" to submit your resume and cover letter as one document. Apply to position number 42002 .

Note: All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on April 11, 2014.

~ The Nature Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer ~