Become a force for nature and a healthy planet by joining the Maryland/DC Chapter’s Science Team! Our work is focused on two areas where our outcomes can have the greatest impact for the residents of Maryland/DC: protecting clean water and tackling climate change. Our efforts span the region, from western Maryland's Central Appalachian forests to our nation's capital and beyond to the Chesapeake Bay. The Applied Scientist I provides technical and scientific support for conservation initiatives in Conservation by Design (CbD) and measures of conservation success (MOS).
The position will help tackle scientific uncertainties around the Conservancy’s priority conservation strategies in Forests, Cities, Farms, and Coasts. This position will add capacity to the Maryland/DC Science Team while also providing the successful candidate with professional development opportunities.
The Applied Scientist I collects and manages data for endangered, threatened and special animal species. They classify targets and assess their data to prioritize areas for conservation. The Applied Scientist I conducts scientific surveys and research, records data, writes reports and develops proposals in order to administer and coordinate conservation programs within a conservation or business unit.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Synthesizes scientific information to assist with developing influence models, conservation strategies, and monitoring programs.
- Performs fieldwork including ecosystem assessment and field monitoring.
- Delivers tools, biodiversity data, field services and training to staff and partners.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Experience collecting, manipulating, analyzing and interpreting scientific data.
- Experience preparing reports of findings.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Cross-disciplinary background in ecosystem function and system analyses.
- Familiarity with structured decision-making, adaptive management, and ideally Conservation by Design, including PrOACT and expert elicitation.
- Experience or familiarity with a range of modeling tools, including probabilistic and deterministic models.
- Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Strong knowledge of computer technology and common software applications, including Microsoft Office, R, and ArcGIS.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to meet deadlines.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.