The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is seeking a conservation scientist to join our dynamic team of scientists in the Wyoming chapter. Wyoming is home to some of the most intact and undisturbed lands in the country, with abundant wildlife, clean air, and expansive vistas; yet a variety of forms of development and a changing climate threaten the biodiversity of the Cowboy State. We seek a conservation scientist to join us in finding innovative solutions to the threats at hand. The successful candidate will: lead research that advances best conservation practices in Wyoming; engage closely with partners within TNC and in external agencies and organizations; help set priorities for the conservation activities undertaken by the Wyoming chapter; provide scientific support for program staff and preserve managers within TNC; and manage the GIS database for the chapter. Other essential functions include: communicating with diverse audiences, publishing scientific papers and reports, writing proposals and engaging with funders and donors. The conservation scientist will join a team of three other scientists who are actively engaged in research and outreach activities.
- Engages in collaborative scientific investigations to support priority research questions (may lead and develop, or support – as needed depending on the project). Provides fieldwork and logistical support for research, project development and monitoring.
- Manages GIS databases and conducts spatial analyses for the Chapter.
- May manage a grant or contract and may develop requests for proposals.
- Supports on-the ground conservation staff needs by delivering analyses and summaries of complex conservation/biodiversity data, developing research programs or partnerships to fill knowledge gaps, and/or providing training, as needed.
- Engages with universities, agencies and other NGOs effectively to build dynamic partnerships.
- Communicates results effectively to staff, board, partners, and citizens in a variety of forms (peer-reviewed publications, blogs, donor letters, verbal presentations etc.)
- May lead staff, interns or volunteers on a project basis.
- On many occasions may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires occasional travel, as well as working extended hours as necessary.
- Experience with GIS and spatial analyses.
- Experience leading and working with cross functional teams.
- Experience synthesizing, interpreting and communicating scientific information.
- Experience preparing reports of findings.
- Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals.
- Experience working and communicating with a wide and diverse range of people.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. in related field.
- Strong knowledge of ArcGIS and experience managing and analyzing spatial data.
- Strong skills in statistics, scientific writing, verbal communication, and track record of raising funds for research.
- Expertise in a topic of relevance to the work of TNC in Wyoming, which may include but is not limited to: watershed science, forest management, or conservation planning.
- Ability to engage in a wide range of conservation issues, analyze complex problems, rapidly build expertise on new issues, and develop strategic responses or solutions.
- Knowledge of Western/Wyoming wildlife and ecosystems.
- Experience creating and working effectively with diverse partners from conservation NGOs, government agencies, and/or academic institutions.
- Experience translating complex technical and scientific issues to a broad range of audiences and across platforms (e.g. in-person presentations to social media).
- Strong ethic of teamwork, communication, collaboration and accountability.
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.