The Nature Conservancy in New York is working to improve forest health to mitigate and adapt to climate change. In support of this goal, the Conservancy is assessing the success of two forest restoration projects in the Eastern New York region and is launching a project to identify Natural Climate Solution strategies. The Forest Ecology Technician will work with staff, partners and volunteers to collect forest vegetation data that will be used to make recommendations on the management of forest resources throughout the region. The Forest Ecology Technician will also conduct a review of literature and summarize the information to support the development of Natural Climate Solution strategies to increase forest and agricultural carbon to mitigate climate change.
The Forest Ecology Technician will assist and at times lead forest monitoring data collection and entry on projects in the Catskill Mountains and Lower Hudson Valley. Data collection will include tree and plant identification and measurement using established protocols. S/he will be responsible to organizing and entering large datasets. The Forest Ecology Technician will also conduct a literature review and summarized results to inform strategies to increase forest and agricultural carbon storage and sequestration to mitigate climate change. The position may also, if needed, help to carry out restoration plantings, remove invasive plant species and interact with the public regarding the goals of the projects. The position will spend ~ 50% of the time conducting field work and ~ 50% of the time in and office setting. This is a great opportunity to learn about forest restoration and management in the context of climate change.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Supervises no staff, but may help plan and direct preserve work groups, including staff or volunteers.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
- May require long hours in isolated settings.
- Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
- May work under infrequent supervision.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
- Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
- Experience working in a team environment and alone.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
- Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross cultural experience appreciated.
- 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
- Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
- Demonstrated experience collecting scientific data; maintaining accurate records (e.g. field forms and digital database).
- Ability to identify tree and herbaceous plant species.
- Experience conducting literature reviews and summarizing information.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
- PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.
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.