The Nature Conservancy’s Fisheries Program seeks to restore ecological resilience in the Gulf of Maine by working collaboratively with fishermen to improve biodiversity conservation and advance ecosystem-based management approaches. Our comprehensive suite of conservation strategies is designed to promote sustainable fisheries, improve ecosystem function, and transform ocean management in the Gulf of Maine.
Reporting to the Marine Program Director, the Fisheries Project Manager provides leadership and support of fisheries conservation strategies, including efforts to increase sustainability in Gulf of Maine fisheries, improve the science used for stock assessments, and empower fishermen to become active and valued partners in the fisheries management process.
The Fisheries Project Manager provides technical leadership and support to the Maine Oceans Program. S/he helps to design and implement marine conservation and sustainable fisheries strategies. S/he interacts directly with fishermen, community leaders, and fishery managers and regulators to gather valuable input on strategy design. S/he manages a suite of projects and partnerships designed to empower fishermen to effectively contribute to the science, research and management process. S/he interacts regularly with TNC staff, trustees, and supporters to share progress reports and seek input on projects design and the direction of the program. S/he contributes to internal conservation planning, budgeting, and fundraising initiatives.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Develops and implements innovative and effective conservation projects and strategies.
- Builds and fosters relationships and effective partnerships with fishermen and marine conservation stakeholders.
- Contributes strategic, scientific, and technical support and expertise in the field.
- Effectively communicates program goals and outcomes to a broad audience including fishermen, managers, and the press.
- and manages contracts and/or other business transactions.
- Assists in developing innovative scientific methods, analyses and tools to advance program goals.
- Supports public and private fundraising efforts to achieve program goals.
- Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, assisting with budget development, and meeting fundraising targets.
- Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
- Under minimal supervision, makes independent decisions based on analysis, experience and context.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- 5 years’ experience in natural resource management or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience negotiating complex agreements.
- Experience communicating with the public and/or media both in writing and verbally.
- Experience using applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Web Browsers
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Demonstrated experience partnering with fishermen/communities and influencing public policy.
- Knowledge of state and federal fisheries conservation and management processes.
- Experience managing complex marine conservation projects and strategies.
- Ability to develop practical applications of scientific concepts and technical information to advance conservation.
- Ability to explain conservation strategies and outcomes to technical and non-technical audiences.
- Knowledge of current trends and practices in fisheries conservation and management, sustainability of fishing gear and practices, and impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems.
- Ability to work independently and complete all tasks within required timelines.
- Excellent communication skills via written, spoken and graphical means in English and other relevant languages.
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.