The Nature Conservancy of New Jersey will be partnering with the Endangered and Non-Game Species Program (ENSP) to study the wildlife connectivity value of several regions of northern NJ. These regions are major priorities for protection of natural habitats, for wildlife migration and for climate resiliency. An important component of identifying lands to protect and identifying wildlife connectivity improvement needs is to provide science that will help determine strategies to maintain and enhance the ability of wildlife to move through the landscape. To gather this science, The Nature Conservancy will be working with ENSP to identify key road segments and conduct wildlife mortality assessments and wildlife camera surveys in two key regions in north Jersey to help identify potential barriers to wildlife moving between habitat cores.
This position will report directly to the Conservation Coordinator and will participate in on-the-ground wildlife migration assessments and will participate on basic GIS projects that will help further land conservation efforts in NJ. The opportunity to participate in science-based monitoring efforts as well as GIS desk top analyses gives this position an attractive blend of science and analytical responsibilities. The Technician will be exposed to a range of other opportunities during the course of the position duration, which includes learning about conservation of large landscapes, applying GIS skills to land conservation issues, and gaining exposure to a global conservation organization. The position will be based at The Nature Conservancy’s New Jersey Field Office, located in Chester, New Jersey. This is a 6-month, paid position for 35 hours/week at $18 per hour without housing. Position starts April 2, 2018.
The Lands Connectivity and GIS Technician will participate in science based surveys; including conducting weekly wildlife road mortality assessments, assisting in the maintenance and review of wildlife cameras, inputting and managing data, and assisting with select GIS projects that help advance land conservation statewide. This may include one or more of the following functions:
- Conducts standardized scientific surveys including the collection of wildlife mortality data along selected road segments to help assess the wildlife usage of various habitat cores and corridors within north Jersey.
- Assists with deployment, maintenance, and data management of continuous wildlife cameras located in the habitat cores and corridors.
- Using standardized protocol, reviews, processes and organizes motion-triggered wildlife camera data.
- Assists with GIS projects including: data analysis projects to advance the NJ Conservation Lands Blueprint and available lands projects in TNC’s Bobcat Alley in North Jersey.
- Communicates regularly with supervisor and ENSP staff regarding work.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Maintains project records, road assessment and wildlife camera monitoring data and detailed datasheets.
- May purchase equipment and supplies as provided for in budget.
- Data entry and management.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.
- Experience performing administrative duties emphasizing detail-oriented and numerical tasks.
- Experience working with Microsoft Office Suite software and Web browsers.
- Experience working and communicating with a diverse group of people
- Valid driver’s license.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s Degree in natural resources; environmental studies or equivalent combination of education and 6 months experience.
- Professional experience with collecting data in the field, including setup, maintenance and review of wildlife cameras for the collection of scientific data.
- Demonstrated experience working with GIS, including analytical skills.
- Experience with using GPS technology.
- Knowledgeable and passionate about terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife connectivity.
- Working knowledge of local flora and fauna.
- Ability to work independently, efficiently, and in an organized fashion with very strong attention to detail.
- Effective communication skills, whether in writing, in person, or on the telephone.
- Ability to work alone or in a team in the field, under a variety of weather conditions
- Ability to operate various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g.; pick-up truck, trailers, power tools, etc.)
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule including occasional weekends
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.