The Spatial Ecologist provides technical and scientific support for conservation initiatives in the Caribbean Division, including conservation action planning and other conservation activities and measures of conservation success.
The Spatial Ecologist collects and manages data on nature and people. S/he develops innovative information synthesis and mapping techniques to help communicate and analyze complex ecological and socioeconomic patterns, and prioritize areas for conservation. S/he conducts scientific surveys and research, collates and where appropriate collects data, writes reports and develops proposals in order to develop, manage and oversee projects within the Caribbean Division.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Perform tasks assigned as required to complete projects including design, development, running specific programs, generating reports, and analyzing results.
- Help to create and implement cartographic standards to provide quality products to our staff and partners
- Assist with the design and implementation of a data maintenance plan and developing new data solutions and best practices.
- Provide technical expertise to team members and users to help resolve complex project-related problems.
- Attend and possibly conduct training classes to maintain knowledge base of current technology. Review technical publications on pertinent topics. When needed, assist with training other staff members or partners.
- Develops adaptive management plans, conceptual models and designs ecosystem conservation strategies.
- Develops, manages, and oversees projects within the Division.
- Delivers tools, data, field services and training to staff and partners.
- Designs and implements experiments relative to program area.
- May supervises staff or volunteers on a project basis, coordinate fieldwork where applicable, and logistical support for research, project development and monitoring.
- May manage a grant, contract or request for proposal.
- Must work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- 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 range of people.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Strong knowledge of common software applications.
- Proven negotiation skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Training experience.
- Experience solving problems through spatial analysis (GIS and remote sensing) focused on conservation and environmental projects. Many of the projects will involve the use of Marxan and developing multi-objective Marine Spatial Plans
- Basic GIS programming skills a plus (Python, ArcGIS Server, and the ArcGIS Flex API)
- Ability to collect, organize, and disseminate GIS and remote sensing datasets using evolving data standards.
- Ability to effectively communicate results through cartography and the design of interactive web-mapping services/story maps.
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.