The Michigan and Great Lakes Science Technician works closely with other staff to research, gather, and analyze data in support of Michigan and Great Lakes strategies including Soil Health and Nutrients, Protection of Land and Water, Sustainable Fisheries, and others.
The Michigan and Great Lakes Science Technician supports multiple projects managed by Michigan Field Office staff and spanning the breadth of Michigan and adjacent Great Lakes. Primary functions include:
- Assisting with field surveys of fish populations and coastal wetlands in the Great Lakes, inland lakes, and rivers;
- Assisting with aquatic invasive species research in the Great Lakes and inland lakes;
- Analyzing data on groundcover plants, birds and wetland and crop soils;
- Assisting with cost-benefit analysis;
- Developing graphs and charts in support of technical reports.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Performs fieldwork, including data collection on ecosystems or biota;
- Compiles data resolves disparities and modifies processes to generate plans;
- Analyzes data and generates figures and supporting text;
- Works on project teams comprising staff, interns, partners or volunteers;
- May purchase equipment and supplies as provided for in budget;
- Occasionally works in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain, on large rivers and on the waters of the Great Lakes and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Experience with data entry, quality assessment, analysis, and graphing, including with multi-variate data.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated;
- Experienced, competent and comfortable working in the field including remote settings and or on rivers or open water;
- Experience operating or working on boats and/or SCUBA diving would be advantageous;
- Experience with GIS software and data to create maps;
- Ability to understand program budget development and monitoring;
- Ability to interpret guidelines and evaluate information and adapt accordingly;
- Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment;
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
- Time management skills;
- Current driver’s license.
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.