The Science Associate will provide technical and scientific support for conservation initiatives in the California Oceans Program of the Conservancy. They will provide technical and science support for (1) the Conservancy’s kelp conservation strategy in California, with a focus on kelp mapping, management, and restoration; (2) the Conservancy’s fishery reform projects in California, with a focus on climate-ready fisheries strategies; and (3) the scoping and evaluation of emerging conservation issues that affect the coastal and marine ecosystems of California (e.g. climate change, ocean plastics, renewable energy).
The Science Associate will conduct literature research and analysis, write reports and develops strategic communications and proposals, and manage contracts and grants in order to support and coordinate the science underpinning conservation programs within the California Oceans Program. The Associate will provide science support to further the development and rollout of the Conservancy’s kelp conservation strategy through engagement of science partners, background research, and identification of new approaches for mapping, monitoring, and restoring kelp forests. They will engage in 1-2 fishery projects and provide technical support to cross-disciplinary teams working to improve management of California fisheries in the context of a changing ocean. The Associate will also conduct literature and expert reviews and situational analyses on emerging issues such as ocean plastics pollution, climate change, and renewable energy that represent important threats to coastal and marine ecosystems, to inform potential opportunities for Conservancy engagement.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Provide science support, as directed, to a range of Ocean Program priorities and teams.
- Conduct literature reviews and research to support the development of strategic documents, workshops, and communication materials to meet conservation objectives.
- Assist in managing and coordinating science projects, contracts and deliverables with California Oceans team and partners.
- Deliver tools, data, information, and services to key Ocean Program staff and partners.
- Develop and contribute science contributions to support Ocean Program objectives.
- Perform occasional fieldwork, sometimes with partners, to support priority science engagements.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Experience organizing and supporting science-based teams, workshops and meetings.
- Experience collecting, manipulating, analyzing and interpreting scientific literature and data.
- Experience preparing reports, slide decks, and communication materials of key findings.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s Degree in science related field and 2-3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience in California’s marine and coastal ecology, conservation science, conservation technology, data science, and/or Geographic Information Systems.
- Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Strong knowledge of computer technology and common software applications.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to meet deadlines.
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.