The Quantitative Ecologist develops the evidence base for The Nature Conservancy’s efforts to protect and restore lands in Washington. They work on a team of conservation practitioners and scientists to develop and implement science-based management and restoration across all ecosystems in Washington. They are a leading voice for science in the Washington Chapter and build linkages across our conservation strategies.
Areas of Responsibility:
Supporting Conservation (50%)
- The Quantitative Ecologist will develop the science that supports The Nature Conservancy’s conservation strategies in ecosystems across Washington. They will network with the scientific community, including with agency and tribal scientists, to build the evidence base for the management and restoration of Washington ecosystems, including forests, cities, floodplains, and Puget Sound. They will work with Conservation Program staff and external partners to help prioritize, plan, and implement conservation strategies and restoration projects. They will also build linkages across conservation strategies conducted in different landscapes.
Communication (25%)
- The Quantitative Ecologist will communicate scientific findings and the scientific basis for conservation priorities and actions to the general public, partners, media, and the scientific community. Communication may be through peer-reviewed literature, other published materials and maps, presentation at meetings and conferences, news media, and field tours.
Advancing Science (25%)
- The Quantitative Ecologist will work both independently and with colleagues to advance the science of conservation; developing new tools, testable strategies and approaches, and leading scientific inquiry and problem-solving related to conservation and restoration. Advancing science includes searching for alternative ways to approach and solve conservation problems.
Level of Position: The Quantitative Ecologist is a senior member of the Washington Chapter’s Science Team and plays a leadership role on the Chapter’s Conservation Team, with significant strategic and partnership responsibilities.
Within the scope of the position, the Quantitative Ecologist will:
- Develop landscape-scale conceptual and quantitative models, and design ecosystem conservation strategies in different ecosystems across Washington.
- Develop and manage the evidence base for science-based conservation and restoration projects, including delivery of ecosystem services.
- Develop and provide scientific foundation for TNC’s land, water and urban conservation strategies.
- Provide research and quantitative analysis to help prioritize restoration and management projects.
- Lead and manage consultant contracts, grants and/or requests for proposals.
- May lead staff, interns or volunteers on a project basis.
- Create, build, and maintain effective partnerships with academic, NGO, agency, and tribal scientists.
- Mentor, support, and partner with Conservancy scientists in natural and social science disciplines.
Work Environment and Schedule
- The Quantitative Ecologist works statewide and in partnership with agencies, tribes, NGOs, and academics. They will travel (up to 25%) and will work in both professional office settings and in the field, sometimes in inclement weather and within steep and rugged terrain. May require working long and/or flexible hours.
Educational Background:
Master’s Degree in ecology, mathematical biology, or related field and 2 years of experience OR equivalent combination of education and experience
Skills/Experience:
- Experience synthesizing, interpreting, and communicating scientific information.
- Experience with ecological statistics and quantitative techniques.
- Experience preparing reports of findings.
- Experience communicating with the ability to relate scientific concepts to a variety of audiences, including members, donors, and the media.
- Experience developing and leveraging collaborative relationships with academic and/or agency partners.
- Must have a valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one prior to beginning the position.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in ecology, mathematical biology, or related field and 4 years of experience OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Demonstrated experience in advanced quantitative techniques, particularly statistical modeling, analytical and /or simulation modeling or meta-analysis.
- Proven ability to negotiate and develop work programs with external partners, especially academics, agencies and tribes.
- Demonstrated flexibility and interest to understand and move between different subject matter, such as forest ecology, climate change, salmon ecology, forest and stream interactions, urban conservation etc.
- Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of climate change, e.g. carbon markets, climate-induced shifts in phenology, climate impacts on ecological interactions.
- Knowledge of key conservation issues and partners working in Washington.
- Knowledge and experience working within Washington ecosystems.
- Record of publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Ability to travel within Washington State
Compensation/Benefits:
Estimated starting salary: $70,000 - $82,000 annually, dependent on qualifications and experience.
Job Function:
Organization Info
Listing Stats
Post Date:
May 28 2019
Active Until:
Jun 28 2019
Hiring Organization:
Nature Conservancy
industry:
Nonprofit