The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has supported the conservation of coral reefs and the restoration and recovery of the endangered elkhorn (Acropora palmata) and staghorn (A. cervicornis) corals in the US Virgin Islands since 2009.
The project is currently seeking two (2) full-time volunteers to work from February 1, 2018 – June 1, 2018 possibly until June 29, 2018 depending on funding availability. The Volunteer Associate will assist with aspects of the project including nursery maintenance and reef restoration efforts. Volunteers will be supervised by the Principal Investigator and will work 7 hours a day, 5 days per week (35 hours per week). Although this is an un-paid volunteer position, TNC will provide housing and reimbursement of airfare and meal expenses following TNC’s travel SOP’s.
The Volunteer Associate provides administrative, research, project management and other general assistance to program or preserve staff in the operation of a coral restoration project on St. Croix, USVI. This may include some or all of the following:
- Gathers and synthesizes data relating to coral restoration and conservation implementation and/or activities.
- Assists in coral nursery maintenance and outplanting activities.
- Assists in the maintenance of equipment, boats, and dive equipment.
- Completing tasks independently within assigned timeframes.
- Managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.
- Performing administrative duties emphasizing detail-oriented and numerical tasks.
- Communicating clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English.
- Assists in the maintenance of boats and dive equipment. Demonstrated ability to safely operate a small powerboat preferred. Must have working knowledge of safety guidelines for operating a boat and must follow all state, local and federal regulations specified for the operation of the motorized watercraft. Must follow recommended safety guidelines and precautions specified for said work.
- Resolves routine issues independently.
- Develops resolution plans with supervisor for unusual or complex issues.
- Works under close supervision and receives specific and detailed instructions for required tasks and results expected.
- Addresses issues with supervisor that affect others’ work or the overall program.
- Consults supervisor on unspecified or unusual issues.
- Ability to work cooperatively with a number of staff and external parties, sometimes under pressure, in order to complete project work and goals in a timely manner.
- Formulate ideas and communicate clearly with others, both orally and in written form.
- Provide a variety of information to staff and others, contributing to conservation projects and assisting workflow throughout the organization.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Maintains project records.
- May purchase equipment and supplies as provided for in budget.
- May assist with program budget development and monitoring.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. These conditions may:
- require physical exertion
- require working on unstable platforms and inclement weather
- present occasional possibility of injury
- require long hours in isolated settings
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.
- 50-100 SCUBA dives minimum.
- SCUBA certification and qualified to meet AAUS Dive Safety Standards (www.aaus.org). Scientific diving experience preferred. Must have Rescue Diver certification prior to starting the position.
- Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers).
- Database management skills including report production.
- Ability to repeatedly lift up to 40 lbs.
- Current CPR, First Aid and Oxygen First Aid Certifications and Diving Medical Exam preferred.
- Valid US driver’s license.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Field experience.
- Knowledge of Caribbean stony corals species, survey experience, and ability to identify critical threats to coral reef ecosystems.
- Ability to work as part of a team to achieve identified project goals and objectives
- Ability to assist with program budget development and monitoring.
- Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment.
- Supervisory skills.
- Time management skills.
Duration & Location: This is a short-term (4 month) volunteer associate position based on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.