The Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy Saving the Last Great Places

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: BIOBLITZ COORDINATOR (short-term position) JOB FAMILY: Conservation - Field JOB NUMBER: 8028 FLSA STATUS: Exempt RELATED POSITION TITLES: Program Coord., Foundation/Research Officer, Technical Writer

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Nature Conservancy is planning to conduct two ‘Bioblitzes’ at Camp Owasippe, a critical 4,500-acre parcel in the White River-Blue Lakes Barrens landscape. The purpose of the blitzes will be to utilize volunteer scientists and naturalists to gather critical ecological and inventory data to inform conservation planning and management of the Camp.

The Bioblitz Coordinator will work with conservation and science staff and volunteers to research and gather data relating to the creation of conservation plans for the White River-Blue Lakes Barrens landscape. This will include logistices, organization, and recruitment of volunteer scientist teams; collecting, assembling, and analyzing field data submitted by volunteer teams; collection of supplemental data in the field; producing maps using GIS software; making presentations; and producing a final report including management and monitroing recommendations.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS:  Bachelor’s degree in biology, plant ecology, natural resources management or related field and two years related work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.  Ability to organize time and manage diverse activities. Meet deadlines.  Ability to assemble and organize scientific data, to make analyses and prepare reports of findings.  Knowledge and experience with regional flora and fauna and ecosystems  Ability to evaluate habitat conditions and collect and process specimens  Experience with statistical analysis of natural communities and a variety of environmental data on ecological communities  Knowledge of natural systems and the management techniques used to maintain them.  Familiarity with GIS, including ability to utilize data to create appropriate maps.  Experience with project management.

COMPLEXITY/PROBLEM SOLVING:  Coordinate a project with several variables, set realistic deadlines and manage a timeframe.  Resolve routine problems independently, consulting with supervisor to develop plans for resolution of complex or unusual problems.  Analyze and evaluate data and information from various sources, making recommendations and compiling reports.  Ability to compile and organize scientific data with attention to detail.

DISCRETION/LATITUDE/DECISION-MAKING:  Work independently without requiring detailed management review of general work.  Prioritize work independently, exercise judgement. Work affords significant opportunity to act independently on assigned tasks.  Consult with supervisor to address any issues that may affect the work of others or the program as a whole.

RESPONSIBILITY/OVERSIGHT –FINANCIAL & SUPERVISORY:  Financial responsibility may include working within a budget to complete projects  May need to gain cooperation from individuals or groups over whom there is no direct authority in order to accomplish program goals.  May supervise volunteers, interns, or temporary staff.  May participate in or lead work groups.  Purchase equipment and supplies as provided for in budget, in consultation with supervisor.

COMMUNICATIONS/INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS:  Excellent speaking and writing ability, especially the ability to write cogently on complex technical or scientific matters.  Working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software.  Ability to simplify and explain complex scientific data to general audiences  Work and communicate effectively with a diverse group of people, including scientists, preserve staff, and others, providing and obtaining needed information.  Function productively as a member or leader of a work team.  Provide a variety of information to staff and others, contributing to conservation projects and assisting workflow throughout the organization.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT:  Willingness to work long hours in an isolate setting.  Valid driver’s license, safe driving record.  Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult and sometimes hazardous terrain.

Employment Dates: May 1 through September 1, 2002; dates adjustable.

Closing Date: February 20, 2002

Contact: Send cover letter and resume to:

Bioblitz Coordinator The Nature Conservancy 2840 East Grand River Ave., Suite 5 East Lansing, MI 48823

E-mail: [email protected]

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer