The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we are committed to a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Working in 72 countries, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.

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.

The Zumwalt Botanist and Crew Lead performs ecological monitoring projects as part of a team on grasslands in northeast Oregon.  This is a fulltime, 35 hours per week, 9-month active, 3 months leave without pay during winter months, 2-year term position ending December 2019.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Zumwalt Botanist and Crew Lead contributes to conservation and active management of the Zumwalt Prairie by implementing botanically-focused monitoring, research and inventory projects on Conservancy-owned and other private lands in northeast Oregon. This person plays a major role in leading and mentoring a small crew of resident volunteers to conduct field work from May through October. Field work requires use of standardized protocols for sampling vegetation plots, identification of plants to species level, and utilization of databases for collecting and managing data.  Other essential activities include: maintenance of project databases (including GIS), management of field data collection devices, data analysis and report writing.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• Independently navigates rough terrain, using GPS and maps to locate survey sites.
• Follows detailed protocols for sampling and documenting vegetation and other site characteristics.
• Identifies plants to species and teaches others to recognize common grassland plant species.
• Maintains high standards of data accuracy, maintenance and organization using a variety of technology.
• Uses ArcMap to display and analyze data and make maps for field use.
• Uses statistical software to analyze data and produce reports.
• Coordinates and supervises day-to-day activities of volunteers and interns, under supervision of the Zumwalt Science Specialist.
• Works in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in science related field and 1 year experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with GIS software and data to create maps.
• Experience identifying grasses and flowering plants of the Western US.
• Experience training and leading field crews and ensuring the safety of a group.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• 2 – 3 years of experience in ecological monitoring and field data collection.
• Knowledge of grassland ecology, including effects of livestock grazing and invasive plant management.
• Experience organizing and ensuring the quality of large datasets.
• Experience performing statistical analysis of biological or environmental data.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment when encountering uncertainty.
• Ability to work cooperatively with staff, volunteers and external parties, sometimes under pressure, to complete project goals in a timely manner.
• Confidence and skill operating 4 x 4 trucks and ATVs.

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

• Preferred hiring range: $21.48-$22.82
• This is a full-time, 35 hours per week, 9 month active, 3 months leave without pay during the winter, 2-year term position with ending in December 2019

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with the Conservancy’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered “high risk drivers.” Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee’s motor vehicle record.

To apply to position number 46006, submit resume (required) and cover letter separately using the upload buttons. All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 8:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on January 15, 2018.

Click “submit” to apply for the position or “save for later” to create a draft application for future submission. Once submitted, applications cannot be revised or edited. Failure to complete required fields may result in your application being disqualified from consideration.

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The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Our commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of men and women of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy’s background screening process.