Earthwatch is an international environmental nonprofit organization that engages people in scientific field research and education. To achieve our mission, we offer research expeditions at exciting locations around the globe. Participants on these expeditions assist top scientists as they investigate important questions about how we can better protect our planet.

LOCATION: MONTCLAIR, CA, USA
POSITION TYPE: CONTRACTOR/CONSULTANT
DEPARTMENT: PROGRAM DELIVERY
SALARY: $30 PER HOUR, 32 HOURS PER WEEK

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Operation Smart Water Research Coordinator will work with local partners to coordinate and deliver the Operation Smart Water (OSW) field research program. The OSW program includes recruiting, preparing, and leading members of the public (e.g. youth, community members) in field research (i.e. community science) events. The OSW Research Coordinator will ensure data are collected, shared and communicated appropriately. Key partners include the Chino Basin Water Conservation District (CBWCD), the academic research team, other local partners and participants. The OSW Research Coordinator will be based out of the Montclair, CA office of CBWCD. The goals of OSW are to: a) Guide efficient outdoor water use for urban landscapes, b) Identify how vegetation provides cooling benefits to local community members, and c) Engage local public in relevant community science. The position will run from October 1, 2018 to October 1, 2019 for 32 hours per week.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure coordination and delivery of the field and community science activities needed for OSW, including coordination with OSW partners (Earthwatch, Chino Basin Water Conservation District and the research teams).
  • Become proficient in the required research techniques to carry out OSW. This includes assessment of soil type and moisture, leaf water potential and plant health, and deploying air temperature sensors, among others. Training and support will be provided as necessary by the OSW research team.
  • Recruit, train and lead teams of community members (typically 1-5 people per team) to assist in field research events led in order to collect necessary data. Field events will occur on average 2-3 times a week, but this will vary from week to week.
  • Ensure that OSW collected research data is transferred to the database base, and is maintained to a high standard.
  • Collect and review evaluation data and respond to community members’ feedback.
  • Develop and distribute communication materials to partners and participants to support deployment and sharing of results and outcomes of OSW.  Examples may include: a monthly newsletter for project participants with photos; sharing results/outcomes via social media (FaceBook, Earthwatch website, Twitter, etc.); and coordinating 2-3 workshops at local institutions (such as the Waterwise Community Center, Community Gardens, schools and universities).
  • Coordinate and communicate regularly with scientists about data collection; review and feed into data visualization.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to speak Spanish fluently required.
  • Significant experience and comfort in research data collection; willingness and ability to learn new techniques quickly.
  • Proven track record of successfully leading and educating members of the public around nature-based activities.
  • Enjoys working with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
  • Track record in coordinating across multiple groups and building partnerships.
  • Self-motivated, with excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Willingness and ability to travel locally. Must be able to access local field sites via personal vehicle or other transportation.
  • Commitment to Earthwatch’s mission and values.

To Apply

Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter via https://earthwatch.org/About/Job-Details/operation-smart-water-research-coordinator(link is external)

No phone calls please. Due to limited resources, we are only able to accept applicants who are already eligible to work in the United States.

This is a contracted position of limited duration and as such does not include benefits.

Earthwatch is an equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to create a diverse and inclusive organization that is reflective of the global communities with whom we work. We actively seek individuals of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. We encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, sexes, religions, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or any other status protected by law.