The Irvine Ranch Conservancy POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT JOB TITLE: NATURAL RESOURCE STEWARD/ECOLOGIST FLSA STATUS: Exempt REPORTS TO: Director Science & Stewardship
CORE FUNCTIONS Field-oriented natural resource management position, responsible for coordinating and implementing activities related to the Conservancy's mission to encourage the highest quality stewardship of the permanently protected Irvine Ranch wildlands. Includes habitat restoration, exotic species control, species and habitat monitoring, fire and fuels management, and leading work crews and volunteer workdays. Assists landowners with Natural Communities Conservation Plan compliance, as well as developing and implementing resource management plans. Coordinates with regional scientific teams and individuals, as well as regional partners in wildland management. May recruit and supervise seasonal staff and interns, and supervise professional consultants and contractors. Serves on the Science and Resource Management team of the Conservancy and provides consultation and advice to other projects as appropriate. Effectively manages a wildland/urban interface including developing relationships with neighbors and enlisting their support for appropriate stewardship of the open space, field operations activities, and general reserve management. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS Bachelors degree in biology, ecology, natural resources management or similar field and 3 yrs related work experience in land management. Successful experience in managing field operations associated with habitat restoration, erosion control, weed abatement, and in areas with sensitive natural resources. Ability to conduct field operations work with a broad grounding in the natural sciences and familiarity with the biological systems, flora and fauna of the region. Knowledge of general ecological principles and experience with basic experimental design and field sampling. Experience with safe use and maintenance of tools and equipment, including power tools and heavy equipment (mowers, tractors, chain saws, etc.), especially in the context of habitat restoration and exotic species control. Successful experience developing, directing and managing multiple projects and timelines. Ability to obtain/maintain necessary licenses or certifications such as trail construction, fire management, first aid, CPR, herbicide application, specialized driver's license. Computer familiarity, including database knowledge, in order to maintain project records and reports. DECISION-MAKING/PROBLEM SOLVING: Design, implement and direct projects, setting deadlines and ensuring high quality outcomes. Ability to make or recommend sometimes complex scientific decisions relative to species and habitat conservation in consultation with supervisors and colleagues. Ability to compile, organize and use scientific information in decision-making. Experience developing creative approaches and strategies to conserve natural communities and their components. COMMUNICATION/INTERPERSONAL: Good communication and presentation skills. Experience preparing clear, accurate reports and documents. Ability to manage group processes and objectives and to participate constructively on multi-disciplinary teams. WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work frequently involves physical exertion, variable weather conditions, and demanding field circumstances with exposure to disagreeable elements in an open space setting. Frequent travel within immediate/local area. Willingness to work variable hours appropriate to project objectives. Contact: Dr. David Olson at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Position available immediately; open until filled The Irvine Ranch Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer
