Ecosystem Restoration Scientist, Illinois, Nature Conservancy (TNC)

Ecosystem Restoration Scientist, 
Illinois, 
Nature Conservancy (TNC)

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	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.
	YOUR POSITION WITH TNC
	The Ecosystem Restoration Scientist (ERS) will be the on-site lead for providing technical and scientific support for habitat management and restoration at Nachusa Grasslands, a 4,000-acre landscape of native and restored prairies, savannas, streams and wetlands in north-central Illinois. Nachusa Grasslands has emerged as the premier location for ecological restoration and management. The success of the project has also attracted significant scientific interest from faculty and students from numerous universities throughout the country as well as state and federal agencies. The ERS ensures that the most beneficial, applied science is conducted and that it is executed in a manner that maximizes its value to Nachusa Grasslands and TNC over the long term.
	ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
	The Ecosystem Restoration Scientist coordinates with external scientific partners, TNC staff, and stewardship volunteers to design and implement a high-impact research program that supports/enhances on-site management and restoration efforts while further developing Nachusa’s status as the premier site for tallgrass prairie restoration research.  The ERS will oversee scientific surveys of endangered, threatened and unique plant and animal species at Nachusa Grasslands, collect and manage long-term monitoring data, and will be responsible for tracking and evaluating the results of multiyear research projects.  S/he will report findings throughout the relevant science community by publishing in peer-reviewed journals, attending conferences, workshops, etc. While essential functions of the ERS are focused on science, s/he will also assist with prescribed fire, bison management, events, and engage with volunteer stewards, donors, neighbors, and the general public.
	RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
	• Supports TNC science goals and Nachusa Grasslands program objectives through design and implementation of scientific experiments to benefit stewardship efforts on site and abroad. • Assists with the development of adaptive management plans, conceptual models and designs of restoration and management strategies. • Administers and enhances Nachusa Science program.                                • Maintains electronic data bases for scientific tools, biodiversity data, field services and training for staff and partners.                                 • Provides fieldwork and logistical support for research, project development and monitoring.       • May lead staff, interns or volunteers on a project basis.                      • Writing grants, the management of grants, contracts and requests for proposals.                      • Assist with prescribed fire, bison management and other preserve functions. • Willing to work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
	MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
	• Graduate Degree in science related field and 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. • Experience and deep skillset in experimental design and implementation, statistical analyses, synthesizing, interpreting, and communicating scientific information.        • Strong knowledge with statistical software applications. • Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals. • Experience preparing reports of findings. • Experience working and communicating with a wide range of people. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS •     PhD Degree in science related field such as Plant Biology or Ecology and 1-3 years of experience.  •     Strong botanical skills. •     Strong knowledge of common software applications. •     Proven interpersonal skills. •     Teaching experience. •     A willingness to learn other taxa besides the focus of MS and PhD research.
	AUTO SAFETY POLICY
	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.
	HOW TO APPLY
	To apply to position number 45753, submit resume (required) and cover letter separately using the upload buttons. All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on December 8, 2017. 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. If you experience technical issues, please refer to our applicant user guide or contact applyhelp@tnc.org. 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.