Science Technician I (Volunteer)
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is the leading conservation organization working to make a positive impact for people and nature around the world in 69 countries, all 50 United States, major US cities and in your neighborhood. Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we are committed to a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Visit www.nature.org/aboutus to learn more.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Nature Conservancy has supported the conservation of coral reefs and the restoration and recovery of the endangered elkhorn (Acropora palmata) and staghorn (A. cervicornis) corals in the US Virgin Islands since 2009.
The project is currently seeking two (2) full-time volunteers to work from January 30, 2017 ? June 2, 2017 possibly until June 30, 2017 depending on funding availability. The Volunteer Associate will assist with aspects of the project including nursery maintenance and reef restoration efforts. Volunteers will be supervised by the Principal Investigator and will work 7 hours a day, 5 days per week (35 hours per week). Although this is an un-paid volunteer position, TNC will provide housing and reimbursement of airfare and meal expenses following TNC?s travel Standard  Operating Procedures.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Volunteer Associate provides administrative, research, project management and other general assistance to program or preserve staff in the operation of a coral restoration project on St. Croix, USVI. This may include some or all of the following:
? Gathers and synthesizes data relating to coral restoration and conservation implementation and/or activities.
? Assists in coral nursery maintenance and outplanting activities.
? Assists in the maintenance of equipment, boats, and dive equipment.
? Completing tasks independently within assigned timeframes.
? Managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.
? Performing administrative duties emphasizing detail-oriented and numerical tasks.
? Communicating clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English.
? Assists in the maintenance of boats and dive equipment. Demonstrated ability to safely operate a small powerboat preferred. Must have working knowledge of safety guidelines for operating a boat and must follow all state, local and federal regulations specified for the operation of the motorized watercraft. Must follow recommended safety guidelines and precautions specified for said work.
? Resolves routine issues independently.
? Develops resolution plans with supervisor for unusual or complex issues.
? Works under close supervision and receives specific and detailed instructions for required tasks and results expected.
? Addresses issues with supervisor that affect others? work or the overall program.
? Consults supervisor on unspecified or unusual issues.
? Ability to work cooperatively with a number of staff and external parties, sometimes under pressure, in order to complete project work and goals in a timely manner.
? Formulate ideas and communicate clearly with others, both orally and in written form.
? Provide a variety of information to staff and others, contributing to conservation projects and assisting workflow throughout the organization.
RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
? Maintains project records.
? May purchase equipment and supplies as provided for in budget.
? May assist with program budget development and monitoring.
? May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. These conditions may:
– require physical exertion
– require working on unstable platforms and inclement weather
– present occasional possibility of injury
– require long hours in isolated settings
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
? Associates Degree in natural resources; environmntal studies or equivalent combination of education and 6-months experience.
? Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.
? 50-100 SCUBA dives minimum.
? SCUBA certification and qualified to meet AAUS Dive Safety Standards (www.aaus.org). Scientific diving experience preferred. Must have Rescue Diver certification prior to starting the position.
? Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers).
? Database management skills including report production.
? Ability to repeatedly lift up to 40 lbs.
? Current CPR, First Aid and Oxygen First Aid Certifications and Diving
Medical Exam preferred.
? Valid US driver?s license.
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & EXPERIENCE
? Field experience.
? Knowledge of Caribbean stony corals species, survey experience, and
ability to identify critical threats to coral reef ecosystems.
? Ability to work as part of a team to achieve identified project goals and objectives.
? Ability to assist with program budget development and monitoring.
? Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment.
? Supervisory skills.
? Time management skills.
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 44896, submit resume (required) and cover letter as a single document using the upload button. All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on December 16, 2016.
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 <http://www.nature.org/about-us/careers/external-applicant-userguide.pdf>
or contact applyhelp@tnc.org. *LI-
*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.