WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU
The Freshwater Science Specialist will support NJ's Freshwater Team to gather, analyze and synthesize water quality and project monitoring data and assist with the Chapter's watershed-wide floodplain reforestation stewardship efforts. This position will be responsible for leading the Paulins Kill water quality monitoring program, including scientific data collection, management, analysis, reporting and publications. They will disseminate results, create annual summary reports, and evaluate monitoring plans to document changes in river health and ensure documentation of the long-term benefits of our restoration efforts (reforestation, dam removal, wetland restoration) effects to water quality and wildlife habitat, and ultimately of project success. The Freshwater Science Specialist will work with the Freshwater Restoration Manager to develop their water quality monitoring and stewardship skills. Additionally, they will expand and accelerate current achievements by overseeing restoration and restoration monitoring efforts in northern NJ, as well as coordinate monitoring projects statewide: setting deadlines and managing partner relationships, facilitating work groups, helping to coordinate community engagement, and communicating results to a variety of audiences.
- Leads the monitoring of watershed-wide stream and floodplain health, as well as measurement of individual project successes in achieving meaningful ecological outcomes.
- Articulates final conclusions in summary reports and/or publications and communicates data findings to diverse audiences, ranging from technical experts to community groups.
- Leads and participates in field work and performs standardized scientific surveys including the collection of water quality and stream benthic macroinvertebrate samples, and conducts standardized visual surveys to assess the physical condition of stream reaches.
- Compiles, formats and analyzes data relating to watershed assessment, stream monitoring, and site-based project evaluation. Resolves data disparities and modifies processes to generate consistent analytical results.
- Coordinates and directs on-site implementation of floodplain restoration and stewardship projects including tree maintenance, operating hand tools, heavy equipment trucks/trailers, and field equipment.
- Participates in and leads community engagement activities including event planning and facilitating volunteer workdays.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
- Bachelor's Degree in science related field and 2 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience completing tasks independently with respect to timeline(s).
- Experience conducting surveys, recording data and writing project reports.
- Experience using common software applications such as word, Excel, web browsers, etc.
- Experience with stream sampling and scientific data collection methods.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Basic understanding of R and R Studio programs and a interest in publishing research findings to document and assess river health, restoration and conservation success.
- Experience with continuous instream monitoring equipment; HOBO logger, Hach multiparameter probes or similar devices, as well as proficient with water quality instruments (e.g. YSI probes, turbidimeter, Hach flow meters).
- Experience following Rapid Bioassessment Protocols and macroinvertebrate data collection techniques.
WHAT WE BRING
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.
We're proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
SALARY INFORMATION
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $69,000-$72,000 for annual base salary. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate's actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.