Ecological Assessment Field Coordinator – New York, NY
Organization: Natural Areas Conservancy (NAC)
Position Title: Ecological Assessment Field Coordinator
Location: New York, NY
Hours & Compensation: 35 hours/week, typically weekdays with 7 hour days.
Position Dates: Begin April 2013 and continue for two years. Start date is flexible.
Application Deadline: April 5, 2013.
Posted On: March 22, 2013.
Organization Overview:
The Natural Areas Conservancy (NAC) is a not-for-profit organization created to work in partnership with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation to restore, protect and manage a network of green and blue space that promotes a healthy, livable and diverse New York City. The NAC is tasked with expanding and diversifying the protection, management and restoration of 10,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and grasslands overseen by the Parks Department’s Natural Resources Group. This public/private partnership will unify the identity of NYC’s natural areas, increase public awareness and volunteerism and integrate advanced technology.
Description:
One of the first programs of the NAC is to undertake a comprehensive citywide assessment that uses uniform metrics to measure the health of natural areas. Standardized ecological data will be collected for the site assessment. Site conditions including human uses and impacts will also be quantified. In spring 2013, NAC’s pilot field season will launch in three targeted areas in New York City: natural area parks in the borough of Brooklyn, Van Cortlandt Park in the northwest Bronx, and tidal wetlands city-wide. Assessment methodology will be conducted by NAC and NYC Parks staff as well as interns and seasonal hires.
Responsibilities:
- Under supervision of the Senior Project Manager, the Ecological Assessment Field Coordinator (EAFC) will supervise seasonal field biologists and interns making up field teams of three to five staff in conducting site assessments from May-October for two years
- Coordinate fieldwork and assist in the collection and management of field data
- Assure data collection protocols are followed and documented correctly
- Coordinate field schedules, equipment use and site logistics
- Manage data sets, assist in analysis, and write reports
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree with major study in environmental sciences, ecology, forestry, wildlife biology, botany, natural resources, or a related biological science
- A minimum of two years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in plant and/or animal identification and a working knowledge of the flora and fauna of the northeastern U.S.
- Experience with GPS units and navigation and ecological sampling techniques
- Ability to follow and instruct others in rigorous sampling protocols
- Experience in managing and analyzing data sets and use of standard statistical software
- Ability to tolerate urban field conditions: very hot, humid weather and moderately strenuous hiking carrying 30 lb. packs
- Strong communication skills
- Driver license valid in New York State
- A positive attitude with enthusiasm for conducting field work and comfort leading and working as part of a team
- Familiarity with New York City natural areas a plus
How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter with the position title, resume and contact information for three references to:
Helen Forgione, Senior Project Manager, Arsenal North, 1234 Fifth Avenue, RM 237, New York, NY 10029
Email: [email protected]
Fax: 212-360-1426
