Natural Resources Manager – Charlotte, NC
Organization: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department
Position Title: Natural Resources Manager
Location: Charlotte, NC
Hours & Compensation: Full-time. $52,789 – $69,286.
Application Deadline: July 2, 2013.
Posted On: June 18, 2013.
Description:
We are seeking a dedicated and skilled person to lead the department’s highly recognized Natural Resources section. The manager supervises six full time professional employees and oversees all natural resources projects. Provides leadership and directs the development of a comprehensive natural resources program, ensuring all activities are integrated into the department master plan and the overall county strategic plan. The Section is responsible for the management of over 7,200 acres at 23 county nature preserves, as well as providing support for natural areas throughout the 17,500+ acre parks department. The manager works closely with numerous partners, including: NC Wildlife Resources Commission, US Fish & Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, area colleges and universities, and groups such as the Catawba Lands Conservancy, NC Wildlife Federation, Audubon Society, etc.
Responsibilities:
- Coordinate all natural resources projects and initiatives, including strategic planning, master planning, human resource management, budget management, creation and implementation of natural resource management plans, development of scientific and technical papers and publications, technical assistance regarding natural resources on all county-owned lands with regard to county land purchases, assessments, and property development reviews.
- Database management, scientific literature review, evaluation of data collection techniques, and report preparation.
- Effectively interact with various academics, county, state and federal agency personnel, local politicians, environmental groups, journalists, and the general public.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in conservation biology, conservation planning, botany, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field.
- Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum 5 years professional experience required.
- Must understand the principles of conservation biology and the role of science in natural resource management.
- A working knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Piedmont of the Carolinas as well as natural area management techniques required.
- Position requires technical knowledge and field experience in the assessment of natural community types, identification of plant and animal species, and biological inventory and monitoring.
- Ability to hire, train, supervise and motivate staff. Specifically the ability to set priorities, establish work plans, conduct performance reviews, and coach and reward staff as appropriate.
- Ability to prepare and manage a budget, understand and adhere to financial policies, seek and obtain alternative funding, and ensure fiscal responsibility and proper reporting.
- Ability to ensure a successful natural resources program is in place to inventory, monitor, and properly manage sensitive natural areas, nature preserves, endangered and rare species, and Natural Heritage Sites within Mecklenburg County.
- Ability to prepare and write natural resource management plans for individual natural areas, and ensure the coordination, implementation and evaluation of those plans.
- Ability to review development plans and provide technical comments regarding natural area impacts.
- Assist Division Director and Department Director in local and regional strategic planning and land conservation initiatives, including land acquisition.
- Ability to maintain, strengthen and increase partnerships with outside agencies, stakeholder groups, and various county divisions and departments.
- Experience with computer data entry, spreadsheet and database management, report preparation, statistical analysis, and the application of data to adaptive natural resource management.
- Strong organizational, collaborative, and verbal and written communication skills. Ability to prepare and present scientific information in a clear, concise manner to diverse audiences, including public groups, elected officials, and partners.
- Must be able to traverse rigorous terrain and endure difficult field conditions at times.
- Experience using GPS, Arc MAP, Microsoft Excel, and Access.
How to Apply:
Applicants must apply online at www.charmeck.org. Click on the county Jobs link, then on the Jobs Listing link. Select the Natural Resources Manager position (Job ID 7030) and begin the application process. Please attach a résumé to the online application.
Contact Information:
