Invasive Species Program Specialist- Ann Arbor,MI

Organization: Great Lakes Commission

Position Title: Invasive Species Program Specialist

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Hours and Compensation: full-time, competitive salary

Application Deadline: October 17, 2013

Organization Overview

The Great Lakes Commission, chaired by Kenneth G. Johnson, water division administrator at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, is an interstate compact agency established under state and U.S. federal law and dedicated to promoting a strong economy, healthy environment and high quality of life for the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence region and its residents. The Commission consists of governors’ appointees, state legislators, and agency officials from its eight member states. Associate membership for Ontario and Québec was established through the signing of a “Declaration of Partnership.” The Commission maintains a formal Observer program involving U.S. and Canadian federal agencies, tribal authorities, binational agencies and other regional interests. The Commission offices are located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Learn more at www.glc.org.

Description

The Great Lakes Commission has an immediate opening for a self-starting, highly motivated team player to work on Great Lakes aquatic invasive species (AIS) and habitat restoration projects. This is a junior-level position reporting to project managers and program directors. The individual will provide staff support on issues such as the Great Lakes Phragmites Collaborative and other habitat and invasive species-related projects. The incumbent must be an excellent communicator with a background in natural resources or a related field. Tasks will include assisting with development of policy and research reports on habitat and AIS issues, communications and outreach to a diverse audience through social media, presentations and written documents; meeting planning, coordination and facilitation in support of collaborative partnerships; and other related work.

The position is a full-time, limited-term position for one year, with the possibility for renewal based on mutual interest and funding availability. The Great Lakes Commission offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that includes medical and optical insurance. The Commission also has an outstanding retirement program.

Responsibilities

The Invasive Species Program Specialist will assist with communication, coordination, facilitation and planning efforts and research and policy development to support the Commission’s Great Lakes aquatic invasive species and habitat restoration programs.

Specific responsibilities include the following:

• Work with project managers in support of various projects and programs, including the Great Lakes Phragmites Collaborative;
• Develop content for and assist in maintenance of www.greatlakesphragmites.net and related social media;
• Assist with project coordination, meeting planning and facilitation;
• Provide outreach via written and verbal communications to diverse partner groups engaged in invasive species;
• Prepare detailed memos and papers on AIS policy and issues;
• Promote communication, coordination, partnerships and technology transfer between federal, state, and local partners in the public and private sectors; and
• Work collaboratively with Commission staff and other partners to develop communications, outreach programs and tools to promote invasive species and habitat restoration programs, resources and opportunities.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate is an excellent communicator and planner with a positive attitude, a solid background in natural resources management and knowledge of Great Lakes restoration issues. Strong written and verbal communications skills are a must, including the ability to translate complex science or legal information to policymakers and the public. Specific knowledge of or experience with non-native Phragmites and other aquatic invasive species is strongly preferred. Experience communicating with different audiences (e.g., public, scientific, and policy) and interest in collaborating with and coordinating diverse stakeholder groups is required. Also desired is experience planning and conducting meetings, providing committee support and supporting strategic planning for the Commission’s continued work in this area. Familiarity with social media, desktop publishing and internet applications is a plus. Knowledge of the Great Lakes, regional government, water quality, land use and related resource management issues is also a plus.

Required qualifications:

• Master’s degree in natural resources management, biology, ecology, environmental science or policy, or a related field, and at least one year of experience; or a bachelor’s degree and three or more years of equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of water resource management issues, especially aquatic invasive species prevention and management
• Strong communication skills (both verbal and writing)
• Strong computer skills including MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) and WordPress
• Strong leadership skills, including the ability to plan and facilitate meetings
• Team player, interested in working collaboratively with both Commission staff and project partners
• Self-motivated, energetic, strategic thinker
• Familiarity with web-conferencing/remote meeting technology and social media

Preferred qualifications:

• Familiarity with group facilitation and strategic planning
• Writing grant proposals and supporting program development efforts

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

The majority of work is performed in a general office setting with no unusual workplace demands. The incumbent needs to be able to work in a fast-paced, time-sensitive, sometimes stressful environment, requiring significant time management skills to complete assignments and meet deadlines. Some travel will be required.

How to Apply

The requirements for this application include a cover letter, resume, three references, a short writing sample, salary history and desired starting salary. Please note: All of these items must be provided if applicant is to receive consideration.

Application Deadline: October 17

Please submit your application by mail or e-mail to the following address:
Great Lakes Commission       ATTN. Matt Doss, Policy Director       Eisenhower Corporate Park       2805 S. Industrial Hwy., Suite 100       Ann Arbor, MI 48104-6791       E-Mail: [email protected]
No phone calls, please

Contact

Email: [email protected]