Science Specialist, Great Plains Program

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Science Specialist, Great Plains Program
Location: Bozeman, Eastern Montana, Northwest South Dakota, Eastern Wyoming
Country: United States
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, dedicated to preserving the natural world and addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 6,000 employees. The organization focuses on various conservation initiatives, including wildlife protection, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation, aiming to create a world where people and nature thrive together.

Job Overview:
The Science Specialist for the Great Plains Program will play a crucial role in coordinating a new two-year project aimed at demonstrating landscape-scale conservation across 40 million acres in southeast Montana. This position involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including NGOs, landowner-led collaboratives, government agencies, and Native Nations. The Science Specialist will be responsible for engaging partners in the region to foster support for a shared conservation vision and to measure progress towards achieving it. This will entail data collection, analysis, and management to assess the impact of conservation efforts on both the people and the natural environment of the region. The Great Plains Program encompasses three primary areas of focus: the Great Plains Wildlife Initiative, the Sustainable Ranching Initiative, and the Science Program, with the Science Specialist reporting to the Science Program while supporting the other two initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Science Specialist will be tasked with coordinating with conservation NGOs, government agencies, landowners, and other entities focused on grassland habitat and wildlife conservation. Responsibilities include managing and coordinating ecological and socioeconomic data collection from Great Plains Program projects, consolidating data from partner organizations and publicly available sources, and inputting this data into a central data platform. The role also involves drafting, reviewing, and editing written program materials to communicate progress to partners and funders. Additionally, the Science Specialist will aid in the development of annual meetings with partners, including agenda creation and logistics coordination. Serving as the main point of contact with other WWF initiatives, the Science Specialist will ensure internal coordination and may co-manage interns to facilitate active learning and support functions. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 4 to 6 years of professional experience or 2+ years with an advanced degree in natural resource management, conservation, or landscape or regional planning. A strong understanding of the impacts of nature loss and climate change on people, nature, and economies is essential, along with a critical perspective on how grassland conservation contributes to solutions. Experience working in rural or agricultural communities is a must, as is a strong background in data management and organization, with the ability to synthesize and analyze data. Familiarity with GIS or spatial data skills is preferred, and strong project management skills are essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to prioritize effectively and produce high-quality work under time constraints, as well as possess excellent organizational and project leadership skills. Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a matrixed team environment is also required.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in natural resource management, conservation, landscape or regional planning, or a related field is required. An advanced degree is preferred and may substitute for some professional experience.

Experience:
The position requires 4 to 6 years of professional experience in relevant fields, or 2+ years of experience with an advanced degree. Candidates should have a demonstrated understanding of conservation practices and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
While no specific language requirements are mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in regions where local languages are spoken.

Additional Notes:
The position is open to candidates willing to work remotely from Eastern Montana, Northwest South Dakota, or Eastern Wyoming, with a preference for local candidates. The expected salary range for this position is between $67,000 and $83,60

• The role may require approximately 30% travel when necessary. WWF is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.