Conservation Program Specialist

The Conservation Program Specialist works with a variety of public and private organizations to carry out scientific and/or educational programs and related activities focused on the conservation and recovery of plants and wildlife and their habitats. This position reports to a Manager level or higher in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Identify opportunities to aid in the recovery of threatened species and habitats.
• Coordinate conservation and restoration efforts.
• Develop conservation plans and partnerships.
• Advise staff on conservation and species recovery issues.
• Coordinate data collection and other project team activities.
• Communicate with external groups and organizations regarding conservation efforts.
• Prepare grant proposals and administers grants.
• Create and cultivate positive public perception regarding conservation.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• We are seeking a broadly trained conservation professional with strong project management and coordination skills to facilitate implementation of SDZWA’s giant panda conservation program.
• A master’s degree in Conservation Management, Biology, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or similar field of study is preferred.
• Areas of expertise important to fulfill position requirements include:
• project planning and management, collection, summary and analysis of biological data, and communication and coordination across diverse stakeholders.
• Experience with one or more of the following disciplinary areas is preferred: translocation biology, population monitoring and adaptive management, resource ecology, disturbance ecology, sensory ecology, molecular ecology, ecosystem health, and biodiversity monitoring.
• The position requires travel to China.
• The successful candidate will facilitate several projects designed to inform conservation management of giant pandas. Fluency in Mandarin is a plus.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• Considerable experience in finishing conservation projects in complex and biologically diverse habitats required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree in biological science or a related field or equivalent specialized training required.
• Current valid California Driver’s License in good standing

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Strong working knowledge of environmental laws and regulations.
• Working knowledge of grant administration.
• Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Prepare grant applications and administer grants.
• Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
• Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

Salary

• Salary Range: $66,560 to $71,640