Conservation Program Specialist

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

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

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Salaried Full-Time Exempt Position
• Salary Range: $66,560 to $71,640