Salmon Watershed Scientist/Program Manager

Wild Salmon Center invites applications for Salmon Watershed Scientist/Program Manager, a full-time, regular exempt position eligible for all WSC benefits. The position is based in WSC’s home office in Portland, Oregon. The person in this position will work with WSC’s Science Director and Science Program staff to develop, manage, and execute applied salmon conservation research, provide scientific support to WSC’s conservation initiatives, collaborate with WSC program staff, and communicate science findings to policy makers, managers, and the public.

The Salmon Watershed Scientist will help maintain and enhance WSC’s reputation and standing as the leading science-based Pacific salmon conservation organization. This position will support priority conservation science projects across the Pacific Rim, including collaborations with a group of world-class conservation scientists who comprise the WSC Science Advisory Board. They will be responsible for coordination between WSC’s Science Program and project partners, as well as project management, collaborative analysis and communication of critical salmon information, concepts, and innovative approaches to salmon conservation. In doing so, the Salmon Watershed Scientist will continue to support WSC in developing, prioritizing, and communicating science-based conservation strategies.

The successful candidate will have a degree in fisheries, freshwater ecology, geomorphology, watershed science, or related field; experience with project management including coordination between WSC and partners, and experience leading or contributing to peer-reviewed publications. They will be mission-driven, skillful at working independently and with teams, and possess a collaborative spirit and excellent communication skills. They will have experience or the capacity to develop skills to work with partners from diverse nations and cultures. We are especially interested in candidates with a strong passion for Pacific salmon conservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage Science Program projects and initiatives including: field sampling; sample processing; data management and analysis; securing research permits; managing project budgets; and other related tasks.
• Work with the Science Director and Program Directors to prioritize and deliver the most appropriate science and technical assistance to projects or initiatives as needed.
• Work with WSC’s Science Director and Communications Program to contribute to peer-reviewed research and to develop science communications that educate and motivate target audiences on key salmon conservation issues.
• Work with WSC’s Science Director and Spatial Ecologist to deliver map-based products to WSC programs and partners.
• Cultivate and maintain collaborative relationships with agency, academic, NGO and private-sector peers to provide guidance and access to the best available science.
• Work with WSC Scientists and the Development Program to help secure funding for priority science initiatives.

Desired Qualifications

• MSc in fisheries, freshwater ecology, geomorphology, watershed science, or related field, or a bachelors and 3-years of work experience
• Experience and interest in project management and coordination
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Working knowledge and experience in using various software applications for GIS and statistics (e.g. ESRI ArcPro, R)
• Knowledge of Pacific salmon life histories and watersheds
• Active participation in and familiarity with applied salmon conservation science
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; effective diplomatic and friendly communication style, and ability to translate complex science and conservation issues into clear and understandable language to diverse audiences
• Passion and commitment to the conservation of wild salmon and their ecosystems
• Ability to participate in field work including hiking in diverse terrain in and around flowing water
• Ability to attend events, meetings and workshops outside of regular work hours as requested and ability to travel regionally and internationally to complete field studies

Compensation

The pay range for this full-time position is between $65,000 and $75,000, commensurate with experience.

Additionally, a comprehensive benefits package, designed to help our employees stay healthy and plan for their financial future, includes:

• 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance (includes employee/spouse, employee/dependent(s), as well as a partial premium for full family coverage)
• Short- and Long-term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) plan that matches at 125% for the first 6% of salary contributed
• Three weeks of vacation (to start), two weeks of sick and twelve paid holidays
• Flexible Spending Account (health & dependent care)
• Support for continuing education
• Cell phone allowance & monthly stipend
• Flexible hybrid work schedule
• Outstanding work culture, including regular opportunities to visit and connect with salmon rivers