Monday, June 26, 2017

Biosphere 2 Algal Turf Scrubber Construction Video




During Spring Break 2017 a group of ENST students visited Biosphere 2 in Arizona as part of a travel-study course.  Activities included the set-up of an algae-based water treatment system to improve water quality inside the structure, which is described in this video that was produced by one of the participating students, Elizabeth O'Keefe.

Technical Writing Internship

The National Water Research Institute (NWRI) is seeking a current undergraduate or graduate level college student for a paid, part-time Communication/Technical Writing Internship.
The Intern will assist the Communications Director of a nonprofit research organization with a broad range of writing assignments related to the water sciences: specifically drinking
water, wastewater, and water reuse.  Writing assignments may include electronic newsletters, website and social media content, press releases, grant proposals, and handouts/flyers on
specific topics.  The intern also will assist with editing and formatting technical reports and other documents.

REQUIREMENTS:
•       Strong written and oral communication skills.
•       Strong critical thinking, organizational, and teamwork skills.
•       Ability to perform duties in a timely manner and under deadline.
•       Experience with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Candidates must provide the following items: (1) a cover letter addressing both (a) how their schooling relates to this internship and (b) what they can contribute to NWRI; (2) a
resume; and (3) two writing samples (each two pages or less).  Email the complete application to Eileen Chao at echao@nwri-usa.org.

Entry Level Aquatic Toxicologist

Vital Habitat Goal Implementation Team Position Vacancy

Ecosystem Services Scientist

Ducks Unlimited
Position Announcement
Ecosystem Services Scientist


Ducks Unlimited is seeking a wetlands ecologist, hydrologist or natural resource economist to synthesize existing science to quantify and communicate ecosystem services outcomes of its conservation programs.  The successful applicant will focus initially on three higher order objectives: (1) development and/or synthesis of science-based information to assess effects of DU’s conservation work on water quantity and quality; (2) synthesis of the science-based information into a form that can be easily communicated and conveyed to DU staff engaged in development of partnerships with industry and foundations, and to policy staff and others engaged in advocacy to secure favorable wetlands public policy outcomes; (3) active participation in the scientific community by publishing peer-reviewed manuscripts and participating in professional meetings and discussions, and engaging and cooperating with DU’s science staff across Ducks Unlimited, Inc., Ducks Unlimited Canada, and Ducks Unlimited de Mexico.

Education, Experience, and Reporting
The successful candidate will have a M.S. or Ph.D. in Wetland Ecology, Hydrology, Natural Resource Economics, or a related field, a minimum of 5 years of related experience, and the ability to develop and/or synthesize science, and communicate science-based information to fundraising, marketing and public policy staff.  Additionally, the successful candidate will develop relationships with scientists in academia, industry and government to foster development of innovative conservation solutions that lead to significant advances in landscape scale wetland conservation. A detailed understanding of wetland and wildlife conservation programs, conservation related policy and legislation, and the ability to locate, review and synthesize technical information related to ecosystem services with emphasis on wetlands and associated uplands is essential.  We seek a highly motivated, self-starter with a willingness to work with a team of dedicated conservation professionals to develop innovative conservation approaches to challenging landscape-scale conservation issues.  This position will report to the Chief Scientist at DU’s National Headquarters in Memphis, TN., and will cooperate with DU scientists located across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.  Please submit a cover letter detailing experience and interest in the position, and resume via our website: http://www.ducks.org/About-Ducks-Unlimited/Jobs-at-Ducks-Unlimited by         July 14, 2017.  Prospective applicants with questions about this position may contact Dr. Tom Moorman, DU Chief Scientist at tmoorman@ducks.org .




Ducks Unlimited, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

Coastal Restoration Technician


POSITION DESCRIPTION


POSITION TITLE
Coastal Restoration Technician
DATE
June 1, 2017

SUMMARY
The Nature Conservancy of New Jersey is working with partners to pilot living shoreline and salt marsh restoration techniques that are relatively new to New Jersey. The Coastal Restoration Technician will work with TNC staff to conduct maintenance on the living shoreline project, assist with monitoring of the salt marsh restoration project, and create maps and data products. Work will include long days in the field carrying and placing heavy materials over uneven, wet and muddy ground. In addition, office work will be required to arrange logistics and create data products and maps. As some of the work is tide dependent, the work day will sometimes begin before 8 or end after 5 and some weekend and evening work may be required. The Technician may instruct interns and citizen science groups as part of the restoration effort.

Term of position is 3 months (July through September 2017). This position will be located in Delmont, NJ. Housing is available. The position is for 35 hours of work per week at $12 per hour with housing provided or $18 per hour without housing.  Employees are responsible for their own transportation to and from the office.


ESSENTIAL
FUNCTIONS
The Coastal Restoration Technician assists and executes field and office activities related to living shoreline and marsh restoration projects. S/he schedules field days, is responsible for and maintains equipment and supplies, will be required to carry heavy materials over uneven, muddy terrain, and will input field collected data using TNC standard procedures. The Coastal Restoration Technician may also be responsible for towing, launching, and driving small watercraft to and between project sites. S/he will create maps and GIS products.  


RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
  • Supervises no staff, but may help plan and direct small work groups, including staff or volunteers.     
  • Makes day-to-day decisions as delegated by supervisor.                                                                                                  
  • May work under infrequent supervision.
  • As part of field work, the Coastal Restoration Technician will work in harsh weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. The Coastal Restoration Technician will work with a colleague(s) when these field conditions are present.
  • The position requires someone who can work long hours and a flexible schedule including occasional weekends and evenings.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
  • Experience recognizing plant and animal species.        
  • Experience working in a team environment.
  • Valid Driver’s License                                           
  • Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (i.e. New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate).


PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
  • BA/BS in environmental science-related field and 1 to 2 years of relevant experience or the equivalent
  • Experience creating maps and data analysis using ArcGIS software
  • Experience working with or knowledge of coastal systems, especially wetland and/or living shorelines
  • Ability to drive a truck with a trailer and drive a motor boat
  • Experience using common software applications such as Word, Excel, Web browsers, etc.
  • Experience planning and executing fieldwork
  • Experience working with volunteers
  • Ability to perform physical work under adverse conditions or in inclement weather
  • Demonstrated organizational skills
  • Ability to follow instructions from colleagues


To apply:
visit www.nature.org/about-us/careers and search for Recruitment ID #45513 in the keyword search.
Submit resume (required) and cover letter separately using the upload buttons.

All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, June 25, 2017.

Endangered Species Education and Outreach Position

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, West Virginia Field Office - Endangered Species Education and Outreach AmeriCorps Position

The USFWS West Virginia Field Office located in Elkins, WV, is looking for a creative, self-motivated individual to support the development and growth of environmental education in our region. This position will assist the Endangered Species Program with education and outreach events, and other habitat conservation activities. Our organization believes that taking the time to introduce both children and adults to nature, and to educate them about the wonders of the environment they live in, allows them to develop a sense of place and an understanding of the natural world that will continue to teach and inspire them for a lifetime. Duties include planning and implementing events, partnerships and collaboration, newsletters, blogs, social media, speaking at schools, and ...did we mention events? Other duties may include some hands on river clean ups, non-native invasive species control, and field monitoring. Educational programming will focus on threatened and endangered species of WV and non-native invasive species. This includes a diversity of endangered species such as our charismatic cave-dwelling bats, surprisingly-fascinating freshwater mussels, crayfish, plants, salamanders, and more! Other projects and tasks may be included, depending on the specific interests of the AmeriCorps member. This member will be encouraged to work with other agencies and organizations (such as the Forest Service, Refuges, local schools, etc.) to develop projects.  Opportunities for professional development and networking are also encouraged and supported.  Our office prides itself on creating a fun, safe work environment and we are always happy to accept new talent. Applicants should be comfortable speaking with the public and working with volunteers.  The position will start September 5, 2016 and will be full-time for 11 ½ months. AmeriCorps members serve full-time and receive a living allowance, plus an educational award at the completion of your one year commitment. For more information on AmeriCorps, including additional benefits see http://www.americorps.org/for_individuals/overview/index.asp

More details about the Appalachian Forest Heritage Area Americorps program, candidate requirements, and information on how to apply can be found here:
http://www.afha.us/americorps.htm

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Extension Educator

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION (UME)

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Title:  Agent
Functional Title:  Extension Educator, Agriculture
Position Number:  103476
Category Status:  Faculty Non Tenured, On Track, Full-Time
Unit:  AGNR-UME- Lower Shore Cluster (Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties)

Home Office Location: UME Wicomico County Office, 28647 Old Quantico Road, Salisbury, MD 21801

Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The Extension Agriculture Educator is responsible for planning, organizing, developing, implementing, and evaluating Extension educational programs for the agricultural community.  Specifically, this position will provide leadership and delivery of educational programming related to fruit and vegetable growers, commercial horticulture and general agronomy. This includes production, harvesting, packing and marketing as well as good agricultural practices, food safety, and other sustainability issues. The Educator will facilitate partnerships with local and state agencies, elected officials, communities, landowners, residents, industry and environmental groups in developing economic opportunities while protecting, as well as advocating for a science-based and responsible approach to handling the state’s natural resources.  The faculty member will be on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with University policy and UME tenure guidelines within a timeframe defined.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop, promote, implement and evaluate agriculture education programs in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester Counties.
  • Develop and provide leadership in fruit and vegetable production, commercial horticulture, farm management, integrated pest management, pesticide safety and handling, nutrient management, financial management and natural resource conservation for producers, as well as diverse and underserved populations, in the Lower Shore Cluster Counties.
  • Teach targeted audience farming practices, procedures, techniques and skills that will ultimately result in positive behavioral and/or practice change over time.
  • Serve as a Core Member on the Agriculture and Food Systems Focus Team, working collaboratively with UME Action Teams to identify and develop statewide priorities and signature programs, as well as how and where they need to be implemented across the state.
  • Establish a subject matter expertise in agriculture and lead appropriate applied and problem-solving research in that area.
  • Interpret and disseminate the latest research findings in the fields relevant to the position utilizing publications and state of the art education and communication techniques.
  • Perform teaching, scholarship and service requirements of a faculty member of the University of Maryland.  This is a tenure track position requiring documented accomplishments in the areas of research, teaching, and service.  

Qualifications:
Required –
  • M.S. in horticulture or agricultural sciences or related field of study.
  • Background required in the area of fruit and vegetable production and commercial horticulture, with basic business and marketing skills.  Possess knowledge of agronomic farming practices that includes: IPM, high tunnel and greenhouse production, plasticulture systems, nutrient management, irrigation, and the harvesting and handling of safe produce under GAP protocol.
  • Demonstrated leadership and management abilities with evidence of being able to work well with volunteers and diverse clientele.
  • Personal transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be willing to travel within the assigned counties and state.  
  • Flexible work schedule required for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and needs.
  • Evidence of excellent teaching & communication skills.
  • Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management is required.
  • This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.
Preferences –
  • Ph.D. in horticulture or agricultural sciences or related field of study.
  • Extension or similar work experience (e.g., work with community economic development, energy technologies and business education).  Experience working with volunteers desirable.
  • Preference will be given to individuals with experience working with diverse audiences and all socioeconomic levels.

Physical Demands of the Position:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Nature of the Position: This position frequently presents information through vocal and written communication to individuals of various ages, socio-economic, and educational backgrounds. The ability to express or exchange ideas vocally is important, as well as the ability to hear and perceive information at normal spoken work levels.
  • Physical Demands: A routine part of this position's responsibilities would be to transport materials to and from teaching/event locations, including loading and unloading the vehicle. The employee will frequently lift and/or move items weighing up to 20 pounds. Set-up and tear-down of displays, tables, and chairs would be necessary at many teaching sites.
  • Environmental: Team driven, office environment of professional character, competence, and collaboration. Deadline driven in terms of program planning and reporting. This position requires the employee to work outdoors at certain times of the year, especially during the time of annual fair, 4-H residential or day camps and youth recreation activities.   This may occur during very hot and/or inclement weather.
  • Visual Acuity: Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data and presentations.

Salary & Benefits:
Salary will be commensurate with experience: Master’s Base: $51,575; Ph.D. Base: $61,650. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.

Applications:
All candidates must apply online at www.ejobs.umd.edu. A complete application packet includes a letter of application, a current (signed) resume or Curriculum Vitae, copies of transcripts (official transcripts will be required if offered the position), and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Closing Date: For best consideration, apply by July 31, 2017 or until an acceptable candidate is identified.



The University of Maryland, College Park, actively subscribes to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, genetic information, political affiliation, and gender identity or expression. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.


Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Watershed Action Team Positions

Watershed Action Team:
Description:
Watershed Action Team – 10 month workforce and professional development program for individuals 18 years and older, Howard County residents preferred.  One team will consist of 5 individuals with interest and/or career tracks in environmental management.  The WAT will provide direct service to County Departments (stream restoration maintenance, forest conservation easement maintenance, bioretention maintenance, tree planting maintenance, stream channel (debris) maintenance) while working strategically to study, assess, plan and implement projects in a specific watershed during the term.  WAT members will receive a monthly stipend, health insurance and paid leave.

From Sept, 2017-June 2018, the Watershed Action Team (WAT) will focus on the Tiber Hudson subwatershed (drains to Historic Ellicott City) due to ongoing work (Ellicott City - Soak It Up) and pending grant proposals for this geographic area.  The WAT will review existing plans, reports and strategies related to the watershed.  WAT will conduct assessments to help fill data gaps (e.g. Tiber and/or New Cut Branch stream assessments; neighborhood assessments not conducted in the 2012 Tiber Hudson Subwatershed Restoration Action Plan).  WAT will use existing information and data collected from assessments to develop an outreach strategy to the community for in-ground and behavior change projects.  WAT will conduct outreach to homeowner associations and private landowners to complete identified projects.  Projects that remain and not completed by WAT at the end of their term, will be completed by the 2018/2019 summer READY program.  WAT and the READY program (Crew Leaders and Assistant Crew Leaders) will overlap for one week at the end of June.  WAT members will be certified as Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professionals and receive training in stream assessments, neighborhood assessments, site assessments, proposal preparation, project planning and Best Management Practice implementation.

Applications will open soon!  If you would like to be notified when applications open, please send an email of interest to hcecoworks@gmail.com

Friday, June 2, 2017

Extension Agent Position

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Title: Agent
Functional Title: Energy Conservation and Technology Specialist
Position Number: 103608
Category Status: Faculty, Non-Tenured, On Track
Unit: AGNR-UME-West Region

Location: Western Maryland Research & Education Center, Keedysville, Maryland

Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The Energy Conservation and Technology Specialist is responsible for planning, organizing, developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs for Maryland communities and citizens.  Specifically, this position will provide leadership and delivery of educational programming related to energy conservation and clean energy technology including solar, wind, biomass, natural gas and other applications. The Specialist will facilitate partnerships with university colleagues, local and state agencies, elected officials, communities, landowners, industry and environmental groups in developing sustainable energy practices and opportunities while protecting, as well as advocating for a science-based and responsible approach to handling the state’s water, forest and other natural resources.

The Specialist is expected to be a part of the AGNR and UME faculty team as well as provide leadership for the energy related programming within the Environment and Natural Resource Focus Area, one of four UME strategic programming initiatives.  It is the responsibility of the Specialist to work intentionally and collaboratively to increase the visibility and reach of Extension programs through education designed to meet the needs of diverse audiences.  The Specialist will interpret and disseminate the latest research findings using a variety of delivery and communication strategies appropriate for the intended target audience, including but not limited to workshops, classes, demonstration projects, webcasts, social media, publications, mass media and community coalitions. The faculty member will be on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with University policy and UME tenure guidelines within a timeframe defined.

Qualifications:  
Required
  • Master’s degree with three to five years of related experience.
  • Background in area of natural resources, agriculture and energy conservation and technology.
  • Demonstrated leadership and management abilities with evidence of being able to work well with volunteers and diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management is required.
  • Personal transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be willing to travel within the assigned counties and state.  
  • Flexible work schedule required for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and needs.
  • Evidence of excellent teaching & communication skills.
  • This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.
Preferred
  • Ph.D. preferred with two years of experience.
  • Extension or similar work experience preferred (e.g., work with community economic development, energy technologies and business education).  
  • Experience working with volunteers desirable.
  • Preference will be given to individuals with experience working with diverse audiences and all socioeconomic levels.

Physical Demands of the Position:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Nature of the Position: This position frequently presents information through vocal and written communication to individuals of various ages, socio-economic, and educational backgrounds. The ability to express or exchange ideas vocally is important, as well as the ability to hear and perceive information at normal spoken work levels.
  • Physical Demands: A routine part of this position's responsibilities would be to transport materials to and from teaching/event locations, including loading and unloading the vehicle. The employee will frequently lift and/or move items weighing up to 20 pounds. Set-up and tear-down of displays, tables, and chairs would be necessary at many teaching sites.
  • Environmental: Team driven, office environment of professional character, competence, and collaboration. Deadline driven in terms of program planning and reporting. This position requires the employee to work outdoors at for programs and events. This may occur during very hot and/or inclement weather.
  • Visual Acuity:  Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data and presentations.

Salary & Benefits:
Salary will be commensurate with experience: Master’s Base: $51,575; Ph.D. Base: $61,650. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.

Applications:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu. A complete application packet includes a cover letter, resume or CV, copies of transcripts, and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Closing Date: For best consideration, complete application by July 1, 2017.  Position will remain open until suitable candidate has been identified.



The University of Maryland, College Park, actively subscribes to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, genetic information, political affiliation, and gender identity or expression. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.