Social Scientist Job Details | MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION (mo.gov)

Summary/Objective

As part of the MDC social science program, conduct applied social science research to address conservation questions and to understand and improve conservation policy, practice, and outcomes.

Essential Job Duties

• Utilize interdisciplinary social science/human dimensions methods, techniques, and analyses to address conservation-related questions.
• Assist with statistical design of surveys; consult with scientists of programs throughout the Department to determine appropriate methodologies; develop survey budgets; utilize effective survey design and statistical methods in coordination with staff statistician. Interpret results and prepare reports for a variety of audiences.
• Assist with design, data collection, analysis and communication of qualitative research.
• Conduct formative and summative evaluations of Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) programs (internal and external) and work with responsible parties to respond to findings to advance MDC's mission, vision, and values.
• Enhance the social science literacy of natural resource practitioners by assisting in the design and delivery of conservation social science training to natural resource practitioners using a variety of instructional techniques and formats such as team exercises, interactive activities, and group discussions. Assist in the development of tools and resources for practitioners focused on integrating social science into natural resource planning and management such as frequently asked questions (FAQs) and targeted social science guidance that can be used across the Department.
• Work with natural resource practitioners to apply social science theories and methods so that practitioners can identify the social and economic aspects of their work and more effectively conduct public engagement and collaborative partnerships.
• Author manuscripts and papers, write popular articles, edit research newsletters, and make presentations at intra- and interstate technical meetings, and workshops.
• Assist with design and preparation of research proposals, cooperative agreements or grants, and research protocols, including joint management/research and interagency projects. Assists in the preparation of grant proposals to answer research questions that explore trends in socio-ecological data. Provides social science input into conservation planning and program implementation.
• Develop professional skills through training, participation in professional meetings, conferences, and workshops. Stay current with socio-ecological literature, including new or improved methods for exploring and monitoring these systems, and conducts literature searches as required.

Ancillary Job Duties

• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Masters (MA or MS) in human dimensions of natural resources, sociology, rural sociology, or closely related field required. Doctoral (PhD) in human dimensions of natural resources, sociology, rural sociology, or closely related field desired.
• At least three (3) years of relevant professional experience.
• Must maintain a valid, current driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience with qualitative and quantitative data collection, entry, analysis and archiving.
• Fluency with Microsoft Office, statistical software, copier, printer, fax, phone, audio-conferencing systems, etc.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for academic, practitioner, and public audiences.
• Excellent process and project management skills.
• Excellent problem solving, time management, and critical thinking skills.

Work Environment

• Work is typically performed in a standard office environment.
• Occasional travel and/or overnight may be required.

Physical Abilities

• Remain in a stationary position 70% or more of the time.
• Lifting up to 15 lbs.
• Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; an employee will also perform other reasonably related job responsibilities as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required.  The Missouri Department of Conservation reserves the right to revise or change job duties as the need arises.  This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.  Management reserves the right to change job descriptions, job duties, functions, and requirements.

Exemption Status/Special Notes

This position has been determined to be Exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.  Employees must agree to accept compensatory time in lieu of cash payments in accordance with the Department's Compensatory Time Off and Overtime Policy. 

Salaried and hourly employees are expected to use a mobile device-cellular phone for Department business, as needed. 

MDC promotes a Tobacco-Free (smoke and smokeless) working environment.

The Department of Conservation will only hire United States citizens and aliens authorized to work in the United States.  All new employees will be required to complete an "Employment Eligibility Verification" (Form I-9) and produce requested documentation after employment.

Candidates seeking initial employment or re-employment must submit to a drug screen following offer of employment.

All persons employed with the state of Missouri shall file all state income tax forms and pay all state income taxes owed.