Purpose of Position:

The Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (MAR) at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (MSI) seeks a qualified and motivated individual to lead the NERR’s Stewardship Sector. The position will coordinate and participate in the completion of resource and land management-focused projects, including removal of invasive species, vegetation monitoring, living shoreline and restoration work, marine debris cleanups, and updating, maintaining, and developing spatial databases and GPS applications for Reserve projects. This position will participate in regional stewardship meeting/groups and assist with visiting researchers, volunteers, and other collaborative efforts.  Additional duties include supervising stewardship staff, grant management, and working with local, state, and federal partners.

General Notes:

POSITION IS LOCATED AT THE UT MARINE SCIENCE INSTITUTE IN PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS.

Position is expected to renew annually. Only individuals authorized to work in the United States will be considered.

The Marine Science Institute welcomes and respects all individuals and communities by valuing and consciously maintaining awareness of diverse perspectives and experiences.  We believe inclusivity is critical to fostering excellence in all of our endeavors, and we promote STEM diversity in our recruiting, hiring, and retention practices.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Direct the Reserve’s Stewardship Program, including developing annual NOAA award work plans and budgets, contributing to semi-annual reports to NOAA, and participating on all core team tasks and responsibilities (15%).
• Participate fully in national NERRS Stewardship Program activities and represent MAR within the NERRS network more generally (5%)
• Conduct field work and data analysis related to vegetation monitoring of emergent marsh, mangrove, and upland habitats (5%).
• Collect geospatial data and provide GIS and mapping support to Reserve staff as needed. Includes data collection for vertical control needs for the MAR (10%).
• Serve as a liaison with the resource management community by promoting data utilization and acting as a contact for resource and land managers (10%).
• Support existing cleanup and recycling programs around the Reserve (5%).
• Coordinate special studies and stewardship activities within or related to the Reserve as needed (15%).
• Work with the Coastal Training Program, Education, and Research Coordinator to integrate stewardship ethics into individual programs. (10%).
• Advising and participating in relevant local and regional workgroups and committees to advance coastal and estuarine science, stewardship, conservation, and restoration (5%).
• Grant writing and management (10%).
• Perform related work as assigned, including supervising employees (10%).

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree in marine science, environmental science, wildlife biology, or related field.
• Two years of recent experience in research, resource management, or conservation.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of ecology and the flora and fauna of the Texas coast.
• Previous experience monitoring vegetation communities and removal of invasive species.
• Field work experience is essential.
• Ability to collect and manage geospatial data using advanced GPS equipment and Geographical Information Systems software
• Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze, and interrupt spatial data.
• Ability to effectively communicate both written and verbally to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Computer literacy in Microsoft Office required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in marine science, environmental science, wildlife biology, or related field.
• Experience with grant development, writing and management.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, managing and applying GIS tools and products to address natural resource protection, management and restoration issues
• Demonstrated expertise using modern field sampling equipment and associated data management & analysis software programs
• Experience operating various sizes of boats.
• Supervisory experience.
• Level of familiarity with relevant federal agencies (NOAA, USFWS), state agencies (TGLO, TPWD, TxDOT) and local agencies (ACND, CBBEP, TNC).
• Experience planning, designing, and carrying out habitat management & restoration projects in coastal ecosystems, and in monitoring the outcomes of such projects; experience working with agency staff, academic researchers, non-governmental organizations and other partners to accomplish restoration & management projects