Title: WNY PRISM Stewardship Assistants (3 positions available)
Full-time Temporary, 15 weeks, staring around 5/26, $13/hour
Location: Buffalo
Application Deadline: 4/4/14
About WNY PRISM
The Western New York Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (WNY PRISM) was formed to combat the spread of both aquatic and terrestrial invasive species and mitigate associated threats by providing region-wide coordination for invasive species monitoring and management. Our mission is to proactively identify, evaluate and address invasive species priorities in western New York using a coordinated partnership of local professionals, organizations and private citizens to improve, restore and protect aquatic and terrestrial resources.
Position Description
The WNY PRISM Stewardship Assistants (3) will work with WNY PRISM Program Coordinator to increase our capacity for invasive species detection, education, prevention and eradication. This position will involve assisting with development of Boat Launch Stewardship Program, invasive species education, outreach and eradication efforts, invasive species surveys, identifying and reaching out to potential partners, training stewardship volunteers and assisting with outreach events. Stewardship Assistants will work closely with the Education and Outreach Assistant to achieve goals of the WNY PRISM and our Partners.
The Stewardship Assistant position offers candidates a unique opportunity to work with a growing partnership network focusing on invasive species management. WNY PRISM is a supportive and collaborative environment that will provide the opportunity to learn and work within all aspects of invasive species management in the western New York region. Individuals will gain valuable experience and increase their skill levels in the fields of volunteer coordination, program development and invasive species management.
A successful candidate must be flexible with working schedule including a willingness to work some weekends and evenings as well as occasional extended days and overnights.
Job Functions/Responsibilities:
Primary Responsibilities
- Assist with development and coordination of Boat Launch Stewardship Program and volunteer recruitment
- Coordinate and participate in invasive species surveys and mapping
- Assist with invasive species eradication efforts
- Represent WNY PRISM at community events
- Track volunteer participation in stewardship events and activities
- Assist with iMapInvasives Initiative, including participation in surveys and training
- Assist with identification of invasive species education needs within WNY PRISM Region
- Assist with development of educational materials
- Assist with building WNY PRISM Network of Partners and Stakeholders
Additional Responsibilities
- Work with Partners on invasive species eradication efforts
- Assist with future program development
- Develop press releases and articles promoting invasive species management and WNY PRISM
Required Qualifications:
Qualifications
- Completion or in the final year of undergraduate degree (Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources or similar preferred)
- Knowledge of invasive species, invasive species ecology and management
- Strong invasive species and plant identification skills
- Experience with invasive species surveys
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Software (word, excel, power point)
- Experience with invasive species eradication methods
- Experience with use and maintenance of tools and equipment
- Comfortable speaking in front of audiences on various topics
- Self-motivated, work well both independently and in a collaborative setting
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Strong interest in invasive species management
Educational Requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Completion or in the final year of undergraduate degree (Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources or similar preferred)
Job Related Physical Requirements:
Employee may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations and on difficult and hazardous terrain. These conditions often require considerable physical exertion and present the possibility of injury and the need to operate in an especially safe manner.
Travel Requirements:
Employee will be based out of the Great Lakes Center Field Station and extensive travel throughout the 8 county service area of WNY PRISM will be required. Some weekends and evening hours will be required. Occasional overnight trips may be required. Work vehicles may be available for use however, use of personal vehicle will be necessary. Employee will be reimbursed for work related travel when using personal vehicle, at a rate of $0.56 per mile.
The Research Foundation (RF) is not an agency or instrumentality of the State of New York. Employees of the RF are not state employees, do not participate in any state retirement system and do not receive state fringe benefits. The RF operates under a contract with The State University of New York and receives no directly appropriated state funding.