Director of Conservation Science

Date of Notice:

June 12, 2008

Position Title:

Director of Conservation Science

Reporting to:

Senior Vice President

Mission of Position:

The Director of Conservation Science will provide science-based review and comment on development proposals regarding natural resources, ecological restoration and biodiversity. He/she will also provide science-based advice on sound stewardship on Scenic Hudson lands. The Director will develop and proposed science-based region wide policy regarding natural resource values and biodiversity in the Hudson Valley.

Qualifications:

PhD in Ecology, Conservation Biology or related field required. At least ten years of professional experience with an environmental or conservation agency or not-for-profit organization required. Deep understanding of environmental policy, government processes and environmental laws and regulations; as they relate to impact on habitat and communities related to proposed development and redevelopment projects, also required. Strong research, writing and verbal communication skills and computer proficiency (Microsoft Office) required, recognized scientific publication preferred. Must be self-directed, have a demonstrated ability to work well with others and translate complex technical and scientific issues to community members. On occasion, must be able to walk long distances over rough terrain in inclement circumstances, must be able to carry 25-30 lbs. Must share a commitment to the mission and programs of Scenic Hudson.

Background:

Scenic Hudson works to protect and restore the Hudson River and its majestic landscape as an irreplaceable national treasure and a vital resource for residents and visitors. A crusader for the valley since 1963, we are credited with saving fabled Storm King Mountain from a destructive industrial project and launching the modern grass-roots environmental movement. Today with more than 10,000 ardent supporters, we are the largest environmental group focused on the Hudson River Valley. Our team of experts combines land acquisition, support for agriculture, citizen-based advocacy and sophisticated planning tools to create environmentally healthy communities, champion smart economic growth, open up riverfronts to the public and preserve the valley's inspiring beauty and natural resources.

We are guided by these enduring principles:

  • Everyone deserves opportunities to experience the Hudson River, to enjoy open space and to have a voice in decisions affecting their community.
  • The beauty of the Hudson River Valley is a unique source of spiritual and artistic vitality and must be preserved forever.
  • An outstanding quality of life is achievable only when a clean, healthy environment is a key component of economic growth.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  1. Site-Based Conservation Strategies: The Director will look not only at the visual, historic, and human impacts of development, but will also examine the effects of proposed development on biodiversity in much greater depth, incorporating large scale issues of habitat fragmentation and wildlife movement. The Director will review proposed large development projects such as; Pine Plains and Kingston to determine their potential impacts to biodiversity. The findings and recommendations will help inform Scenic Hudson's position on these developments.
  2. Scenic Hudson Parks and Preserves: Scenic Hudson has created or enhanced 40 parks and preserves scattered up and down the valley. Scenic Hudson recognizes that certain uses and their locations may be in conflict with natural resource and biodiversity values. The Director will train Scenic Hudson staff in the collection and use of data as part of their day-to-day duties to assess and manage vernal pools.
  3. Integrate Scenic Hudson's Efforts into Regional Efforts to Protect and Restore Biodiversity: Scenic Hudson has a strong commitment to increase its institutional presence and capacity in biodiversity protection, as well as ensuring that its advocacy and land-preservation efforts are informed by the best-available science.

    Scenic Hudson has recently announced a campaign targeted at saving 65,000 acres of the most important undeveloped lands in the Hudson Valley. Biodiversity factors significantly into Scenic Hudson's land acquisition priorities.

    Restoration has been a key focus of Scenic Hudson and is an important management tool in certain areas. The Director will be consulting with the NYS DEC and other agencies and researchers to develop a list of priority restoration sites in the Hudson Valley, sites where there is a scientific consensus that intervention will produce significant ecological benefits. As part of this analysis, Scenic Hudson properties will also be evaluated. The product of this analysis will be a series of recommendations to Scenic Hudson concerning our future institutional goals in ecological restoration and the locations where Scenic Hudson lands or programmatic interests intersect with bona fide ecological restoration opportunities.

  4. Grant Proposals and Fundraising: The Director provides support to development team in preparation of grant proposals; participates in Scenic Hudson fundraising events.

Compensation

:

Full Time, with competitive salary and benefits

Contact:

Applications should be sent to: HR, Scenic Hudson, One Civic Center Plaza, Suite 200, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 or faxed to: (845) 625-1461 or e-mailed to: tvanyo@scenichudson.org. Send resume and brief writing sample.

No phone calls please.

Scenic Hudson is an EOE promoting cultural diversity and excellence.