Ecologist

The position is located on the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Position Summary:

Under limited supervision, assists the Director with the implementation and management of the Tohono O'odham Nation's natural resources activities specifically in providing wildlife and botanical expertise for the conservation, utilization, protection, and management of its natural resources.

The work is normally reviewed upon completion to ensure compliance with general organization/department goals, policies and procedures. Major work activities are covered by procedures or guidelines permitting flexibility in selecting methods to utilize and procedures to follow, determination of work priorities, and the planning and coordination of projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develops and implements methods and procedures for the collection and analysis of data on natural resources.
• Analyzes data to evaluate quantity and quality of plant and animal species to include the ecosystems, natural habitats, watersheds and range lands; identifies areas for habitat protection and/or improvements; prepares technical specifications for subcontracting projects as needed.
• Maintains special projects on the habitat of unique, rare, threatened, and endangered plant and animal species.
• Administers and supervises subcontractors, researchers, interns, and other professionals contracted to provide services for natural resource projects.
• Develops and maintains a computer database on all natural resources research and operational technical data.
• Develops and implements a management and protection plan for the wildlife, plants and physical resources of the Tohono O'odham Nation.
• Meets with the appropriate governing bodies and other entities that will contribute to the development of new laws, ordinances, and/or resolutions as needed; communicates with the Chairman, Legislative Council, to keep them apprised of developments.
• Establishes contact and maintains working relationships with state and federal agencies, tribal members, tribal officials, resource managers, scientists and other resource professionals to determine and clarify project requirements.
• Searches for funding sources for special projects from the federal, state, local, foundation and private sector.
• Prepares reports and maps summarizing natural resources technical activities and data.
• Prepares recommendations for annual budgets for personnel, equipment, supplies, and subcontracts.
• Directs and coordinates efforts to promote and/or provide education in natural resources.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by conducting research, attending seminars and meetings, educational workshops, classes and conferences; reviewing professional publications; establishing networks; participating in professional societies; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
• Improves staff effectiveness by coaching, counseling, training and recommending disciplinary action for employees; planning, delegating, monitoring, and appraising job tasks and results in a timely manner.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
• Knowledge of biology, ecology, and conservation principles and practices.
• Knowledge of field data collection methodologies and analyzing data.
• Knowledge of the Sonoran Desert fauna and flora and their habitat.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and functions of state and federal agencies and private organizations involved in conservation and management.
• Knowledge of the Geographic Information System (GIS) and in the operation of the Global Position System (GPS) equipment.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of data collection equipment, scientific instruments, and gear for various sampling techniques and methodologies in both field and laboratory.
• Skill in planning and conducting surveys of habitat and organisms to define problems and recognize opportunities.
• Skill in applying scientific methods and approaches in the planning and conducting of research projects and resource investigations.
• Skill in applying statistical procedures, to analyze and evaluate data and apply sound judgment in arriving at conclusions and recommendations.
• Skill in preparing, reviewing, and analyzing operational and financial reports.
• Skill in supervising, training, and evaluating assigned staff.
• Skill in providing superior customer service to external and internal customers.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Ability to interpret applicable federal, state, county and local laws, regulations, and requirements.
• Ability to operate and maintain data collection equipment, scientific instruments, and gear for various sampling techniques and methodologies in both field and laboratory.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
• Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
• Ability to travel within the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Ecology, Biology or closely related field and two years' work experience in related field, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.
• One year of supervisory experience.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

• Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
• May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
• If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
• Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.