Position Overview
The Conservation Science Manager leads the planning and implementation of Ontario Nature’s community science and applied conservation research initiatives, works closely with the Nature Reserves Manager and Executive Director (currently)/Conservation Science and Stewardship Director (long-term). This includes delivery of Ontario Nature’s contribution to the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas in the areas of community engagement and targeted field work, conservation research projects focused on best practices for monitoring and conservation of species of conservation concern, and research related to the management of nature reserves.
The ideal candidate has a proven ability to manage complex projects and lead teamwork in a fast-paced environment. They have experience working collaboratively with researchers, Indigenous communities, conservation organizations, governments, and stakeholders across sectors to advance conservation and shared interests.
About Ontario Nature
Ontario Nature is a charitable conservation organization that protects wild species and wild spaces across Ontario through conservation, education and public engagement. We represent over 155 member groups, and more than 30,000 individual members and supporters throughout the province. We are there wherever and whenever nature needs us most. To learn more, visit: ontarionature.org.
Why Work with Ontario Nature
- Flexible work hours and location, in accordance with our Remote Work Policy
- Progressive workspace and membership perks at the Centre for Social Innovation in Toronto
- Generous vacation leave and 4 paid days off in addition to statutory holidays during our office closure in late December
- 12 paid sick days per year and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental and group RRSP program
- Fulfilling, purpose-driven work, alongside 30 passionate and committed colleagues
- An ongoing commitment to create an inclusive and equitable environment for employees, volunteers, members and supporters
- Opportunities for advancement, skill development and cross-sectoral collaboration
- Support for taking initiative and pursuing aligned personal interest projects
- Team building and social opportunities
Principal Responsibilities
PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION:
- Lead stakeholder and partner engagement in the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (ORAA).
- Lead Ontario Nature’s involvement in the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (Atlas-3).
- Cultivate other strategic partnerships with researchers and volunteers involved in conservation projects.
PROJECT AND EVENT MANAGEMENT:
- Oversee the completion of the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas publication.
- Oversee data management and analysis for the conservation science program and projects.
- Lead the planning and delivery of outreach events, targeted research and community engagement for the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas-3.
- Oversee conservation activities and field work for priority conservation projects in collaboration with the Nature Reserves Manager.
PLANNING, EVALUATION AND BUDGETS:
- Lead program planning, including operating plans, communications plans, and logic models, ensuring consistency with organizational goals, and strategic plan.
- Track and evaluate achievement of program goals and objectives and project deliverables.
- Work with the Executive Director and future Director of Conservation Science and Stewardship to develop program and project budgets and manage these budgets.
FUNDRAISING:
- Work with the development team and program staff to develop funding proposals and reports to funders.
- Work with the development team to support organizational fundraising efforts and effective donor and community relations, as directed.
COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH:
- Act as a key spokesperson with the media and others on conservation science matters, especially Ontario Nature’s community science work.
- Lead the development of print and online content and outreach materials to promote public understanding of and support for community science priorities.
- Work with other Ontario Nature staff to respond to questions about science and natural history and to provide outreach assistance.
- Support and advise on content referencing community science initiatives and other conservation projects for communications and development materials.
STAFF MANAGEMENT:
- Manage conservation science program staff, including hiring, supervision, work planning and performance management.
- Manage hiring and supervision of external consultants.
OTHER:
- Adhere to Ontario Nature’s confidentiality standards for sensitive data.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in the natural sciences, resource management, or a relevant field.
- Minimum five years relevant work experience.
- Ability to play an inspirational, leadership role working with community scientists.
- Ability to work respectfully with members of Indigenous communities, representatives of organizations outside the conservation community and newcomers to Canada.
- Sound knowledge of Ontario’s flora and fauna, with particular expertise related to reptiles, amphibians and birds.
- Proven ability to supervise and motivate staff and volunteers.
- Demonstrated skills in project planning and management including budgeting and fundraising.
- Strong verbal, listening and written communications skills.
- Demonstrated ability to provide advice on graduate student research projects.
- Strong planning, data management and analytical skills.
- Superior problem-solving skills, sound judgment and self-reliance.
- Proficiency in ArcGIS software and all applications of the Microsoft Office suite of programs including PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.
- Current first aid and CPR certification.
- Valid class G driver’s license.
- Desirable assets include:
- Experience with facilitating meetings among diverse organizations.
- Experience of working with Indigenous communities on conservation initiatives.
Anticipated Start Date: October/November 2022
Type of Position: Full-time, permanent
Compensation: $66,000 – $83,000 per year
Location: This position will be based at Ontario Nature’s Head Office (720 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON. This position may work remotely within southern Ontario in accordance with Ontario Nature’s operational Remote Work Policy.
Working conditions
The job requires travel across Ontario and flexibility to accommodate weekend and evening work for field work, meetings, events, and to meet certain funding deadlines.
Physical Requirements
On occasion, the job can be physically demanding, including hiking, snow-shoeing, tree-planting, hole-digging and camping in uncomfortable conditions. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time during some events and occasionally lift heavy objects of around 30 lbs.
Direct Reports
- Conservation Projects Coordinator
- Conservation Projects Technician
- Program interns and assistants
To Apply
- Include your resume, cover letter and three references in one PDF document, addressing your qualifications and experience.
- Include “Conservation Science Manager” in the subject line.
- Email your application to jobs@ontarionature.org
- Deadline for applications: October 16, 2022.
- We encourage interested candidates to apply sooner as we will conduct screenings and schedule interviews throughout the application window.
Although Ontario Nature appreciates the efforts of all those who apply for this position, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No unsolicited emails or phone calls please.
Ontario Nature is committed to employment equity, diversity and accessibility. Requests for disability-related accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should make their requirements known when contacted.
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