The New York State Water Resources Institute (NYSWRI) at Cornell University has as its mission to improve the management of water resources in New York State and the nation. NYSWRI collaborates with regional, state, and national partners to increase awareness of emerging water resources issues and to develop and assess new water resource management approaches, technologies, and policies. NYSWRI connects water research and water management communities.
Restoration Ecologist
The mission of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is to conserve, improve and protect New York’s natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being. The Bureau of Ecosystem Health (BEH) in DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife safeguards New York’s fish and wildlife resources by protecting environmental quality.
The Restoration Ecologist will work with BEH on tasks related to PCB contamination in the Hudson River and natural resource injury determination and quantification, restoration planning, and identifying potential restoration projects for the Hudson River Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA). Specific duties would include:
Key responsibilities will include:
• Assist in the identification of restoration projects and the development of restoration plans for the Hudson River.
• Coordinate with regional BEH staff and other programs and divisions to ensure that state and regional priorities are represented during restoration planning.
• Participate in technical working groups, review technical documents, and make recommendations related to the assessment of injury to Hudson River watershed natural resources.
• Draft technical reports, memoranda, guidance, and data analyses to support restoration recommendations and communicate standard restoration practices.
• Assist in field sampling, as needed, for the Hudson River NRDA and the BEH’s Environmental Monitoring Section.
• Assist in the evaluation of potential NRD assessments and restoration.
This is a one-year (40 hours/week) appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance. There is the opportunity to work remotely within New York State one day a week; an on-site presence in Albany is required four days a week.
No visa sponsorship or relocation assistance are provided for this position.
Requirements / Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
We are looking for a talented individual who builds and maintains effective relationships with multiple stakeholders. We need someone interested in restoration planning and identifying potential restoration projects for the Hudson River. Additionally, we need someone who has the following:
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the field of biological, chemical or physical sciences, with an emphasis on ecology (preferred), natural resource management, or a related field with an environmental restoration focus and 3+ years of professional research experience involving water chemistry and/or ecological restoration science or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical skills.
• Proven experience in communicating effectively, both written and oral.
• Knowledge of how to balance conflicting priorities, make informed decisions, and use sound judgment in completing urgent tasks.
• Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to incorporate current restoration science and policy into planning efforts.
• Working knowledge of riverine and wetland ecosystems and ecosystem services.
• Experience in designing and conducting field sampling work on lakes and streams.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Ability to physically work in field locations that can be difficult to access.
• Must be able to navigate uneven terrain, hills, etc.
• Ability to travel overnight within New York State and work evenings and weekends as essential job functions require.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and well-being.
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Master’s degree in the biological, chemical, or physical sciences, with an emphasis on ecology (preferred), natural resource management, or a related field with an environmental restoration focus.
• Knowledge of environmental contaminants and familiarity with aquatic biota sampling methods.
• Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems
Pay Range
• $66,500 – $68,500
EEO Statement:
Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university’s mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.
