Environmental Program Manager

Environmental Program Manager for the Smithsonian’s Great Plains Science (GPS) Program

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) invites applications for a Program Manager (IS-12) in our Great Plains Science (GPS) Program. This fast-growing research and outreach program addresses conservation challenges on public and private lands around the American Prairie Reserve (APR) in Central Montana. The Environmental Program Manager works independently and collaboratively to establish GPS as a multidisciplinary program that brings together the critical strengths and experience of the Smithsonian with external partners to provide knowledge on biodiversity and ecosystem conservation and serve as a model for scientifically-based, collaborative approaches to sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem function in human-dominated systems.

We seek an outstanding candidate with a strong scientific background in grassland ecology and management, and substantial experience in managing complex and multidisciplinary science programs. Candidates should hold a PhD in ecology, conservation biology, or related field. Additional skills include an established track record in conducting ecological research; strong program management skills including supervisory experience, grant management, and fund raising; experience bringing together multiple organizations and stakeholders to advance science and conservation programs; ability to develop, execute and monitor strategic science plans; strong written and oral communication skills; proficiency in translating science into outreach materials for the general public; excellent inter-personal skills; and the ability to collaborate with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds including scientists, land managers, landowners, conservationists from local NGOs, Native American communities, and other stakeholders.

Under the direction of the Deputy Director of SCBI, the successful candidate will be expected to

develop, execute, and monitor the GPS. The incumbent will have a broad set of complex duties that include program management (40%), project development (25%), liaison (20%), and independent research (10%).

The incumbent will be the scientific lead for GPS and will serve as the primary liaison between SCBI and all internal and external stakeholders of GPS. This includes convening, leading, and managing a broad range of organizational groups and committees, including a GPS steering committee (composed of SCBI staff and significant community stakeholders) and the GPS scientific advisory team. In addition, the incumbent will work closely with the SCBI Advancement Team and other SI resource groups to generate and manage philanthropic and grant support for GPS.

The primary task in program management will be to work with the various committees to develop, establish and execute a scientific plan for GPS that integrates Smithsonian and SCBI scientific strengths with stakeholder and community needs for conserving biodiversity and ecosystem function through sustainable land management. This plan needs to be consistent with the Smithsonian and SCBI mission and provide the scientific basis for long-range conservation efforts in the region.

The incumbent will develop and execute an outreach strategy that will communicate GPS science to local stakeholders and communities through various outlets (e.g., website, brochures, meetings). This outreach strategy will strengthen and support the existing landowner and volunteer base of GPS. In addition, the incumbent will develop a variety of workshops and training courses tailored to professionals, university students, and/or landowners. Who wish to maintain or restore biodiversity on their lands.

The successful candidate will also be expected to develop research projects involving monitoring and modeling of land use effects on native biodiversity. These projects should advance ecological and conservation research within the broader scope of GPS and SCBI’s research and conservation program. The incumbent will be expected to establish and maintains strong research ties with researchers at SCBI and resource managers at APR. 

SCBI plays a leading role in the Smithsonian’s global efforts to save species from extinction, conserve habitats, and train future generations of conservationists. SCBI spearheads research programs at its headquarters in Front Royal, Virginia, at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and at field research stations and training sites worldwide. SCBI scientists tackle some of today’s most complex conservation challenges by applying and sharing what they learn about animal behavior and reproduction, ecology, genetics, migration and conservation sustainability.

This position will be located within the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. The primary duty station will be located near Malta, Montana, where the American Prairie Reserve is located. The position is IS-12, equivalent to an experienced program manager. The appointment is for one year initially, with likelihood that the position will be made permanent, contingent upon performance and availability of funds.

To apply, send a single PDF file containing a cover letter, a statement of research interest, CV, and contact information for three references to application.to.gps@gmail.com.

Review of applications has been extended to begin April 30, 2021.