Conservation Associate-Fixed

Michigan State University - Lansing, MI

Full-time - Entry Level

Lansing, MI

Educational Services

About the position

The Conservation Associate position at Michigan State University Extension focuses on collecting, analyzing, and communicating information about Michigan's natural communities. The role involves maintaining the Natural Heritage Database and collaborating with various stakeholders to guide biodiversity conservation efforts. The position requires expertise in natural community identification and ecosystem valuation, with responsibilities including field data collection, data management, scientific writing, and outreach activities. This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment with potential for renewal based on performance and funding.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct field surveys, monitoring, and research of natural communities and rare and declining species.
• Collect, evaluate, analyze, and disseminate ecological information and manage data within multiple databases.
• Assist with the maintenance and expansion of Michigan's Natural Heritage Database regarding natural community occurrences.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships intra- and inter-organizationally, including with Tribal communities and natural resource managers.
• Create and promote positive public relations for MSU Extension and the Michigan Natural Features Inventory.
• Communicate and interact with professional networks to evaluate the needs of the conservation community.
• Prepare grant proposals to fund new projects that meet MNFI's mission.
• Provide technical assistance and training to communicate current information on natural communities and biodiversity stewardship.
• Disseminate information about ecosystems through project reports, publications, and presentations.
• Assist with and/or lead project management and implementation, including proposal preparation for funding.
• Engage in outreach activities with the public and scientific community.
• Serve on internal and external project teams and committees.
• Recruit, train, and direct seasonal staff.
• Participate in MSU health and safety monitoring programs.
• Actively participate in professional development opportunities.
• Support the Community, Food and Environment Institute's efforts in diversity, equity, inclusion, and Civil Rights.

Requirements

• Master's degree in ecology, plant biology, forestry, or a closely related field.
• Knowledge of Michigan's natural communities and landscape ecology.
• Experience evaluating fire-dependent ecosystems and using prescribed fire for ecological restoration.
• Understanding of Great Lakes Tribal communities and cultural practices.
• Demonstrated commitment to biodiversity conservation.
• Experience designing and conducting field-based ecological studies.
• Understanding of standard forest measurements.
• Ability to conduct strenuous fieldwork under adverse conditions.
• Ability to navigate in remote areas using compass, maps, and GPS technology.
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Good organizational and time-management abilities.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently without supervision.
• Ability to work effectively on multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in technology for record keeping and communications.
• Ability to travel locally and long distances.

Nice-to-haves

• Ph.D. in a relevant field.
• Experience engaging with Tribal communities and Indigenous knowledge.
• Experience developing and implementing monitoring protocols.
• Experience with natural community surveys and evaluations.
• Experience conducting floristic quality assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to identify plant species in the field.
• Record of obtaining extramural funding.
• Knowledge of ecological restoration and invasive species control.
• Experience with ESRI GIS software and spatial analysis.
• Analytical abilities with statistical software.
• Knowledge of NatureServe's natural heritage methodology.

Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Flexible work environment options
• Professional development opportunities