Education and Citizen Science, Manager - Hiring Now

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

Position Summary:

Conservation International (CI) Aotearoa is looking for a passionate and experienced Education & Citizen Science Manager to lead development of our environmental education and marine citizen science initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in designing and facilitating experiential environmental education initiatives that engage and inspire diverse audiences. They will develop and manage our marine citizen science program (coastal and offshore), including facilitating trainings and ensuring relevant high-quality data collection, while effectively communicating findings to drive meaningful conservation outcomes. 

The successful applicant will foster strategic partnerships, support fundraising, and oversee the implementation of education and science action plans. They will possess a strong background in environmental education, marine science, or conservation, with exceptional project management and communication skills. They thrive in a dynamic environment, delivering results independently and collaboratively. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on marine conservation efforts in New Zealand and the Pacific region. If you are a self-motivated, adaptable individual with a strong work ethic and a passion for environmental education and conservation, we encourage you to apply.

Position Responsibilities:

Education & Citizen Science Management and Planning

• Develop, implement, and evaluate inclusive experiential environmental education programming for diverse audiences. 
• Develop, manage and expand marine citizen science programs, ensuring high data quality and alignment with research and management objectives.
• Recruit, train, and support citizen science volunteers and groups to contribute meaningfully to research efforts
• Analyze and communicate citizen science data to stakeholders to inform decision-making and conservation outcomes
• Develop strategic partnerships to expand the reach, impact, and sustainability of programs
• Secure funding through grant writing, fundraising, and revenue-generating activities
• Develop and monitor technical education and science action plans aligned with conservation outcomes
• Coordinate and manage technical functions, activities, and projects to ensure timely delivery
• Provide regular reports and assessments on progress, refining action plans as needed
• Serve as a trusted technical resource to CI and partner staff

Capacity Building and Partner Management

• Share technical best practices within and outside CI
• Identify and enlist external partners to achieve conservation priorities
• Support development and management of partner work, ensuring they have the necessary information and frameworks
• Promote and strengthen capacity-building programs and collaboration initiatives

Fundraising

• Cultivate donor relationships and support senior staff in fundraising efforts
• Pro-actively seek funding opportunities and assist in developing proposals and budgets
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Extended work hours may be required.
• Frequent travel of more than 20% may be necessary including travel to remote locations.
• May need to work out of doors in adverse weather conditions.
• Fixed-term contract – 2 years

Education, experience, skills, and abilities: 

• Master's degree in environmental education, marine science, conservation, or a related field 
• 4- 6 years' work experience in managing conservation or research programs or initiatives or the equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Proven track record of designing and delivering engaging, impactful educational programs for diverse audiences
• Demonstrated success in managing and growing citizen science initiatives, particularly in the marine realm
• Experience formulating strategy to achieve goals, developing and implementing plans, and reporting on progress.
• Experience in developing and maintaining partnerships with various stakeholders, including educational institutions, civil society organizations, and donors
• Proven ability to secure funding through grant writing, fundraising, and other revenue-generating activities
• Strong understanding of environmental education principles, practices, and trends
• In-depth knowledge of citizen science best practices, data management, and quality assurance/control procedures
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to plan, execute, and evaluate complex programs and initiatives
• Exceptional oral, written and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences. Strong attention to detail and time management skills. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze and interpret complex data and information
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools, as well as standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Suite etc)
• Familiarity with relevant scientific protocols and research methodologies
• Proven ability to work in a team environment and work well across cultures and within and across organizations.
• Fluency in English required.

Preferred:

• Passionate, self-motivated, adaptable, and strong work ethic; thrives independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment while delivering high-quality results.
• Proven experience in community outreach and engagement in environmental education and conservation, familiarity with regional marine conservation issues, proficiency in relevant foreign languages
• Advanced degree or graduate studies preferred

To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter.

Application Deadline: June 7, 2024 (6:00 PM)

Conservation International is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility-committed employer. We are proud to have a diverse, global workforce where employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, position requirements, business needs, market conditions, merit, and other legitimate nondiscriminatory factors.