Wetlands Coordinator – Research Consultant III

JOB
Job Title: Wetlands Coordinator – Research Consultant IIIJob Description: Are you passionate about wetlands and seeking a dynamic opportunity to make a meaningful impact? Are you interested in interacting with everyone from scientists to legislators to the public? Look no further than the Utah Geological Survey (UGS), where we are currently seeking a Wetlands Coordinator to work in the Wetlands Section of our Groundwater and Wetlands Program. The coordinator will bridge the gap between wetland science and wetland policy, research policies and regulations implemented to protect wetlands, and help develop a blueprint for future wetland research in Utah.About Us: At UGS, we are dedicated to conducting rigorous multidisciplinary applied science projects throughout Utah. The Groundwater and Wetlands Program includes eleven hydrogeologists, four wetland ecologists, and one data scientist. Our partners include local governments, state and federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations. We are a congenial team having a range of scientific backgrounds and interests, are intellectually curious and enthusiastic, and enjoy our jobs. We provide unbiased, rigorous scientific data and interpretations that are used by local, state, and federal officials, Non-Governmental Organizations, and the Public in making informed decisions about natural resource management. We are fully engaged in providing data and analyses to help address Utah’s critical groundwater and wetlands issues. The wetland coordinator can engage in scientific research, but will also play an important bridge in bringing science to a diversity of stakeholders and communicating the connection between science and policy.Principal Duties: As the wetlands coordinator, you will: Develop a new planning document that outlines high-priority wetland needs for the State and steps towards meeting those needs (see Utah’s Wetland Program Plan), in collaboration with the UGS wetland section and wetland stakeholdersConduct grant-funded policy research to better understand existing and potential options for wetland protections in UtahInteract with and advise land managers, researchers, legislators, and the public to provide information on wetland research and policy developmentsCoordinate meetings and informal updates for Wetland Working Group, an informal group of Utah’s wetland stakeholdersSeek new funding to support additional outreach efforts or new research projectsThe Ideal Candidate: Ideal candidates will have expertise in wetland ecology or wetland policy and experience coordinating with stakeholders to share information and make decisions, as well as a broad interest in Utah’s natural resources and furthering the Utah Geological Survey’s mission to provide timely and accurate scientific information. The ideal candidate for the Wetland Coordinator position will demonstrate the following qualities: Expertise in wetland ecology or wetland policy and experience coordinating with stakeholders to share information and make decisions, as well as a broad interest in Utah’s natural resources and furthering the Utah Geological Survey’s mission to provide timely and accurate scientific information.B.S./B.A. or higher in wetlands ecology or closely related fieldUnderstanding of wetland regulation under the Clean Water Act, particularly as it relates to changing definitions of Waters of the U.S.Experience conducting stakeholder interviews or leading working groups to facilitate decision-makingExisting relationships with Utah wetland and aquatic resource specialists or the ability to develop such relationshipsStrong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, government agencies, and the public.Strong writing skills, both for technical reports and outreach material for researchers and the general publicExperience with grant writingExperience with project management, including managing budgets, assigning tasks to colleagues, and tracking progressWhy you should join our team: As part of our team, you will engage in meaningful work that addresses critical wetlands issues in Utah. Our program actively maintains communication with state and local agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the public to align our mission with state priorities.As a member of the Groundwater and Wetlands Program, you will enjoy a supportive and enthusiastic working environment where your contributions are valued. Our Program includes motivated and collegial individuals who find our work stimulating, challenging, and important. We have intentionally built a program that includes both wetland and groundwater scientists, as well as GIS Analysts and Data Scientists, leading to multidisciplinary projects and a positive and supportive work environment.As a State employee, you will benefit from a healthy work-life balance, allowing ample time for family, cultural, and outdoor activities.Below is a summary of the benefits offered to state employees: Health Insurance – Public Employee Health Program (PEHP): 3 medical plan options. Choose a Traditional or High Deductible Health Plan.There is an Opt-Out Cash Benefit option for those who have other medical insurance coverage.5 dental plan options, with an Opt-Out Cash Benefit option for those that have other dental insurance coverage.4 vision plan options under EyeMed or OptiCareRetirement – Utah Retirement Systems (URS): Employees who have any service credit with an employer covered by the Utah Retirement Systems before 7/1/2011 are in the Tier I Public Employees System.Employees hired on or after 7/1/2011 and who have never been in the URS retirement system have two options for retirement in the Tier II System.Tier 2 Hybrid Retirement System. Employer contributes an amount equal to 10% of your salary between both plans (pension and 401(k))Tier 2 Defined Contribution Plan. Employer contributes an amount equal to 10% of your salary to a 401(k) plan only. Employer contributions to your 401(k) are vested after four years.Paid Time Off: Annual and sick leave are accrued at 4 hours per pay period each (4 hours annual, 4 hours sick).Annual leave amounts increase with years of service.We have 12 paid holidays.**Please note, that a position’s eligibility for telework is established by agency management and is subject to change at their discretion at any time and for any reason.The Division Click here for more information about the Utah Geological Survey

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Working Conditions: Work will be performed in various environments including standard office conditions to working outdoors, including in remote locations.Valid driver’s license required*Typical Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am. – 5:00 pm. (40 hours/week, flexible, with longer hours on field days)*Please note, that a position’s eligibility for remote work is established by agency management and is subject to change at their discretion at any time and for any reason