Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator

Cornell University•New York, NY

2d•$72,209 - $77,625•Onsite

About The Position

The Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator provides regional and project-specific coordination, implementation, and quality assurance for invasive species management projects. The role facilitates standardized methodologies for collecting and analyzing data on pre- and post-project conditions and offers the opportunity to lead field operations, coordinate research and demonstration projects, and help protect New York State’s aquatic ecosystems. The position is based fully on-site in Cortland, New York, and is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week, one-year term Contract College position with the possibility of extension. Work is generally during standard business hours, though schedules may vary during peak field seasons. The role is associated with Cornell’s Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering and the New York State Water Resources Institute, which works with regional, state, and national partners to improve water-resource management.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant experience in aquatic biology, ecology, natural resources, environmental studies, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience in at least one area involving aquatic invasive species: fieldwork in waterbodies or wetlands, surveys, general data collection and analysis, or management.
Experience incorporating the perspectives of multiple communities.
Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to provide consistent and accurate information.
Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
Flexibility and receptiveness to new ideas and approaches.
Ability to independently identify and follow up on program objectives and organizational needs, determine tasks needed to meet project requirements and deadlines, and engage and collaborate with support staff and resources as needed, with minimal supervision.
New York State pesticide application certification in category 5a; or certification in any category and willingness to obtain category 5a within one year of hire; or at least 2 years of verifiable technician experience in any commercial category and willingness to upgrade to category 5a within one year of hire; or, for candidates with no prior pesticide application experience, willingness to become a category 5A technician upon hire and upgrade to commercial applicator within one year of hire.
Demonstrated geospatial analysis and visualization skills, such as ArcGIS, ArcPRO, or ArcGIS Online.
Experience and proficiency operating and maintaining motorboats and other mechanical equipment.
Experience preparing and analyzing reports.
Sound judgment, creativity, research, and problem-solving skills.
Willingness and demonstrated aptitude for supervising others.
Ability to meet position travel requirements, including access to reliable transportation and a valid, unrestricted New York State driver’s license.
Proven experience connecting inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing practices to business goals.
A cover letter and resume are required for consideration.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in aquatic biology, ecology, natural resources, environmental studies, or an equivalent field, with at least 2 years of relevant professional experience.
Familiarity with state and federal permitting processes, including Article 15, Article 24, and State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR).

Responsibilities

Develop and acquire permits for aquatic invasive species management actions undertaken directly within the region.
Execute the regional early detection and rapid response program, including prioritizing sites and coordinating monitoring in lake and river systems.
Use methods and technologies such as eDNA and UAS to enhance early detection capacity.
Coordinate the Cayuga Lake Hydrilla Control Project, including planning, herbicide application, and management.
Work with regional lake associations to promote the development and implementation of lake management plans and watercraft inspection steward programs.
Participate in regional, statewide, and federal collaboratives to promote information exchange throughout the watershed.
Coordinate, implement, and provide quality assurance for invasive species management projects.
Facilitate standardized methodologies for collecting and analyzing data on pre- and post-project conditions.
Lead field operations and coordinate research and demonstration projects.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options.
Generous retirement contributions.
Access to wellness programs.
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
Health and personal leave.
Three weeks of vacation.
13 holidays, including an end-of-year winter break from December 25 through January 1.
Two additional floating holidays.
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program.
Tuition aid for external education.
Cornell Children’s Tuition Assistance Program.