Conservation Ecologist - Keller Science Action Center

Field Museum • Chicago, IL

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center translates museum science and expertise into action for conservation and quality of life. We are seeking a Conservation Ecologist to support work in the Chicago Wilderness region, where we collaborate with a wide network of partners to advance conservation on the ground in Chicago, Kankakee County, and Northwest Indiana, with the potential to extend into other areas. The successful candidate brings strong knowledge of regional conservation context and natural and human communities, a passion for collaborative interdisciplinary research and fieldwork, and taxonomic expertise in at least one focal group, and a dedication to quick and tangible results. This experienced conservation ecologist will contribute to the strategy, methods and future direction of the Chicago Program, and will work with team members to develop and implement effective, collaborative approaches oriented to decision-making for conservation and people’s well-being. This position is hired on a 3-year term with potential for renewal, is based at the Field Museum in Chicago and reports to the Sr. Director of the Keller Science Action Center. The work involves regular local field work, and 10-20% of the year devoted to regional travel. Review of candidates will begin June 8 and continue until the position is filled.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife science, or related conservation science field
• Minimum 4 years of experience in applied conservation science, including fieldwork and project implementation
• Demonstrated experience working in the Chicago region or a similar large metropolitan ecosystem where conservation occurs across an urban�natural mosaic and at corridor/landscape scales.
• Experience managing projects and competent working both independently and in a team
• Strong writing, editing and verbal communication skills: able to structure ideas clearly and to communicate them in English to a wide range of audiences
• Proficiency with digital work platforms such as MS Office and Google Workspace
• Willingness to work in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

• Receiving input from local communities to shape their research.
• Fluency in Spanish
• Experience working with diverse partners and stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Provide ecological and taxonomic expertise to Action Center conservation efforts.
• Lead initiatives within the Chicago program with an interdisciplinary team that includes ecologists, social scientists, and educators.
• Collaborate as a lead scientist in the Chicago region including planning, fieldwork, and technical reporting to establish and sustain conservation that benefits local communities.
• Manage key relationships with partners and help establish new partnerships that advance our conservation and well-being goals.
• Work closely with Action Center staff and partners to synthesize insights and outcomes across particular experiences and generate understanding to leverage results at larger landscape scales.
• Support the monitoring, evaluation, and iterative improvement of the program.
• Contribute to grant proposals, technical reports, and other materials for dissemination, including peer-reviewed publications, that support the creation or management of conservation landscapes.
• Support the creation of conservation tools and training opportunities for conservation professionals, scientists, and other stakeholders.
• Integrate ecological expertise into the development of long-term conservation strategies in collaboration with other Action Center scientists and partners, identifying and implementing opportunities to expand conservation programming and funding.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
• Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior