[PCA] Position: Wetlands Ecologist with the City of Eugene

[TAYLOR Trevor H]

The City of Eugene is currently hiring for a Wetlands Ecologist position.  See below for more information about the position or go to our website at www.eugene-or.gov/jobs.  For more information about the Natural Areas Program with the City of Eugene see http://www.eugene-or.gov/portal/server.pt?open=512&objID=670&PageID=0&cached=true&mode=2&userID=2 .  Please forward this announcement to others who may be interested.

Thank you
Trevor Taylor

Natural Area Enhancement Team Supervisor
Parks and Open Space Division
Eugene, Oregon
541.682.4888
_______________________________________________________________________________
We are currently accepting applications for the position of:
 
WETLANDS ECOLOGIST

This position provides professional botanical, ecological, monitoring, and data analysis services for Wetlands Restoration program; develops and manages programs within the West Eugene Wetlands Program; leads coordinated planning efforts with professional staff from partner organizations; writes contract specifications for professional and trade services necessary to the projects; monitors projects for outcomes, ongoing maintenance needs, and long term success of habitat enhancements. 

For more information or to apply please go to: www.eugene-or.gov/jobs  

The City of Eugene values diversity in its workforce, and is committed to Affirmative Action. 
SALARY RANGE 
Salary: Depends on Qualifications  

REQUISITION #: 00498
POSITION #: 2700 

POSITION INFORMATION
Final filing date: August 24, 2007. 

Depending upon the knowledge, skills, and abilities possessed by the successful applicant, this position may be filled as either a Management Analyst 1 or Management Analyst 2

Annual Salary: 
Management Analyst 1: $45,510 - $56,700 
Management Analyst 2: $49,649 - $61,838 

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES PERFORMED - Duties may include but are not limited to the following: 
*	Provides professional expertise in botany, ecology, monitoring, and data analysis. 
*	Manages a native plant materials program for restoration projects; provides analysis and leadership to ensure availability of adequate seed/plant resources for restoration projects. 
*	Manages a quantitative and qualitative vegetation monitoring program; provides analysis of restoration vegetation data, collects and maintains extensive records of scientific data for future analysis, and tracks and evaluates projects to ensure the meeting of program objectives. 
*	Manages programs requiring complex coordination with Federal, State, and non-governmental organizations within the West Eugene Wetland Partnership. 
*	Conducts professional experimental research using broad knowledge of scientific methods including experimental design, data collection methodology, and statistical data analysis. 
*	Leads and facilitates meetings of West Eugene Wetlands Partnership staff in field or office setting. 
*	Cultivates creative ideas and values and utilizes diverse viewpoints from a broad base of stakeholders to diagnose complex issues and identify solutions. 
*	Uses GPS and GIS to document site attributes, edit data, analyze spatial data, and create maps. 
*	Writes professional reports documenting the results of research and monitoring projects to direct natural areas management including the West Eugene Wetlands Mitigation Bank Annual Report, rare plant species monitoring reports, and special topical reports. 
*	Hires and supervises seasonal employees working on vegetation monitoring and native seed collection. 
*	Assists with mitigation bank compliance and contract enforcement; provides technical information to support actions and policies. 
*	Serves as project manager for implementation of restoration and maintenance tasks. 
*	Prepares grant applications; ensures compliance with grant reporting requirements; serves as department liaison with granting agency. 
*	Writes contract specifications for professional services and trade service contracts necessary to implement work identified in enhancement plans; provides in-the-field oversight and inspection of contracted work to ensure compliance; negotiates mutually agreeable solutions to unexpected issues. 
*	Tracks projects; develops professional reports using GIS and report production expertise to document activities, project history and guide future enhancement actions on the sites. 
*	Provides guidance and consult to ensure program compliance with Federal, State, and local environmental regulations. 
*	Provides guidance and direction to seasonal technical employees and volunteers. 
*	Ensures implementation of, and adherence to, the City's Affirmative Action and Diversity Work Plans; facilitates staff and volunteer development on such issues as diversity and creating a respectful work environment. 
*	May lead tours of work project sites and activities for a diverse range of City staff, citizens, local and federal officials, and media. 
*	May make presentations to diverse audiences. 
*	Responds to citizen questions regarding wetland activities and programs. 
*	May act in capacity of supervisor in their absence. 
*	Performs other related duties as assigned. 


QUALIFICATIONS
*	Knowledge oPlant population biology, ecosystem dynamics, landscape ecology, and theoretical ecology. 
*	Vascular plant taxonomy, especially in Willamette Valley ecosystems. 
*	Monitoring techniques and tools used to evaluate plant and animal populations. 
*	Restoration ecology and natural resource management. 
*	Propagation techniques for native plants and nursery management methods; planting and seeding methods. 
*	Project management and goal setting, leading the efforts of a diverse team and ensuring follow-through. 
*	Time management for diverse activities that are under strict deadlines and must have quality results. 
*	Equipment and techniques used in restoration and enhancement projects including GIS and GPS technologies. 
*	Standards and regulations pertaining to wetland and natural area restoration and maintenance operations. 
*	Standard safety precautions and ability to identify hazards.

ABILITY TO
*	Quickly learn to identify plant and animal species in Willamette Valley ecosystems. 
*	Develop, direct, and manage monitoring program to evaluate trends in animal and plant populations; establish baseline ecosystem characteristics. 
*	Analyze data and interpret findings. 
*	Develop, direct, and manage plant materials program. 
*	Develop, direct, and manage multiple projects; cultivate creative ideas; capitalize on workgroups diverse skills and backgrounds; identify issues and potential solutions; resolve complex issues under pressure and under stringent time constraints within program area. 
*	Build strong cross-cultural relationships; be at ease with differences. 
*	Build strong relationships with those contacted in the course of work including City staff, outside agencies, research scientists, citizens, elected officials, and partner organizations. 
*	Model trust, openness, fairness, and respect for all individuals in daily interactions. 
*	Communicate complex information clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing to contractors, field crews, and the public; prepare and conduct oral presentations. 
*	Identify, write, and manage grants; ensure compliance; serve as liaison to granting agency. 
*	Prepare and administer project budgets and cost estimates. 
*	Work outside under varying weather conditions. 


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Management Analyst 1 & 2 
Education 
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Biology, Ecology, Botany, Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, or a related field(s). 

License or Certificate 
A valid Oregon driver's license or, the ability to obtain by date of hire; must pass driving records check and, if hired, maintain a driving record that meets the City's standard. Oregon law requires that an out-of-state license holder must obtain a valid Oregon license (with appropriate endorsements) within 30 days of becoming domiciled in the state (ORS 803.355). 

Management Analyst 1 
Experience 
Some recent, related professional experience in Natural Resource Management, Field Ecology, Botany, Habitat Enhancement, or related field(s). 

Management Analyst 2 
Experience 
Two years of professional experience in Natural Resource Management, Field Ecology, Botany, Habitat Enhancement, or related field(s). Experience in project and contract management preferred. 


Supplemental Information
In addition to the salary listed above, upon eligibility, the City will contribute the employee contribution of 6% and the employer contribution to a retirement program administered by the Oregon Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). Additionally, for non-represented employees who defer a minimum of 3% of their base salary into the City's deferred compensation plan, the City will reimburse them 2% of their salary through a Deferred Compensation Benefit added to salary. 


Selection Process
Applicants are screened based upon their relevant knowledge, abilities, skills, experience, and training. The selection process varies according to the position and can include such things as screening of supplemental questionnaires, written or skill tests, ability or fitness tests, interviews, and assessment processes. In addition, background investigations and records checks may be required. Some positions also require applicants to have a psychological evaluation and/or physical examination and a drug test prior to employment. Applicants selected to continue in the process will be notified within two-three weeks after the posting deadline. Due to the volume of applications received by the City, generally, only applicants selected for further consideration (testing, interviews) will be contacted. Anyone requesting information on a selection process may contact Human Resources (541) 682-5061 or may check the status on the Employment Opportunities Website at www.eugene-or.gov/jobs. 

The City of Eugene complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any applicant with a qualified disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request accommodation by contacting an employment coordinator at (541) 682-5061. 

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Eugene will request all eligible candidates who accept employment with the City to provide documentation to prove they are eligible for employment in the United States. 

Alternative forms of job postings are available. Call (541) 682-5061, TTY (541) 682-5674. 

The City of Eugene is committed to a work environment which values the cultural, educational, and life experiences of each employee. We believe that a diverse workforce enables us to deliver culturally competent service to all members of our community. As part of our commitment to diversity, the City continues to be an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Women, people with disabilities, and persons of color are strongly encouraged to apply.  
City of Eugene, Human Resource & Risk Services * 777 Pearl Street, Room 101 * Eugene * OR * 97401 * (541) 682-5061 * http://agency.governmentjobs.com/eugene/default.cfm 
00498 


Wetlands Ecologist Supplemental Questionnaire 
In addition to the City of Eugene standard application materials please provide answers to the following supplemental questions.  The supplemental questionnaire is scored and will be used to determine if you will proceed to the next phase of the selection process. Provide detailed answers to each question. Please do not reference your résumé or application in your responses. 

* 1. Please provide examples of your experience with: a. Vegetation sampling techniques and experimental design. b. Using descriptive, univariate, and multivariate statistical techniques to analyze quantitative vegetation data. c. Using GPS and GIS hardware and software to collect, edit, and analyze natural resource data; make maps. d. Vascular plant and animal taxonomy, especially as it relates to Willamette Valley plant communities. e. Native seed collection and grow-out of native plant species for seed production. 

* 2. What do you believe are the key elements of successful, collaborative partnerships? Have you been involved in projects where formal, or informal, partnerships among different groups were required? If so, please describe how the partnership functioned and what your role was. 
 
* 3. Please provide a detailed example of a habitat enhancement project you have worked on. Include the project goals, objectives, and scope as well as your role and responsibilities. Please provide examples of background materials you were responsible for producing including any maps, planting lists, permits, and reports. 
 
* 4. Please describe the key elements of a successful program manager, how you utilized these key elements in programs you managed, and provide examples of any programs you have managed. Include program goals, objectives, and your level of responsibility for implementation and progress. Indicate whether your experience included supervision of contractors, staff, or volunteers if applicable and please emphasize natural resource related programs, if possible. 

* 5. Your response to the following question is confidential and is only used to track your application in our system. Hiring decisions are not based on this response. Please state your month and day of birth.