Overview
The Natural Resources Specialist (NRS) is responsible for performing a variety of administrative, technical, and planning duties to identify and achieve the goals of the Tribe regarding environmental advocacy and natural resource conservation. The Specialist will work with different groups within the Tribal, Local, State, and Federal agencies to fuse Indigenous knowledge with scientific data to protect and defend the Pamunkey River, the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, and surrounding bodies of water. The Specialist will also work to provide environmental outreach and education to Tribal Citizens, the public, and requesting agencies.
Responsibilities
- Under the direction of the Natural Resources Director, works with the Chief and Council and the Tribal Community to develop short and long-term Tribal goals for environmental conservation and advocacy; gathers information and prepares studies, reports, and recommendations to achieve these goals. Prepares and maintains information regarding Indigenous knowledge of natural resources; responds to requests for Tribal input on related subjects.
- Coordinates with local, state, and Federal conservation offices/agencies, and non-governmental organizations; develops projects with Tribal partners.
- Under the direction of the Natural Resources Director, provides information to Chief and Council, Tribal Citizens, local boards, commission, civic groups, businesses, individuals, and the public, on environmental issues.
- Provides reports to evaluate the effectiveness of the Natural Resources Department.
- Fosters relationships with other Tribes to promote a cohesive presentation of Indigenous knowledge, concerns, and goals.
- Provides education for Tribal Citizens in natural resource conservation and environmental advocacy.
- Engages citizens and executes projects to enhance biodiversity and climate resilience on Tribal lands
- Attend meetings, conferences and events as designated by the Natural Resources Director.
- Works with other Tribal Staff to prepare grant proposals, applications, contracts, and other documents required for Natural Resource Department. Submits grant reports as required.
- Completes other duties as assigned and directed by the Natural Resources Director.
Knowledge and Abilities:
- Requires adaptability in working indoors in an office setting, as well as frequent outdoor work. Includes conservation project sites, conference and training facilities, and individual meetings with partner agencies and organizations.
- Ability to learn and understand the culture of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe in order to intertwine Indigenous knowledge and experience with Western science-based best management practices;
- Ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups and individuals, including members of the Tribe, public, educators, government officials, and scientists;
- Ability to prepare and analyze budgets, reports, and data
- Duties may require standing for extended periods of time, lifting objects 50 lbs. or over, and working outdoors in inclement weather.
- Can operate the necessary tools and equipment, i.e., computers, word processing, spreadsheets, software, online webinar and meeting software, and general office equipment, to accomplish office responsibilities.
- Ability to operate a vehicle to drive to and from job sites to conduct business functions and activities.
Qualifications
- Graduation from a four-year college or university, with specialization in environmental science or natural resources management;
- General knowledge of various natural resources tools and platforms, such as GNSS receivers, survey tools, landscaping tools, plant ID books and software, Microsoft Excel, R, ESRI Suite, etc.
- Experience collecting, organizing, processing, and interpreting scientific field data including but not limited to geospatial data, groundwater and water quality data, shoreline surveys, plant surveys, etc.
- Demonstrated experience in natural resources conservation and environmental regulations (Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act among others), including administrative responsibilities;
- Demonstrated knowledge of local, state and federal conservation programs, regulations, and processes;
- Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain partnerships with government agencies and non-governmental organizations.
Accommodation(s):
The position requires the ability to carry out the noted essential job duties as outlined above. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the Natural Resources Specialist.
Other Details:
Qualified persons with Indian Preference are given priority for this position. If you are claiming Indian Preference, you MUST submit documentation verifying Indian Preference. Examples of verification documentation include: 1) Certification by an authorized representative of the tribe, band or other organized group of Indians, OR 2) a tribal membership card or tribal voter registration card.
Pay: Up to $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person