Connecticut Invasive Species Outreach Specialist (Research Assistant 1)

JOB SUMMARY

The Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (PSLA) in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) at the University of Connecticut (UConn) invites applications for a Connecticut Invasive Species Outreach Specialist (Research Assistant 1) position to aid early detection efforts, conduct outreach, and support state-wide efforts to mitigate invasive species. The ideal candidate will be someone with the ability to conduct in-person outreach education and contribute to the development of technical research reports and fact sheets related to both aquatic invasive species and terrestrial invasive plant species.

The purpose of this position is to support the “Connecticut Aquatic Invasive Species Cooperative” project between the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and UConn’s PSLA. The project’s function will be to establish and implement actions that will result in prevention, early detection and monitoring, rapid response, management, and education and awareness of aquatic invasive species. Responsibilities related to invasive species are to be commensurate with the focus of the funding (e.g. aquatic versus terrestrial).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The selected candidate will be responsible for coordinating and/or participating in statewide outreach efforts related to the prevention, mitigation, and management of invasive species. Core functions will be to provide scientific communication, outreach, and training to the public to support the missions and research by organizations in Connecticut including the Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group, the CT Invasive Plants Council, and CT DEEP. Responsibilities broadly include but are not limited to the following:

• In-person outreach and early detection activities:

• • Conduct up to ten site visits per year to identify, assess, and document aquatic invasive species in areas of high risk, with an emphasis on early detection of invasive species.
  • Support training events and tasks related to invasive species mitigation and management, such as educational outreach events on hydrilla and water chestnut in CT rivers, phragmites in wetlands, and other events with invasive species concerns.
  • Coordinate and conduct outreach and educational workshops related to the management of invasive species, including aquatic and terrestrial systems for relevant stakeholder groups.

• Communication and written materials:

• • Write and or contribute to the development of fact sheets and technical reports related to invasive species and coordinate distribution to the public via email, websites, and social media platforms, and respond to public inquiries.
  • Maintain an up-to-date list of early detection species and develop/distribute materials to increase awareness of Early Detection efforts.
  • Review literature and aquatic invasive plant lists from other states and make recommendations.
  • Provide the latest information on aquatic invasive species laws, identification, and reporting information to relevant groups.
  • Develop written communication on species of interest with guidance from appropriate sources within CT DEEP, CT DoAg, CAES, and CAHNR.
  • Proactively consult with research scientists and state officials to support the development of rapid response plans when new invaders are discovered.
  • Contribute to a plan to survey CT pet shops for invasive aquatic plants and animals.

• Support services to broader invasive species working groups:

• • Serve as a representative for the Northeast Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel.
  • Support IPC efforts by preparing agendas, sending meeting notices, taking minutes and distributing, and compiling the annual report.
  • Support communication related to DEEP’s invasive species related grant programs and efforts, as relevant.
  • Review the DEEP invasive species policy to identify outdated or missing information and make recommendations to DEEP for revisions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• B.S. degree that includes coursework in botany, ecology, identification of plants, insects, or animals, or related topics.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Working knowledge of computer hardware and commonly used software, including Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• A valid driver’s license and own transportation are required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Experience in public outreach in workshops, presentations, or other formats.
• Proven ability to work with and coordinate groups or volunteers.
• General knowledge about invasive plant issues, including control techniques.
• Experience writing grant proposals, grant reports, or other technical documents.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, 12-month, end-dated position with the possibility of renewal subject to performance and funding. This position is located at the New London Extension Center. The anticipated start date is October 2023. The University offers a competitive salary and outstanding benefits including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment.  For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check. This position may require some travel on evenings or weekends.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #497640 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references (including title, organization/company, phone, and e-mail). Evaluation of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For more information, please contact Dr. Sydney Everhart at everhart@uconn.edu or the chair of the search committee, Victoria Wallace at victoria.wallace@uconn.edu

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics, which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce.  The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner.  This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all.  We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.