Research & Conservation Coordinator

The Wetlands Institute is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time position in our Research and Conservation Department. The Wetlands Institute is a non-profit organization located in Stone Harbor, NJ on the Cape May Peninsula of southern New Jersey. Situated on more than 14,000 acres of coastal salt marsh, tidal creeks and estuaries, and in close proximity to Atlantic coast barrier islands and Delaware Bay beaches, The Wetlands Institute promotes research, conservation, and education through field studies, community-engagement projects, early career training, and education programs.

The Research and Conservation Coordinator will work closely with Institute staff to assist projects related to our core research and conservation programs, with focus on diamondback terrapins, horseshoe crabs, coastal birds, and coastal and wetland ecosystem dynamics and restoration. This position offers the opportunity to gain broad experience in applied research and conservation, mentor students in the field, and contribute to growing research and conservation programs.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Assist the Director of Research and Conservation in coordinating schedules, logistics, and activities that support departmental projects
• Recruit, train, and supervise summer interns for the Coastal Conservation Research Program
• Participate in core research and conservation programs and outreach activities
• Contribute to data management, quality control, and analysis for departmental projects

Additional responsibilities include:

• Mentor students in the development, completion, and presentation of research projects
• Assist with diamondback terrapin surveys and husbandry, injured animal intake, horseshoe crab surveys, and other projects
• Coordinate, schedule, and train volunteers
• Maintain regular communication with staff, partners, and volunteers
• Perform various administrative and maintenance duties required for Department operations, including permitting, maintenance of equipment, supplies, and facilities to ensure proper and safe operations
• Document project activities through photographs, video, and articles

Required qualifications for the position include:

• M.S. in biology, ecology, conservation biology or related field, or a B.S. with minimum 3 years of related experience
• An enthusiasm and strong desire to provide a positive and engaging learning experience for students and volunteers
• Direct experience conducting field research and teaching or mentoring
• Strong organizational and project management skills; attention to detail
• Broad knowledge of coastal and wetland habitats and wildlife
• Proficiency in data management and statistical analysis/programs
• Boat operation and trailering experience is preferred but not required; duties will include work on small motorized vessels

The duties of the position require work in the office and outdoors; safe operation of and/or work on boats and kayaks; lifting and carrying heavy equipment over various terrain (mud, sand, creeks, etc.); handling wildlife and injured animals. Applicants should be willing to tolerate exposure to variable and sometimes adverse weather and environmental conditions (wind, heat, cold, mud, rain, biting insects, poison ivy). The schedule will include early morning, night, and holiday hours during some months of the year, and may include a seasonally shifted work week that includes weekends.

Applicants should be available to start the position by February 2025. A valid driver’s license and personal transportation is required. Final candidate will be subject to a background check.

Salary is commensurate with experience. We provide a competitive employment package, which includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, matching contributions to a 403b retirement plan, and a generous paid vacation and paid-time-off policy.

To apply, please submit: 1) cover letter detailing interest, qualifications, and availability for position, 2) CV, 3) contact information for three professional references to Lisa Ferguson, Director of Research and Conservation: lferguson@wetlandsinstitute.org. Please include “Research and Conservation Coordinator” in the subject line. Application deadline is December 15, 2024.