Community Science Manager

Maine Audubon is hiring a Community Science Manager to join its dynamic team based in Falmouth, ME. Since 1843, Maine Audubon has worked to conserve Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people in education, conservation, and action. Maine Audubon has eight public centers and sanctuaries across the state, seven chapters, and more than 30,000 members, supporters, and volunteers, making it the oldest and largest Maine-based conservation organization.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Community Science Manager, to be based at our Gilsland Farm headquarters in Falmouth, Maine. 

The Community Science Manager reports to the Director of jobshiringnearme.org and will lead our community science initiatives and engage in conservation outreach. By helping collect critical data in support of wildlife conservation, community scientists are important volunteer contributors to Maine Audubon’s conservation efforts. This role will involve managing programs that engage the public in data collection, public outreach, and conservation actions, ensuring that community members are vital components of our projects. Key responsibilities include coordinating the statewide Annual Loon Count;  managing the collaborative water sampling program, Stream Explorers; and coordinating and hosting Stream Smart workshops for road professionals. In addition to these three core programs, this person will be responsible for promoting wildlife-related community science programs run by the state and other nonprofits, such as the Maine Golden Eagle Study, the Maine Amphibian and Reptile Atlas, Project FeederWatch, and LakeSmart, and initiate new projects as time allows.            

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Program Development: Design and implement community science programs that align with organizational goals and address community needs.
• Loon Count Coordination: Oversee the statewide annual loon count, including recruitment and training of volunteers (2000+), data collection, and analysis of results.
• Stream Explorers: Manage the macroinvertebrate water sampling program, coordinating with partners to lead trainings, workshops, and update Survey123 forms as needed. Engage with community and school groups. (There is potential to help expand this program to include additional sub-projects.)
• Stream Smart: Plan and host multiple spring and fall workshops across the state. Work with partners to update materials (including presentations, folders with background information, and interactive stream table), find venues, and coordinate speakers.
• Community Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with local communities, partners, stakeholders, and organizations to promote participation in science initiatives.
• Training and Support: Provide training and resources for community members to participate effectively in community science and data collection.
• Data Management: Oversee the collection, analysis, and reporting of data gathered through community science projects, ensuring data quality and integrity.
• Outreach and Communication: Work collaboratively with the Communications team to develop and execute outreach strategies to raise awareness and celebrate successes of community science efforts, through social media, newsletters, and public events.
• Evaluation and Reporting: Assess the impact of community science programs, prepare reports, and share and present findings to stakeholders and funders.
• Collaboration: Work closely with organizational partners, scientists, educators, and community leaders to ensure projects are high-quality and accessible to all.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with other members of the conservation team and other departments at Maine Audubon, and complete other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation, environmental studies, or related field.
• Proven experience in community engagement, science communication, and project management.
• Strong understanding of scientific research methods and data analysis.
• Experience with aquatic ecosystems and familiarity with macroinvertebrate sampling techniques preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Experience with outreach and education in both professional and community settings.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with partners and within a team.
• Proficiency in data management software and social media platforms.
• Facility with Microsoft Office and Google Suite programs.
• GIS experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record.
• Must be able to pass a background check.

Physical Requirements/ Working Conditions

• Ability to use a computer for long periods. There is some heavy lifting necessary at times for this position (carrying trays of bulk mail, carrying boxes of reports, carrying program supplies and equipment, etc.). The position also includes occasional travel and field work, including to lead and/or facilitate trainings and workshops.

Timing, Compensation, and Benefits

• This is a full-time, year-round position, 32-40 hours per week depending on interest and availability.
• This position offers a flexible work schedule that can be split between the office and remote work. The specific balance will depend on the tasks at hand and project timelines.
• Maine Audubon offers a full benefits package including paid health insurance, paid time off, and contribution to retirement savings.
• Pay range: $21-22/hour, depending on experience.