Click on Apply at the bottom of the opportunity to start your application.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is offering a post-graduate level fellowship in Southern Pines, North Carolina. This appointment will assist TNC and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to accomplish the mission of the North Carolina Sandhills Conservation Partnership. The Partnership is dedicated to the restoration and enhancement of the longleaf pine ecosystem in the NC Sandhills and supporting the missions of the partners.

What will I be doing?

As an ORISE participant, you will help to advance the wildlife and habitat conservation mission of TNC and USFWS through conservation planning and research, project management, and data analysis.

Why should I apply?

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals. Along the way, you will engage in activities and research in several areas. These include, but are not limited to:

• Implementing field surveys for a variety of wildlife and plant species, and habitats including upland depressional wetlands, blackwater streams, Sandhills seeps, and longleaf pine forests.
• Completing data entry, analysis, reporting, and presentation of results.
• Planning and facilitating Partnership meetings.
• Compiling, synthesizing, and communicating scientific or other information via oral and written presentations.
• Providing technical GIS support for the TNC, USFWS, and the Partnership.  Conducting GIS analyses to support conservation projects and update and distribute data.
• Supporting TNC Stewardship staff in land management activities, including prescribed burning, easement monitoring, assisting with volunteer workdays, and other activities as needed.
• Planning activities in collaboration with TNC Stewardship staff, including developing preserve management plans and prescribed burn maps.
• Contributing to TNC land protection projects, including environmental assessments, and baseline documentation reports.
• Attending TNC and USFWS staff meetings and retreats.

The successful applicant(s) will be required to comply with Environmental, Safety and Health (ES&H) requirements of the hosting facility, including but not limited to, COVID-19 requirements (e.g. facial covering, physical distancing, testing, vaccination).

Where will I be located?

Southern Pine, North Carolina

What is the anticipated start date?

The Nature Conservancy anticipates interviews will take place in mid-February and the appointment will begin in early March 2022. Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate.

What is the appointment length?

This appointment is a twelve month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed annually for additional research periods up to a total of 5 years. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant. 

What are the benefits?

You will receive a stipend of approximately $3,600 - $4,200 per month to be determined by The Nature Conservancy. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other benefits may include the following:

• Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE
• Relocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

About TNC

The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. Founded in the U.S. through grassroots action in 1951, The Nature Conservancy has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than a million members and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and over 400 scientists, we impact conservation in 76 countries and territories: 37 by direct conservation impact and 39 through partners.Our mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. To achieve this, we must boldly address the biodiversity and climate crises over the next decade. By maximizing our ability to affect change between now and 2030, we can shape a brighter future for people and our planet.

About ORISE

This program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.  Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.

The qualified candidate will have received a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a natural resources related degree field within the last three years. 

Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:

• Master of Science in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife management, or other relevant subject.
• Familiarity with advanced principles of GIS and experience using ArcGIS (ArcPro preferred) and field data collection applications.
• Experience with vegetation and wildlife surveys and adhering to standardized data collection protocols.
• Familiarity with the longleaf pine habitats and species, and/or ability to learn quickly. Experience studying or managing stream flows desired.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook). Proficiency in computer database management using Microsoft Access and/or willingness to learn.
• Experience with data analysis preferred.
• Excellent communication skills. Demonstrated ability to work effectively and positively with a diverse group of people.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills. Ability to set priorities and work productively without close supervision.
• Highly motivated candidate who desires to be an effective part of a team that is on the leading edge of longleaf pine conservation.
• Certified in Wildland Firefighting and Prescribed Burning (S130/190, L180, I100) and/or willingness to become certified within 6 months and pass the pack test (carrying 45 pounds for 3 miles in 45 min).
• Able to pass federal security background check (includes fingerprinting) in order to access a government issued computer.
• Possess valid driver’s license and good driving record.

• Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 36 month(s).
• Discipline(s):
  • Earth and Geosciences (4 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (9 )