WESTERN REGION - ALASKA

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU), the world’s leading wetland and waterfowl conservation organization, is seeking a self-motivated individual with proven leadership and research skills to lead its new Alaska Conservation Initiative. The successful applicant will work with public agencies, private industry, Native Corporations, Universities and other DU staff to help build a strong waterfowl and wetlands research program that ensures good conservation outcomes for both wetland dependent wildlife and for people. Doing so will require working closely with Alaska’s DU volunteers. The position will also be responsible for managing non-research related conservation projects in the state. Managing project budgets and supervising staff and consultants will also be required. The preferred location for this position is home or a shared office space in the vicinity of Anchorage. However, a remote location may be considered dependent upon the selected candidate. Some extensive travel throughout the state and to the lower 48 will be required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Interested candidates must have 10+ years of experience with a conservation agency or organization and a Ph.D in a conservation related field. A background in avian biology and wetland ecology specific to Alaska are highly desirable. Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as inter-personal skills, are required. Proven grant writing and publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals is also required, as is a track record in successful partnership building. Experience working with public agencies, landowners, and private sector donors is beneficial. A background and passion for wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation is preferred, as is the ability to work in remote field locations when needed.

• Become part of DU’s Western Region Conservation Planning & Science team.
• Cultivate relationships with other government, academic, and non-profit scientists to foster partnership networks that generate collaborative scientific products.
• Work with state and federal agencies in Alaska to maintain traditional waterfowl survey and banding programs that are important to the regulatory process.
• Partner engagement and data sharing through participation in relevant committees and conservation groups, presentations at professional conferences, development of technical reports, and publication of peer-reviewed articles.
• Supervise graduate students if necessary.
• Manage all of DU’s non research related conservation efforts in Alaska (e.g. improvements to state wildlife areas that are important to Alaska waterfowl hunters).
• Be part of a fundraising team that includes DU Conservation, Development, and Grassroots fundraising staff.
• Attend professional meetings in DU’s western region and in other locations in the U.S. to represent DU.
• Work cooperatively with DU’s communication team to regularly produce outreach and marketing materials for Alaska.