SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

The Ecological Health Specialist coordinates and directs the implementation of the Department’s CWD Surveillance and Management Program and assists with other CWD operations as directed. Supervises technicians and coordinates staff and equipment necessary to implement Department goals. Collaborates with ecologists, regional staff, and statewide program leaders.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in wildlife science, biological science, zoology, natural resources management, disease ecology, or closely related field required.
• Three (3) years related work experience required; 3 - 5 years desired.
• 1–3 year supervisory work experience desired.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Understanding of computers and computer software, including Microsoft Office and ArcGIS.
• Understanding of biological population dynamics, including identification of animals and diseases.
• Understanding of data and records management.
• Understanding of Geographic Information Systems.
• Understanding of process management, including maintaining internal controls and survey design.
• Budget development and implementation.
• Interpersonal communication with internal and external project stakeholders.
• Strong writing, speaking, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving skills.
• Management of financial and personnel resources.
• Operation of vehicles and power equipment.
• Operation of firearms.
• Safety functions (e.g., CPR, First Aid, etc.)

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Multi-tasking in office and outdoor environments; stamina and flexibility required periodically.
• Lifting over 50 lbs. regularly.

DISCLAIMER

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; an employee will also perform other reasonably related job responsibilities as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required. The Missouri Department of Conservation reserves the right to revise or change job duties as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. Management reserves the right to change job descriptions, job duties, functions, and requirements.

EXEMPTION STATUS/SPECIAL NOTES

This position has been determined to be Exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. Employees must agree to accept compensatory time in lieu of cash payments in accordance with the Department’s Compensatory Time Off and Overtime Policy.
Salaried and hourly employees are expected to use a mobile device-cellular phone for Department business, as needed.
MDC promotes a Tobacco-Free (smoke and smokeless) working environment.
The Department of Conservation will only hire United States citizens and aliens authorized to work in the United States. All new employees will be required to complete an “Employment Eligibility Verification” (Form I-9) and produce requested documentation after employment.
Candidates seeking initial employment or re-employment must submit to a drug screen following offer of employment.
All persons employed with the state of Missouri shall file all state income tax forms and pay all state income taxes owed

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Coordinate and direct implementation of the Department’s Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Surveillance and Management Plan in alignment with priorities set by the Disease Coordination Team.
• Assist with coordination of other CWD operations as requested by Statewide Program leaders, including the taxidermy/meat processor sampling program and Share the Harvest CWD testing program.
• Coordinate staff, plan regional trainings, and share information with stakeholders; supervise CWD technicians.
• Coordinate supply and equipment needs.
• Provide regional budgetary and spending guidance; prepare cooperative agreements and contracts for partners as needed.
• Assist with regional sick and dead wildlife response (including sick deer) by staying familiar with statewide protocols, coordinating associated regional trainings, and outlining and communicating the regional response framework for responding to wildlife events.
• Lead role the planning and execution of CWD-related communication and outreach.

ANCILLARY JOB DUTIES

• Coordinate invasive species control partnerships with agencies, NGO partners, and municipalities, including leading meetings, negotiating for matching funds or in-kind resources, developing agreements, and submitting budget requests.
• Report results of cooperative projects; ensure alignment with statewide invasive species program objectives.
• Coordinate staff and equipment for Feral Hog Eradication Program.
• Assist in coordination of other fish, forest, and wildlife health needs as requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned.