HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSIONThe Research Associate II, Community Engagement assists and delivers aspects of assigned projects and programs in specialized areas of biological and/or social science that is focused on driving conservation action through science education and community collaborations. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher on the Community Engagement team within the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.WHAT YOU WILL DO
Delivers program content to target audiences (e.g., lab and field), and assists in laboratory, field and/or classroom maintenance, upkeep and supply stock
Takes ownership of a project area, including the coordination of logistics, communication, and maintenance of resources
Maintains up-to-date and organized records, and digitally curated resources
Assists with program development and specific assigned tasks aimed to keep content current with the latest science and technological innovations used within the organization and field
Assists with grant preparation and/or reporting through gathering and compiling data
Completes professional development opportunities and/or trainings as assigned by Supervisor
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FORThe Community Engagement team in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health Department at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) seeks a full-time, benefitted Research Associate II to join the Native Biodiversity Corps (NBC) team. The NBC program brings together urban high school students from diverse cultural, ethnic, and lived experience perspectives forimmersion in nature-based, social learning experiences designed to enhance their inquiry and critical thinking skills. The Research Associate II will work alongside NBC students (and fellow SDZWA team members) as they design, implement, monitor, and maintain native wildlife gardens on campus and in communities in order to attract and support local wildlife, combat impacts of regional climate change, promote regional pride, and build more resilient communities. Ideal candidates will have experience engaging high school students with environmental education in formal and/or informal science education settings as well as knowledge of, and interest in, the native biodiversity and ecosystems of San Diego County.
JOB EXPERIENCE
1-2 years of experience with science/environmental education programming and/or community-based conservation required.
1-2 years of experience teaching, facilitating and/or training as appropriate to the target audience(s) of the program required.
Moderate understanding of inquiry-based and participatory learning theory and practice required.
Familiarity and comfort with in-person and virtual learning and training formats, required.
1-2 years of experience conducting literature reviews, designing scientific and inquiry-based studies, gathering and compiling data, required.
1-2 years of experience building technical skills related to relevant applied work settings (e.g., lab, field, etc) required.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree B.S. or B.A. in biological, environmental, conservation, education, social science or related field required.
Valid CA Driver’s License Upon Hire
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Ability to work collaboratively within and across departments
Knowledge of curriculum development and/or community-based conservation techniques/approaches
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
Able to work independently and collaboratively as a team
Awareness of one's own skills and limits and ability to seek guidance when appropriate
