Current Openings

Invasive Species Program Coordinator

Apply Here

Position Summary

The CAKE-CISMA is an active coalition of organizations and agencies working to efficiently and effectively manage the threat of invasive species in a four county region in Northwest Michigan. The Program Coordinator will be in a leadership position, coordinating a steering committee and local conservation partners, managing seasonal staff, and providing oversight and support for all CISMA projects. The Coordinator will be responsible for expanding partnerships throughout the region and ensuring all projects are successfully implemented. An ability to learn, lead, and work independently is necessary.

Compensation

$33,280 - $43,680 with benefits.

Position Start Date

Aug 23, 2021

Last Date to Apply by 5 PM EST

Jul 30, 2021

Work Location

The program coordinator is an employee of CAKE CISMA’s fiduciary, Antrim Conservation District - 4820 Stover Road, Bellaire, MI. Frequent work across the Charlevoix, Antrim, Kalkaska, and Emmet county service region.

Position Responsibilities

Administer all grants received for the work of the CISMA and work closely with the grant fiduciary in managing budgets and providing timely reporting to the grantors and the CAKE-CISMA steering committee.
Expand a public/private partnership covering the 4-county area to work on invasive species issues, including identification of high-priority species and efforts. The expanded partnership will include watershed councils, lake associations, MI Department of Natural Resources, US Forest Service, Road Commissions, Conservation Districts, County, Tribal and Township governments, and all other interested parties.
Data management, including coordinating GIS/GPS data collection, validation, storage and transfer of observations inventory to Midwest Invasive Species Identification Network and granting agencies. Ensure invasive species treatment is conducted according to best management practices, following the MDNR and MISIN best practices for data collection, and MDARD requirements for herbicide use.
Work with CAKE partners to develop a volunteer base to manage and track invasive species in the area, to ensure volunteers are properly trained in identification, inventory, reporting, safety and treatment protocol in invasive species management.
Network with other CISMAs, cooperatives, and organizations to increase knowledge, skills and abilities in working with partners and promoting invasive species management.
Coordinate with the Steering Committee and CISMA partners to provide effective outreach and education programs for landowners and other stakeholders in the four county region. Present CISMA information to individuals and groups.
The Coordinator will be responsible for the successful implementation of grants and initiatives of the CISMA with assistance from partners, other CISMAs, Michigan Invasive Species Coalition (MISC), etc. as needed.
Manage bids, contracts, and permits.
Identify and take a lead role in writing grants for future funding to mitigate the threat of invasive species to the region.
Hire and manage seasonal work crew.
Off season work can be completed via telework.

Personal Competencies:

Experience with invasive species policies, management, and planning across multiple government agencies and interest groups.
Proficiency in software programs needed to develop outreach and educational materials, routine reports for grants and steering committee, social media and communication with partners.
Knowledge of Great Lakes flora, fauna and comfort both in the field and in an office setting.
Familiarity with administration of state, federal, and community grants, and permitting.
Exercise independent judgement, discretion, and decision making on behalf of the CISMA
Excellent communication, organizational and coordination skills. Must be a self-starter and be able to work independently.

Education and Experience:

A bachelor’s degree in a related field; master’s preferred
Proficiency in GIS/GPS for inventory, reporting and treatment of invasive species.
A minimum of 3 years’ experience in conservation, non-profit management, volunteer coordination, or similar setting. Graduate education can be substituted

To Apply

Please complete the application form with your resume and cover letter. If you have any specific questions, please email Wendy Warren at wendy.warren@macd.org.

This project is funded by the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program (www.michigan.gov/invasives).

The CAKE CISMA and its fiduciary Antrim Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, or other non-merit factor. We encourage women, BIPOC, and candidates from all under-represented groups in conservation to apply.