Overview
The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) is seeking a highly motivated individual to manage and support nonpoint source pollution projects under the GLC’s Water Quality and Ecosystem Health program. The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) has a longstanding history of working with federal, state and local partners across the binational Great Lakes region to address nonpoint sources of water pollution in both urban and rural settings. Current efforts focus primarily on rural and agricultural settings. Therefore, a chief aim of the program is to reduce water quality pollution from agricultural and other rural nonpoint sources while enhancing sustainable agricultural activities in the Great Lakes region. However, addressing all sources of pollution into the Great Lakes is a longstanding priority of the GLC and the nonpoint source project manager will assist in all aspects of the GLC’s water quality program.
Responsibilities
The nonpoint water quality project manager will manage and assist a team of staff and outside partners in coordinating and carrying out projects and initiatives that address nonpoint source water pollution with a focus on nonpoint rural and agricultural pollution. Responsibilities associated with managing and assisting with managing projects includes: developing project proposals; building teams and networks to support the GLC’s work; developing and executing project workplans; undertaking work to support individual projects; overseeing and guiding other team members (internal staff and external partners) to ensure quality and timely performance of project work; managing contracts, partnership agreements, and sub-contracts; and reporting in accordance with funding requirements. Current GLC nonpoint projects and programs include: the Lower Fox River Phosphorus Trading Program (Fox P Trade), the Demonstration Farms Network, the Harmful Algal Blooms Collaboratory, and the Great Lakes Sediment and Nutrient Reduction Program, among others
Specific Duties
In fulfilling responsibilities outlined above, the nonpoint project manager will likely undertake the following duties.
- Coordinate and facilitate engagement among multiple partners and stakeholders (e.g., plan and organize conference calls and meetings; summarize and report out on discussions; ensure appropriate follow up by project partners);
- Conduct outreach on project progress and milestones using print, web and social media
- Manage and assist with management of grants, including associated budget development, tracking and reporting
- Prepare detailed articles, memos and papers on non point source issues, from technical, programmatic and policy standpoints
- Promote communication, coordination, partnerships and technology and knowledge transfer among federal, state, and local partners in the public and private sectors
- Work collaboratively with (and in some cases manage) Commission staff and other partners to develop new projects that advance solutions for non point source pollution from agriculture and other sectors
- Stay abreast of science, tools and techniques to support the GLC’s nonpoint source program
- Seek opportunities to enhance the GLC’s nonpoint source work so as to improve water quality and overall sustainability of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River basin.
Skills and Experience
A master’s degree in natural resources management, biology, ecology, environmental science or policy, or a related field plus, and at least four years of experience is preferred. An undergraduate degree plus considerable relevant years experience is also acceptable. Additionally, this position requires the following (items in italics are desired but not required).
- Experience managing projects, project teams, and working with multiple stakeholders; webinar and listserv management skills a plus
- Demonstrated knowledge of science and management of non point source pollution, specifically agricultural nonpoint source pollution; familiarity with agricultural production practices, farming equipment and/or agricultural business operations a plus
- Demonstrated ability to perform qualitative and some quantitative analysis
- Basic knowledge of nutrient (i.e., phosphorus) and sediment pollution quantification/ load reduction models; experience running models a plus
- Excellent writing skills; ability to translate complex information into easily understood information
- Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal articulation and acuity
- Demonstrated experience managing budgets; federal grant and contract experience a plus
- Excellent organizational and time managements skills with the ability to effectively manage multiple projects and deadlines
- Experience using multiple communications platforms (print, media, web) to convey work and accomplishments
- Proficiency with the MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook); advanced use of Excel a plus
- Familiarity with federal nonpoint programs, including USDA programs, and NRCS programs in particular; familiarity with the U.S. Farm Bill a plus; experience working with NRCS, farmers, and/or with county conservation districts plus
- Understanding of the U.S. Clean Water Act and associated policies and regulations to address nonpoint source issues (specific experience with water quality trading, environmental or other markets, or TMDLS a plus)
Travel Requirements
Periodic travel will be required, generally within the Great Lakes basin, approximately 3-6 times per year. Most travel will require a 1 or 2 overnight stay.
Personal Attributes
- confident, self-motivated, and energetic
- systems thinker who can also grasp nuance, quickly process technical information, and readily assimilate that into broader objectives and concepts
- team player interested in working collaboratively with other staff and project partners
- high level of maturity and is able to motivate and effectively interact with a variety of personalities
- passionate about improving environmental conditions; and will feel rewarded by being part of an organization whose mission is to improve the Great Lakes ecosystem
Application Process
The requirements for this application include a cover letter, resume and salary history. All of these items must be provided if applicant is to receive consideration. The application deadline is October 16, 2016. Please address your application and submit by e-mail to the following address:
Great Lakes Commission
ATTN: Nonpoint Source Project Manager Posting
2805 S. Industrial Hwy., Suite 100
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-6791
E-mail: vacancy@glc.org -Subject Line: Nonpoint Manager
No phone calls, please.
