Regional Watershed Specialist

Position Description

The University of Maryland College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) is a leading Land-Grant institution providing teaching, research, and Extension programs through University of Maryland Extension (UME) to a diverse clientele in the State of Maryland and beyond. UME seeks to fill a 12-month, tenure-track faculty position in watershed-based education with a particular focus on green infrastructure and nature-based solutions at individual and community landscape levels. The Regional Watershed Specialist for the Capital Cluster will work in the Anne Arundel, Charles, and Prince George’s counties of Maryland as well as statewide to provide non-formal education and technical assistance to stakeholders, including local and county governments, watershed groups, communities, and individuals. Education programming will focus on practices that improve water quality and quantity at the local level that lead to quantifiable reductions in non-point sources of pollution as well as improvement of water quantity/quality issues in the face of changing climate, increasing catastrophic weather events and intensities in a rapidly urbanizing region and state. The educator will be a member of the University of Maryland Extension’s Watershed Protection and Restoration Program (WPRP), consisting of faculty members with similar education responsibilities in other regions of the state. The educator will work closely with the Maryland Sea Grant Program (MDSG) to assist with implementing strategic Sea Grant initiatives that emphasize environmental justice and climate resiliency.

The educator aids with efforts such as implementing educational components of local watershed implementation plans (WIPs) and local Watershed Stewards Academies (WSA) and actively participating in the Watershed Assistance Collaborative (WAC). The individual will provide educational leadership on important issues and utilize scientific and traditional local ecological knowledge when relevant and appropriate.

The educator will conduct needs assessments to identify research and education program priorities of targeted audiences. The educator will be responsible for working intentionally and collaboratively to increase the visibility and reach of UME programs through educational programming designed to meet the needs of diverse audiences. The position will interpret and disseminate the latest research findings using a variety of delivery and communication strategies appropriate for intended target audiences, including, but not limited to, workshops, classes, demonstration projects, webcasts, social media, publications, mass media, and community coalitions.

The educator will be responsible for securing resources through grants, contracts, program fees, partnerships, and sponsorships to develop a robust Extension program that uses innovative teaching and learning strategies to design, develop, deliver, and evaluate programs that engages participants in a collaborative-learning environment and encourages adoption of research-based information in decision-making.

The faculty member will be on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with UMD policy and UME tenure guidelines within the timeframe defined and will perform teaching, scholarship, and service requirements of a University of Maryland faculty member. In carrying out these duties, the individual reports to the Program Leader & Assistant Director, Environmental, Natural Resources, and Sea Grant Program.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with experience: Master’s Base: $62,255; Ph.D. Base: $74,354. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.

Required Qualifications

Master of Science or equivalent in environmental or watershed science, environmental policy, ecology, environmental planning, forest management, urban forestry, natural resources/natural resource management, engineering, landscape architecture or design, or related green infrastructure scientific field.
Demonstrable experience in developing and delivering educational and Extension programs to diverse audiences in formal or informal settings using a variety of media.
Demonstrated leadership and management abilities and evidence of working with colleagues, students, agency personnel, and other clientele. Evidence of the ability to work effectively as a team member.
Evidence of scholarship in research, extension, and outreach.
Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management.
Evidence of excellent teaching and communication skills. Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Personal transportation and a valid driver’s license are required. Must be willing to travel throughout the state of Maryland. Out-of-state travel may also be required.
Flexible work schedule required for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and need.
Evidence of capacity to build UME Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect capacity through the Extension program model.
This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check and a University of Maryland Background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.

Preferred Qualifications

PhD or equivalent in environmental or watershed science, environmental policy, ecology, environmental planning, forest management, urban forestry, natural resources/natural resource management, engineering, landscape architecture or design, or related green infrastructure scientific field.
Experience in green infrastructure or natural resource management-related fields
Extension or similar work experience (e.g., work in education, university outreach). Experience working with volunteers is desirable.
Demonstrated ability in acquiring grants and private funding to enhance research and outreach programming.
Preference will be given to individuals with experience working with diverse audiences and all socioeconomic levels.

Other Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
This position frequently presents information through vocal and written communication to individuals of various ages, socio-economic, and educational backgrounds.
A routine part of this position's responsibilities would be to transport materials to and from field research areas and teaching/event locations, including loading and unloading the vehicle. The employee will frequently lift and/or move items weighing up to 20 pounds. Set up and teardown of research machinery, project displays, tables, and chairs will be necessary at many teaching sites.
This position requires the employee to work outdoors conducting field research, delivering programs, and teaching at events. This may occur during very hot and/or inclement weather.
Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data and presentations.

Application Instructions

All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/119643. A complete application packet includes a cover letter, CV, copies of transcripts, and three professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Equal Employer Statement(s)

The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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