Marine Conservation Planning Coordinator
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, BC Chapter (CPAWS-BC) is offering an exciting opportunity in marine conservation. We are seeking an experienced, innovative and energetic professional to work with a multi-disciplinary team, focusing on the marine and coastal conservation planning component of our BC work.
CPAWS is one of Canada’s oldest and well respected conservation organizations devoted exclusively to protecting Canada's wilderness. Our vision is to keep at least half of Canada’s public lands and oceans wild – forever. CPAWS is science based, we provide constructive solutions, work collaboratively, and practice respectful advocacy.
Based in Vancouver, CPAWS- BC has been a leader in marine and coastal conservation on the Pacific coast. We play a key role in preserving the full diversity of marine habitats and species on the coast of British Columbia through comprehensive marine conservation approaches, improved cooperation among government agencies, greater community involvement in marine conservation, and ‘big picture’ thinking about the entire west coast of Canada. We strive for excellence in advocacy, education and cooperative partnerships with environmental groups, industry, governments, First Nations and others to achieve our goals.
We are currently embarked on a series of exciting projects designed to ensure marine conservation success through the Pacific North Coast Integrated Management Area (PNCIMA) planning process.
Responsibilities include:
· Provide leadership for CPAWS-BC team on active and emerging marine and coastal planning initiatives and issues in BC.
· Provide process, technical and policy expertise for CPAWS-BC on tools and approaches to effective integrated marine and coastal planning.
· Manage policy and planning projects related to climate change adaptation for the marine environment, integrated marine planning, and communications.
· Work in cooperation with WWF-Canada, Pacific Region on joint research, communications and policy projects related to climate change, integrated planning in the marine realm, marine protected areas, and socio-economic benefits of marine planning.
· Work in partnership with other ENGO partners, as well as collaboratively with First Nations, government, community, business and industry, and academic colleagues to ensure good conservation outcomes are achieved through an integrated approach to BC marine and coastal zoning that includes marine protected area networks.
· Support CPAWS-BC staff in planning, process design, and facilitation for a variety of projects related to coastal and marine resource planning, protection and management.
· Develop products and information that support quality marine conservation and planning.
· Assist National Manager, Oceans and Great Freshwater Lakes on national oceans activities that will advance initiatives in BC.
Formal qualifications, knowledge and experience: University degree in Natural Resource Management, Marine Biology, Environmental Management Public Policy or a related field, with an emphasis on conservation biology, coastal or marine planning or a closely related discipline; 3 to 5 years of successful applied work experience desired.
Skills and Abilities Required:
· Commitment to and enthusiasm for marine planning and protection and CPAWS’ style of work.
· Knowledge and understanding of integrated marine or coastal zone management processes, policy frameworks and technical design options, climate change impacts on marine systems, and marine protected areas.
· Proven ability to work effectively with a wide range of people from diverse cultural backgrounds and positions (e.g. First Nations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations and community groups) with sensitivity and appreciation for the diverse interests and values of others.
· Strong writing skills and experience with literature research and report writing.
· Strong computer skills including a proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access.
· Demonstrated project management and facilitation skills, ability to complete tasks in a timely fashion, defining goals and deliverables, tracking progress and milestones, and delivering products.
· Experience in negotiation based decision-making environments.
· Proven research and writing skills.
· Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
· Practical knowledge of BC's marine resources, coastal communities and issues is a strong asset.
Terms:
· Initially, a 10 month full-time contract with the potential to renew
· Good benefits
· Based in Vancouver
· Ability to travel, mostly to BC coastal communities.
· Starting date - early July.
Applications:
Closing Date: 23 June 2008
A resume and cover letter should be directed by e-mail to: megan@cpawsbc.org
CPAWS - British Columbia Chapter