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The Nature Conservancy

Forest Spatial Scientist

The Nature Conservancy, Missoula, Montana, us, 59812

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Overview The Forest Spatial Scientist will work on a large collaborative research project with the US Forest Service. The position will be embedded at a Forest Service Duty or Research Station in the contiguous United States. Preference will be given to candidates who can work in Missoula, MT. We are looking for ecologists to conduct geospatial analyses related to wildfire behavior and wildfire risk reduction treatments. The Forest Spatial Scientist's work will include significant spatial analyses using the Forest Fire Simulation (FSim) wildfire risk model. Prior experience with FSim is appreciated but not required. A demonstrated ability to process large geospatial datasets and conduct large-scale spatial analyses using tools such as R and/or Python is required.

This grant-funded position is term-limited and is scheduled to end in June of 2027.

Position Details The Nature Conservancy is operating with the support of a grant for this role. The role is expected to conclude in June 2027.

Responsibilities

Conduct geospatial analyses related to wildfire behavior, management, and impacts.

Perform large-scale spatial analyses using tools such as R and/or Python and the Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) and FSim models where applicable.

Process large geospatial datasets and synthesize findings for reporting and decision making.

Communicate scientific information clearly in written, spoken, and graphical forms and prepare reports of findings.

Collaborate with interdisciplinary, distributed research teams and cross-functional partners.

Qualifications

Master's Degree in a science-related field and 2 years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience (e.g., candidates just finishing their PhD).

Experience on interdisciplinary, distributed research teams.

Experience synthesizing, interpreting, and communicating scientific information.

Experience preparing reports of findings.

Record of peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to conduct large-scale spatial analyses in ArcGIS Pro, R, Google Earth Engine, the Forest Vegetation Simulator, and/or Python.

Expertise in parallel processing of spatial analyses in the cloud.

Remote sensing expertise.

Experience using Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) models or derived products and models.

Experience using Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) forest plot data.

Ecological expertise in forests and wildfires.

Knowledge of fuel treatment prescriptions and effects on fire behavior.

Knowledge of spatial statistics.

Experience working with a wide range of people and cross-functional teams; strong written and verbal communication skills.

Knowledge of spatial statistics.

Salary Information The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $67,500 - $100,000. This range applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Final pay will be based on factors including location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Countries outside the USA may have a different pay range in local currency. Your geographic location will be confirmed during recruitment.

Who We Are The Nature Conservancy's mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We are committed to an inclusive work environment and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

What We Bring Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. We offer a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, and more. We strive to provide a flexible work environment that supports the health and well-being of our staff.

Our recruiting process uses a rolling interview timeline. Applications may be reviewed as they are received, and the role may be unposted once a strong candidate pool is identified. Timelines may vary; we encourage applying as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We value diverse perspectives and are committed to equal employment opportunity. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures to apply.

The successful applicant must meet The Nature Conservancy’s background screening requirements. For accommodations due to disability, please email applyhelp@tnc.org with the subject line “Request for Accommodation.”

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