Hydrological Modeler

Located in Southwest Florida, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of coastal habitats and aquatic resources on Sanibel and Captiva islands and in the surrounding watershed. We are also committed to a diverse workplace and strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in environmental sciences.

SCCF is searching for a hydrological modeler who will use mechanistic and empirical models to synthesize environmental data and evaluate the effects of Everglades Restoration projects, Army Corps of Engineers water management operations, impacts of regional and local development, sea level rise, and other drivers on the hydrologic, water quality, and ecological integrity of Southwest Florida’s watersheds, including but not limited to the Caloosahatchee and Lake Okeechobee. The data and products produced will be integral in generating policy solutions and/or evaluating government reports/analyses. The modeler will interpret available data/science to create, inform, and advance environmental policy in Southwest Florida through rigorous scientific standards. This position will report to SCCF’s Director of Environmental Policy and will collaborate across the entire institution and with regional/state partners.

 

Job Duties

70% of job duties

1.     In collaboration with SCCF and partnering organizations, identify, undertake, and interpret projects and studies relevant to Southwest Florida watersheds (land use, coastal issues, etc.).

2.     Identify and develop scientific evidence positions and strategies to analyze rulemaking, legislation, growth management, and legal actions as it concerns Southwest Florida. 

3.     Evaluate and assess NGO, public agency, or private sector reports, papers, data interpretations or presentations using established scientific principles.

4.     Attend public meetings to engage in, present, and communicate science to decision makers and the public:

a.     Development of effective outreach methods for presenting technical information and policy issues including diagrams and data visualizations.

5.     Design & produce scientific reports and memos for senior staff, for public consumption, and for elected officials/policy makers.

6.     Analyze, in consultation with SCCF and partnering organizations, growth management proposed changes to codes, ordinances, rules, comprehensive land use plans, and other legislation which may have an impact on nature in SWFL by providing theoretical scenarios and models to improve understanding of proposed changes.

7.     Develop models to improve the mechanistic understanding of harmful algal blooms in estuaries and nearshore Gulf of Mexico.

8.     Analyze monitoring data collected by the SCCF Marine Laboratory and government agencies

30% of job duties

9.     Develop/design, maintain, and obtain external funding for research projects pertaining to Florida waters, either independently or in collaboration with SCCF Marine Laboratory and partners.

10.  Publish peer-reviewed science in appropriate journals.

11.  Present findings at local and national scientific conferences

Qualifications

·       Master’s degree required, Ph.D. preferred, in Hydrology, Environmental Engineering, Coastal Engineering, Biological Engineering, or closely related field.

·       A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience modeling ecological/environmental data.

·       Successful grant writing and publication record strongly preferred.

·       Public speaking is a must—to general and expert audiences. Successful applicant must be very comfortable in front of audiences and media when appropriate.

·       Evidence of commitment to environmental conservation.

·       Knowledge of Florida’s complex water systems strongly preferred.

·       Team player, always willing to pitch in to get projects done.

·       Commitment to producing policy-relevant science in support of SWFL environmental management challenges.

 

Salary & Benefits

SCCF offers competitive salaries, health/dental insurance, 401k match, and generous vacation/sick leave.

This position has been filled. Would you like to see our other open positions?