The Coordinator of Training, Species Conservation contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society ("CZS") by developing and implementing a program of training and user support for the software tools of the Species Conservation Toolkit Initiative ("SCTI"), a partnership to ensure that the new innovations and tools needed for species risk assessment, evaluating conservation actions, and managing populations are developed, globally available, and used effectively. This position works with conservation scientists of the SCTI to develop and implement a program to build the capacity of conservation scientists, natural resource managers, and students to use the software tools effectively to further species conservation. This position develops innovative training and support methods, works with content experts, and manages logistics and budgets for training programs.

The successful candidate:

• W orks with the Senior Conservation Scientist at CZS and the co-managers of the SCTI at partner organizations to develop an innovative and effective program of training and support for computer modeling tools used in conservation assessments and planning for wildlife populations in the wild and in captivity.
• Develops and coordinates training workshops, training materials, on-line modules, and other mechanisms as appropriate to build global capacity in the SCTI tools. Collaborates when needed with other Conservation, Education and Training staff members. Assists with the selection and supervision of contracting of co-facilitators and instructors. Duties would primarily be to coordinate training rather than to be the lead teacher or content expert.
• Identifies user support needs related to existing software tools and any new tools that will be developed and distributed by the SCTI. Coordinates technical support for conservation professionals and graduate students using modeling methods and tools.
• Develops and manages content for the SCTI website, ensuring that it is an engaging and effective platform for dissemination and support of species conservation tools. Collaborates with the Manager, Social Media regarding updates to the overall website and to ensure website is accessible and in compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
• Provides written and oral presentations on the training programs of the SCTI; actively markets the SCTI training programs to prospective students.
• Assists in developing the program's annual budget; assists with developing a fee structure and sponsorship program for training; writes proposals to obtain support for the training programs.
• Completes other duties as assigned.
  

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements include:

• Master's degree in biology, environmental education, or related field, or a Bachelor's degree plus at least two years work experience developing training programs for advanced students or professionals.
• One year experience in work related to species conservation or wildlife management programs.
• Excellent verbal and writing communication skills, including proven ability in writing reports for professional journals, grant proposal preparation, and oral presentations.
• Good computer skills, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Must have a demonstrated ability to work independently and prioritize tasks as necessary.
• Must have ability to work collaboratively with CZS staff and SCTI partners.
• Excellent organization, follow-through, and time management skills.
• Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• A valid driver's license is required on date of hire. If an Illinois resident, must possess a valid Illinois driver's license at the time of hire or must obtain one within 90 days of hire. A valid out-of-state driver's license is required at time of hire for out-of-state residents.

The desirable qualifications include:

• Broad interest in diverse aspects of conservation biology and conservation education or training.
• Experience with software program VORTEX or other Population Viability Analysis models ("PVA") and PMx or other pedigree analysis tools.
• Experience using the latest IT tools in support of educational or training programs.
• Experience with creating and managing budgets desirable.
• Experience with developing innovative educational or training strategies.
• Experience with development and support of websites.
• Multilingual ability a plus.

Additional Information: Ability to travel, including internationally, 4 or more week-long trips per year.

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.