An opportunity to use your expertise to help protect the Bay estuary and its unique ecosystem!

Founded in 1981, the Bay Institute (TBI) is the policy, research and advocacy arm of Bay.org, Northern California’s largest conservation science, education and outreach organization. TBI's scientists and policy experts work to protect the San Francisco Bay estuary's native fish and wildlife species; restore the habitats and processes that support a healthy ecosystem; promote sustainable water and land management practices; and measure how well the ecosystem - and management efforts to protect it - is doing. To achieve these goals, TBI conducts technical analyses; engages in regulatory, legislative and voluntary decision-making processes; and educates media, decision-makers and the public on key issues.

Lead scientist responsibilities:

• Reports to the Bay Institute’s Program Director, and consults with the Program Director on science-based strategies for achieving TBI policy and advocacy goals.
• Oversees the technical, analytical work necessary to refine and promote TBI’s positions regarding Bay-Delta ecosystem restoration and water management, by:
• Conducting research and analysis on priority issues, and
• Supervising the activities of technical staff and consultants, and reporting to the Program Director on staff activities.
• Reviews the scientific literature, environmental documents and other materials as needed to track and apply the best available scientific information.
• Represents TBI in hearings, workshops, conferences and other meetings as appropriate.

Lead scientist qualifications:

• Doctorate in conservation biology, aquatic ecology or related field, or equivalent expertise

Key skills/knowledge desired:

• Understanding of California water policy and environmental management issues
• Ability to rapidly review and analyze multiple streams of complex information and use findings to help formulate effective science-based policy guidance for management issues
• Ability to communicate complex scientific issues and recommendations to decision-makers and the public
• Several years’ experience in engaging on aquatic ecosystem management issues
• Exceptional writing ability
• Collegiality, flexibility and a sense of humor

The position will be based in Northern California. Our office is located in San Francisco. Offsite (i.e., home office) basing will be considered for qualified candidates in Northern and Central California. This is a full time, 40 hours per week position with a flexible work shift. The Lead Scientist must be able to attend meetings in Sacramento, the San Joaquin Valley and the Bay Area as needed. Salary range $80,000 - $100,000 (+ benefits) depending on academic expertise and work experience. Applications should be submitted to hadley@bay.org.