Russian Conservation Program Manager or Associate

Position Summary

Reporting to the Senior Advisor of Western Pacific Programs, the Russian Conservation Program Manager or Associate is responsible for managing implementation of specific conservation strategies and projects of the Wild Salmon Center in the Russian Far East. This includes development and oversight of project work plans and budgets, participation in strategic planning, managing project implementation, checking progress against planned outcomes, reporting on project results to the team and to donors, drafting grant proposals in collaboration with the Development team, and ensuring effective communication with Russian partners.

Examples of projects that we work on include:

• Conservation planning and monitoring on Sakhalin
•  Effecting protected area creation and implementing other watershed-based strategies in Kamchatka and Khabarovsk
• Working to minimize impacts of oil and gas development and mining on freshwater ecosystems from which wild salmon depend upon in the Russian Far East
• Working with decision-makers, scientists, and the private sector in Moscow to secure support for achieving our conservatio.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated program development and management skills, as well as a strong understanding of Russian and international conservation issues, Russian culture, and the intricacies of working in the Russian Federation. This individual must also have the ability to: handle multiple tasks simultaneously; collaborate effectively with internal and external partners; and possess excellent communication skills. A minimum of three years experience working in the environmental field is required for the Manager level position and desired for an Associate level position.

Candidates will be considered for both a manager and associate position depending on qualifications. The exact position title, scope of work and compensation will be based, in part, upon the skills the candidate can bring to the Organization.

Responsibilities

• Together with the Senior Advisor of Western Pacific Programs, develop and implement conservation strategies and annual work plans
• Prepare and administer project budgets
• Work closely with US and Russian colleagues, partners and grant recipients
• Participate in grant writing and fundraising activities for WSC and Russian partners
• Prepare regular progress reports and strategy updates for WSC Management, Board of Directors, and funders
• Oversee the planning, logistics, and management of events such as meetings, planning sessions and  workshops, often involving international participants
• Represent WSC at events in Russia and the United State.

Key Qualifications

• Strong Russian language skills, both written and verbal required
• Graduate degree in related field (conservation science, fisheries science, environmental science, environmental policy, natural resource management, etc) and/or bachelor's degree with relevant experience
• Demonstrated success in program development and management, including budgeting and work planning
• Ability to develop strong and constructive relationships with regional NGOs, government agencies, scientists, and community and political leaders
• Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to creatively problem-solve
• Competent in Microsoft Office, including knowledge of Excel formulas and spreadsheets, and preferred skills in Photoshop and other application
• Personal commitment to environmental conservation and social justice
• Effective team player
• Experience working cross-culturally

Travel and Hours of Work

The position is based in Portland, Oregon and will require extensive travel to the Russian Far East and Moscow.  Periodic travel within the United States may also be required.

Compensation

The compensation package includes a competitive salary and excellent benefits package including: 401(k) match, medical and dental plan, flexible spending account, life insurance and disability coverage.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION / EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

To Apply

Submit cover letter and resume to info@wildsalmoncenter.org, and include “Russian Conservation Program Manager” in the subject line.

APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL THE POSITION IS FILLED