Job Openings

Lab to Lake Project Manager

Lake, photo by Naomi Blinick
Photo by Naomi Blinick

Apply: External Candidate Apply: Internal UMN Candidate

Position Overview

MAISRC works to develop science-based solutions to address the AIS issues facing Minnesota's lakes, rivers, and wetlands and to inspire action by others. Our research is focused on developing tools and methods for taking action on AIS by preventing spread, controlling populations, supporting AIS management, and advancing AIS knowledge among natural resource managers and the public. 

Significant research has been conducted to develop management tools for common carp, one of Minnesota’s most ecologically damaging invasive species. Early implementation of various research approaches has proven successful at reducing carp biomass and improving water quality. The primary goal of the Lab to Lake Project is to support the ambitious implementation of whole-lake common carp management plans in at least two watersheds using the best available science and a highly collaborative approach. To complement the active management implementation by external partners, MAISRC researchers and partners will evaluate the ecological benefits (or lack thereof) of management, launch additional lines of research focused on economic development, organizational effectiveness, and method optimization, and conduct outreach for managers and the public through in-person and online formats. Additional focal areas of the Lab to Lake Project will eventually include control of zebra mussel populations and development of a statewide early detection and surveillance program. 

To support the Lab to Lake Project, MAISRC is hiring a full-time project manager. The project manager will be a key member of the team, responsible for the internal coordination and communication with the project team (including academic and management partners), facilitating the development and implementation of a scope of work, managing budgets, and providing updates on progress. The project manager will be on the leading edge of one of the largest aquatic invasive species projects in the country.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Partner Engagement – 30%

  • Build and maintain relationships with external project partners to understand their AIS management needs and serve as a liaison between partners and MAISRC staff and researchers to ensure the development of actionable science.
  • Build and maintain relationships with MAISRC staff and research teams working on the Lab to Lake Project. 
  • Identify new partnership opportunities to support the goals of the Lab to Lake Project.

Research Support – 60%

  • Work closely with research teams to understand and translate research. As directed, support research teams with field or laboratory work.
  • Deliver presentations online and in person, providing updates on the plans and progress of the Lab to Lake Project.
  • Collect, organize, and analyze data to evaluate the progress of the Lab to Lake Project. 
  • Prepare reports, factsheets, research summaries, and white papers that synthesize research findings to provide accessible information and recommendations to state and local managers, as well as other stakeholders.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for research and management related inquiries for the Lab to Lake Project. 
  • Design, organize, and deliver workshops with relevant local, state, federal, and tribal AIS/natural resource managers to share research findings and recommendations. 
  • Oversee planning, spending, and reporting for the Lab to Lake Project budgets.
  • Contribute as needed to funding proposals, legislative briefings, and stakeholder meetings.
  • Identify and develop new research initiatives to support future phases of the Lab to Lake Project, including literature review, need assessments, and budget and proposal preparation. 
  • Assist with onboarding research staff and partners affiliated with the Lab to Lake Project.

Administration – 10%

  • Keep current with developments in the field of invasive species management to advance the Lab to Lake Project.
  • Coordinate with MAISRC communications, outreach, and administrative staff to ensure effective and efficient communication and administration of Lab to Lake Project initiatives.
  • Assist with other duties as needed (e.g., scheduling relevant meetings, drafting meeting minutes, ordering equipment/supplies).

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • BA/BS plus at least five years of experience or an advanced degree with three years of experience, or a combination of related education and work experience to equal nine years.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in environmental science, natural resources, or related field
  • Direct experience with research and management of common carp
  • Experience with project management and working with external contractors
  • Strong writing ability, particularly with scientific and/or dense technical information, and appreciation for the role of science communications
  • Strong public speaking skills and the ability to connect with multiple audiences
  • Experience with facilitating effective workshops, meetings, and/or trainings
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision, seek solutions to complex problems, and perform as part of a team
  • Strong interpersonal and internal communication skills
  • Dependability, accuracy, and attention to detail in all aspects of work
  • Excellent time management skills and ability to adapt in a quickly changing environment
  • Experience working with diverse stakeholders in a variety of settings and locations

Additional Qualifications

  • Cell phone that can be used, as needed, for work purposes - reimbursement is not provided
  • Ability to accommodate a work schedule that includes some evenings and weekends for presentations and community outreach events

Salary/Appointment

This is a full time (1.0 FTE), non-exempt, Civil Service appointment. Salary will commensurate with experience. Estimated starting salary will be $55,000/year. Appointment includes all University of Minnesota benefits for Civil Service employees. This position is funded through December 31, 2027, with the opportunity to extend, pending additional funding.

In-state travel will occasionally be necessary to perform the responsibilities of this position. When travel is necessary, mileage and per diem will be provided according to university policies.

MAISRC supports the University of Minnesota’s Work. With Flexibility approach. Work location options for this position include working partially remote or entirely in the office. Some in-state travel and on-site work will be necessary.

Diversity

The University of Minnesota recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more, please visit the University's Office for Equity and Diversity webpage.

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work at the University of Minnesota. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Application/Timeline

To apply, please click on one of the buttons at the top of this page, or visit UMN Employment and search job ID #359338. To be considered, all applications must be submitted online and include the following:

  • Cover letter detailing interest and fit for the position
  • Resume including relevant experience
  • Three recent, professional references

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Review of applications will be ongoing and will begin on February 8, 2024. For questions about the position or application requirements, please contact MAISRC Director, Nick Phelps.