Cyanobacteria Science Coordinator
Association to Preserve Cape Cod
The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) seeks an experienced project manager to manage the sample analysis, interpretation, and reporting of results for APCC’s Cyanobacteria Monitoring Program ( https://apcc.org/our-work/science/community-science/cyanobacteria/ ).
APCC is the region’s leading 501(c)3 nonprofit environmental organization working for the adoption of laws, policies and programs that protect and enhance Cape Cod’s natural resources and quality of life. Founded in 1968, the mission of APCC is to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural resources of Cape Cod. Our vision is a carbon-neutral Cape Cod where waters are restored and protected, natural landscapes and wildlife habitat are preserved, and where growth respects the character of town centers and rural lands. For more information, visit https://apcc.org.
Our Cyanobacteria Monitoring Program goals are to:
- Raise public awareness of the health and ecological risks posed by harmful cyanobacteria blooms (HCBs);
- Help inform proper responses to cyanobacteria concerns in order to promote public health;
- Monitor priority ponds across the Cape; and
- Motivate public action to address the causes of HCBs by improving water quality.
APCC’s Cyanobacteria Monitoring Program partners with officials at the town, county, state, and federal levels as well as local pond associations and residents to conduct cyanobacteria monitoring in Cape Cod ponds. Each year 120-140 freshwater ponds are monitored biweekly from late May through October. Monitoring results, interpretations, and recommendations are reported within 48 hours to local officials and the public through reports, emails, and our interactive map of monitoring results. Results are communicated as either “Acceptable,” “Potential for Concern,” or “Use Restriction Warranted” which describe the potential risks of exposure to cyanobacteria toxins corresponding to monitoring results. End-of-season reports are provided which summarize results for the entire season. R
Responsibilities: The Cyanobacteria Science Coordinator is responsible for: 1) ensuring the overall scientific quality of the cyanobacteria monitoring program through oversight of sample collection, analyses, interpretation, and reporting of monitoring results, and 2) communicating results and other information to municipal officials, agencies, organizations, and the public in an accurate clear manner. Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
- Ensure rigor and accuracy of the cyanobacteria monitoring program,
- Supervise staff and interns who conduct pond sampling, sample preparation, lab analysis of cyanobacteria identification, fluorometry, and timely reporting of results;
- Oversee data management, analysis, quality assurance, and weekly/biweekly reports; upload results to APCC’s online GIS map; and provide final reports;
- Coordinate with Barnstable County lab to conduct toxin testing of samples;
- Maintain and calibrate lab and field equipment;
- Prepare and send final reports at end of season;
- Provide presentations to the public, health officials, and others; and
- Assist with proposals as needed.
Minimum Requirements: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., water resources, hydrology, limnology, natural resource management, environmental microbiology, etc.) and a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience.
Required Experience and Skills:
- Management of water-related monitoring projects;
- Supervision of employees and interns;
- Lab analysis of water quality, cyanobacteria, or other water-related resources;
- Data management and data analysis using Microsoft Excel;
- Quality assurance and quality control;
- Preparation of reports;
- Excellent communication skills (verbal, written);
- Computer skills and experience with Office 365, Microsoft Word, and Excel; and
- Ability to work in a timely manner to meet schedules.
The Cyanobacteria Science Coordinator will report to APCC’s Project Director for the Cyanobacteria and Pond Monitoring Programs and will work with other cyanobacteria program staff. The Cyanobacteria Science Coordinator will be supported by the APCC Project Team (i.e., Executive Director, Director of Science Programs, and the Director of Outreach and Education). Work with other APCC staff may occasionally occur as directed.
This is a full-time, year-round position. Salary is commensurate with experience. We endeavor to provide a supportive, creative, motivating, and safe work environment and offer generous benefits inclusive of paid leave and health benefits. APCC is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
To apply, email a cover letter and resume to Dr. Julie Hambrook at: info@apcc.org