This is supervisory professional biology work with administrative responsibility in biological programs in the conservation and management of natural areas and landscaped grounds of the Deering Estate for the Park and Recreation Department.

An employee in this class supervises and coordinates biological programs related to the conservation and management of natural, historic, cultural and architectural resources found within the natural areas of the Deering Estate. Responsibilities include coordination of environmental, biological, archeological and preservation programs, planning of comprehensive evaluation studies, and administrative duties in the requisition of materials and recommendation of new procedures. Typical assignments are broad in scope with considerable opportunity for exercising independent judgment and making complex decisions. Supervision is exercised over a group of professional and technical employees. General supervision is received from a professional superior employee who reviews results for conformity with departmental policies, practices and regulations and for attainment of desired objectives.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Plans, designs and supervises biological programs in the conservation and management of natural areas and landscaped historic grounds in accordance with the landscape plan of the Deering Estate.

Supervises and guides professional, technical and administrative assistants by delegation of assigned projects and review of completed work for quality of results.

Assists in developing ecotourism programs compatible with site resources to provide regional, national and international opportunities for learning.

Plans and coordinates educational programs for college level students, post-graduate students and adult programs on natural areas in conjunction with higher public and private educational institutions. Develops seminars, workshops and training sessions for technical specialist, staff and the general public on Deering Estate resources.

Directs the preservation and protection of natural areas containing endangered species, historic ground and archaeological resources and directs complex microbiological investigations seeking to determine impact from exotic species.

Directs and participates in the development of grant applications related to resource management and oversee the management of grant funded projects.

Updates and develops field and laboratory procedures; develops quality control techniques, analyzes sampling and testing procedures.

Purchases needed materials for the Deering Estate natural areas.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of the science of biology in the areas of assignment, including basic principles and techniques of biological investigation and analysis.

Thorough knowledge of current trends and research in terrestrial, aquatic and marine biology in tropical environments.

Considerable knowledge of laws, regulations, ordinances, procedures and guidelines required for the protection and restoration of environmentally sensitive ecosystems.

Considerable knowledge of the protection and restoration of archaeological and fossil sites.

Ability to organize and direct complex biological programs in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to plan, conduct and evaluate research, experiments and studies.

Ability to establish and maintain good public relations through contacts with individuals, organizations and representatives of other agencies.

Ability to develop improved quality control, sampling and testing techniques.

Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

Rev. 03/05