Junior or Assistant Extension Agent (Fisheries Policy Development Specialist) Position #0084843T

University of Hawai'i System

University of Hawai'i System

Honolulu, HI, USA
Posted 6+ months ago

Description

Title: Junior or Assistant Extension Agent (Fisheries Policy Development Specialist)
Position Number: 0084843T
Hiring Unit: University of Hawai'i Sea Grant College Program
Geographic Location: Koror, Palau
Date Posted: July 29, 2024
Closing Date: August 23, 2024
Monthly Type: 11 Month
Tenure Track: Non Tenure
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time (100% FTE)
Temporary/Permanent: Temporary
Other Conditions: Renewal contingent upon availability of funds and satisfactory performance of duties.


We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Fisheries Policy Development Specialist to collaborate on the development of a comprehensive fisheries policy for the country of Palau. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the sustainable management and conservation of Palau's marine resources through an inclusive policy development approach to gather information and feedback through research, extension, and outreach efforts. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of fisheries science, policy development, and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on promoting sustainable practices and protecting the marine ecosystem. The position will serve as faculty with the University of Hawai'i Sea Grant College Program working within the Palau Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment in Koror, Palau.


Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Fisheries Policy Development:
    • Conduct extensive research/review and analysis of existing fisheries policies, regulations, and management frameworks in Palau and other relevant jurisdictions.
    • Identify gaps and opportunities for improvement in the current policy landscape and propose innovative strategies to address them.
    • Collaborate with national and state government agencies, scientific institutions, and community/stakeholders to gather input and insights for policy development.
    • Draft and refine a comprehensive fisheries policy framework that aligns with Palau's conservation goals, sustainable fisheries/resource management, and socio-economic objectives.
  2. Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach:
    • Support Bureau of Fisheries to develop and implement a comprehensive stakeholder engagement plan to gather input, build consensus, and foster support for the fisheries policy.
    • Collaborate with key partners to conduct workshops, town hall meetings, and consultations with various stakeholders, including fishermen, local communities, NGOs, and government officials.
    • Foster collaboration and communication among different stakeholders to ensure their perspectives are incorporated into the policy development process.
    • Build capacity within Bureau of Fisheries to lead efforts to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable fishing practices, conservation, and the benefits of the proposed policy.
  3. Research and Data Analysis:
    • Review and incorporate information from scientific research and analysis on fisheries-related topics, including stock assessments, ecosystem dynamics, and socio-economic impacts.
    • Collect and analyze fisheries data, including catch and effort statistics, fishery-dependent and fishery-independent data, and socio-economic indicators.
    • Utilize research findings and data analysis to inform policy recommendations and ensure evidence-based decision-making.
    • Identify research gaps and propose studies to fill knowledge and data deficiencies relevant to fisheries policy development.
  4. Capacity Building and Training:
    • Develop and deliver training programs and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the knowledge and skills of fisheries stakeholders in Palau.
    • Provide technical assistance and support to government agencies, local communities, and NGOs in implementing and enforcing fisheries policies and regulations.
    • Collaborate with educational institutions and training centers to develop educational materials, curricula, and workshops related to fisheries policy and sustainable practices.


Minimum Qualifications:

Junior Extension Agent:

A Bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing, with major work in fisheries science, marine biology, environmental science or related field, whichever is appropriate.

Some knowledge of fisheries policy research and development.

Some knowledge of fisheries management principles, regulations, and conservation practices, with an understanding of near shore and pelagic fisheries.

Some knowledge of data analysis and interpretation, including statistical software and fisheries modeling tools.

Evidence of ability for successful practice in the field of fisheries.

Professionalism in meeting and conferring with others.

Must reside in Palau during employment and travel within the country as needed.


Assistant Extension Agent:

A Master’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing, with major work in fisheries science, marine biology, environmental science, marine policy or related field, whichever is appropriate.

At least three (3) years of successful experience in Cooperative Extension work, Sea Grant Extension work or equivalency in closely related fields.

Experience in fisheries policy research and development.

Strong knowledge of fisheries management principles, regulations, and conservation practices, with an understanding of near shore and pelagic fisheries.

Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, including experience with statistical software and fisheries modeling tools.

Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex projects, including coordinating teams and facilitating multi-stakeholder processes.

Ability to exercise independent judgement and to assume responsibility for developing a Cooperative Extension program.

Ability to work harmoniously with other agents in an integrated Cooperative Extension system, and with related agencies.

Professionalism in meeting and conferring with others.

Must reside in Palau during employment and travel within the country as needed.


Desirable Qualifications

Junior Extension Agent:

A Master’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing, with major work in fisheries science, marine biology, environmental science, marine policy or related field, whichever is appropriate

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement.

Knowledge of the social, economic, and cultural context of Palau/Pacific and familiarity with local fisheries issues and challenges.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and develop innovative solutions.

Knowledge of Palauan culture and language as it relates to ocean and coastal resources.


Assistant Extension Agent:

A Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree from a college or university of recognized standing, with major work in fisheries science, marine biology, environmental science or related field, whichever is appropriate.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement.

Knowledge of the social, economic, and cultural context of Palau/Pacific and familiarity with local fisheries issues and challenges.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and develop innovative solutions.

Knowledge of Palauan culture and language as it relates to ocean and coastal resources.


To Apply:

Submit the following online through NEOGOV: 1) cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and desirable qualifications; 2) current curriculum vitae; 3) names and contact information (phone and e-mail) of three (3) professional references; and 4) official transcripts (copies acceptable for application, but if selected, originals required at time of hire). All application materials must be submitted by the closing date. Failure to submit all application materials by the closing date shall deem an application incomplete and will not be considered.


Inquiries:

Darren T. Lerner; 808-956-7031; lerner@hawaii.edu

EEO/AA, Clery Act, ADA

The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, sex, gender identity and expression, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, genetic information, marital status, breastfeeding, income assignment for child support, arrest and court record (except as permissible under State law), sexual orientation, domestic or sexual violence victim status, national guard absence, or status as a covered veteran. For more information or inquiries regarding these policies, please refer to the following link: http://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/eeo-coordinators/

Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.

Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/