Wildlife Biologist I

Coordinates statewide oyster shell recycling activities for the South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement (SCORE) Program, with primary responsibility for coordinating recycling operations and developing and maintaining partnerships. Supports oyster shell planting, community-based restoration, monitoring, and outreach activities.

Works under the direction of the SCORE Program Recycling Coordinator to increase participation in shell recycling and implement program priorities. Independently coordinates assigned projects and day-to-day activities, exercises judgment in resolving routine operational challenges, and keeps the Recycling Coordinator informed of significant developments and decisions. Serves as an integral member of a small team.

• Develops, maintains, and expands assigned partnerships with restaurants, caterers, event organizers, local governments, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and other stakeholders to increase statewide oyster shell recycling. Identifies opportunities for collaboration, addresses barriers to participation, and coordinates volunteer involvement in assigned activities.

• Independently coordinates assigned statewide oyster shell recycling operations, including restaurant, caterer, event, public drop-off, and volunteer-led recycling. Schedules collection activities, coordinates delivery and retrieval of trailers and receptacles, supports shell transport, provides guidance on proper shell handling, and addresses routine logistical challenges.

• Supports oyster shell planting, community-based restoration, monitoring, and other field operations. Coordinates assigned logistics, supplies, equipment, personnel, contractors, and schedules for restoration and planting projects, and participates in field activities as needed.

• Supports outreach and education to increase awareness and participation in oyster shell recycling. Develops educational and promotional materials, maintains assigned web content and public drop-off maps, and represents SCORE at community events, meetings, and presentations.

• Maintains program records and data related to recycling, partnerships, and assigned projects. Assists with data summaries, reporting, grant documentation, and tracking outcomes. Coordinates assigned procurement, purchasing, and vendor activities in accordance with SCDNR policies and maintains appropriate fiscal records.

• Bachelor of Science (BS) in natural, physical, environmental or marine science or related technical field. Knowledge of estuarine ecosystems and their processes, specifically as it pertains to the eastern oyster.

• Working knowledge of heavy equipment, including tractors and skid-steer loaders, and material transport and dumping equipment.

• Experience in operating and trailering small boats.

• Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 60 pounds) and work under adverse conditions including high heat and humidity.

• Willing to work occasional evenings and weekends, and extended workdays as required by project schedules.

• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and carry out assigned projects with limited supervision.

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with diverse partners and the public.

• Ability to identify and troubleshoot logistical challenges and adapt to changing field and program needs.

• Experience with giving professional presentations to scientific, educational, academic, or public audiences.

• Working knowledge of MS Office applications, data entry, and GIS software.

Salary : $40,086 - $68,136