New

Conservation Botanist

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

United States, North Carolina, Chapel Hill

104 Airport Dr (Show on map)

Jul 03, 2025

Posting Information

Department	NC Botanical Garden-525000
Career Area	Research Professionals
Posting Open Date	07/03/2025
Application Deadline	07/18/2025
Open Until Filled	No
Position Type	Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)
Working Title	Conservation Botanist
Appointment Type	EHRA Non-Faculty
Position Number	20071244
Vacancy ID	NF0009171
Full Time/Part Time	Full-Time Permanent
FTE	1
Hours per week	40
Position Location	North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
Proposed Start Date	09/08/2025

Position Information

Be a Tar Heel!	A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit	The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, various people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard, and everyone feels safe and welcome.
Position Summary	The purpose of the Conservation Botanist is to further the impact of research on imperiled species, fire and environmental factors in the SE Coastal Plain and to coordinate associated conservation activities with partners and stakeholders. To meet these goals and extend the mission of NCBG, the Conservation Botanist, in conjunction NCBG staff and a collaborative research team, will participate in and engage partners with research designed to understand the changing role of prescribed fire and environmental factors on rare flora in the SE Coastal Plain, particularly Venus flytrap and associated species, with aims to improve current and future management practices. The Conservation Botanist will conduct field work and/or coordinate partners to collect and analyze data on the status and abundance of rare plant species, analyze management history to develop priorities matching rare plant occurrence and management needs, coordinate community groups and agency partners in active conservation in conjunction with the research, organize and lead stakeholder meetings to present research findings on future best practices, participate in data collection on Venus flytrap research, and assist in leading undergraduate research projects in line with project goals. The Conservation Botanist will also support the mission and vision of the North Carolina Botanical Garden. This is a 2.5-year grant funded position contingent upon additional funding.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements	Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience	Demonstrated experience identifying native plants in their natural habitats. Experience classifying and mapping ecological natural communities in the field. Experience working with nongovernmental organizations (NGO's), agencies, and private landowners on conservation issues. Demonstrated interpersonal skills. Strong written and oral communication skills. Demonstrated organizational ability. Should be self-motivated and have the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Willingness to travel throughout North Carolina(NC) and the southeast United States and to work flexible hours including long days, overnight travel and some evenings or weekends. Must have a valid NC drivers license or the ability to obtain one.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience	Professional experience using ArcGIS software to create and edit maps; and analyze spatial data. Experience conducting botanical field surveys in the Sandhills and Coastal Plain regions of North Carolina. In-depth knowledge of the flora of the Coastal Plain and Sandhills of North Carolina, including species identification, habitat requirements, management recommendations, and NC Natural Community Classification. Completed coursework in plant taxonomy and ecology. Understanding of fire ecology and/or effects of fire on plants. Understanding of the effects of ecological dynamics on plant populations.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements	Ability to safely lift or move up to 50 pounds with or without accommodations. Ability to work in adverse conditions (high temperatures, humidity, insect exposure) out of doors for extended periods of time and to traverse long distances on uneven terrain with or without accommodations.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities	Not Applicable.
Special Instructions
Quick Link	https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/303367

Posting Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title	Mike Kunz, Director of Conservation Programs
Department Contact Telephone or Email	mkunz@unc.edu
Office of Human Resources Contact Information	If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement	The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.