Human Dimensions of Conservation Research Associate

Join us as part of a dynamic team and science-based culture where our mission is to Lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts to Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature, and Conserve our natural resources. This contract role will assist the Disney Conservation team based at Walt Disney World Resort® with projects aiming to develop and enhance the human dimensions of conservation including social science, evaluation, and community and Cast Member engagement in our science and conservation efforts.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the direction of a Conservation Programs Manager, the Research Associate will:

• Comply with Disney rules and guidelines relating to appearance and professional conduct for the duration of the contract.
• Collaborate with the members of Disney Conservation to develop and execute conservation social science projects.
• Assist with social science data collection, analysis, and scientific writing.
• Engage diverse teams and Cast Members across Walt Disney World Resort® in science and conservation opportunities.
• Help create and deliver conservation education and career programming.
• Support evaluations of core projects.
• Share team projects and conservation stories through interactions with Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members and guests to inspire them to conserve species and their habitats.
• Communicate project findings and results in staff seminars, scientific journals, conference presentations, and popular publications.
• Support local initiatives and project activations in collaboration with internal and external partners to inspire others through our community outreach programs, including engagement with Disney Conservation Day Camp.
• Work in close association on projects with other members of the Conservation and Science Operations Team and other teams within Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment department at the Walt Disney World Resort.
• Other duties as assigned, including changing focus to work on other Disney Conservation programs to support learning and development.

Term:

This is a three-year contract appointment beginning as soon as May 2023, as an independent contractor through the New College of Florida, based at Disney’s Animal Kingdom®.  Applicant must be able to work in the United States. Employer will not pay fees associated with relocation or visa/work permit applications.

Basic Qualifications:

• A four-year degree with a major in Human Dimensions, Social Science, Conservation, Wildlife Biology, other related fields, or equivalent experience. 
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office Products. 
• Ability to multi-task. 
• Demonstrate strong organization and time management skills to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines; analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail. 
• Strong written and verbal communication. 
• Excellent outreach, engagement, and public speaking skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, as well within a dynamic team setting.  
• Full availability with work schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts. 
• Willing to travel, stay, and work in remote areas, alone or with others. 
• Possess (or willing/able to obtain) a valid US driver's license.    
• Ability to endure heat, humidity, biting insects, equipment failures, and other challenges associated with occasional work in the field on associated conservation projects. 
• Ability to professionally represent Disney Conservation when interacting with external organizations.  

 Preferred Qualifications: 

• A Master’s degree in Human Dimensions, Social Science, Evaluation, Environmental Education, or related field.
• Experience with scientific writing. 
• Experience with SPSS, Stata, R or other statistics software. 
• Experience working with the public in an informal learning setting (i.e., zoo, aquarium, museum or science center). 
• Experience working internationally.   
• Ability to read and understand Spanish. 

To Apply:

Email CV/resume and cover letter detailing relevant past experiences and career goals, as well as contact information for three professional references to:

• Kelley Anderson Ph.D., Disney Conservation Programs Manager, kelley.anderson@disney.com  

AND

• Gina Woods, Disney Conservation Programs Manager, gina.m.woods@disney.com.

Please submit materials by the position closing date of Sunday, May 7, 2023.