Job Title: Director
Department/Agency: Department of Marine & Wildlife Resources (DMWR)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$60,000 - $85,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Department of Marine & Wildlife Resources (DMWR)
Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Director of the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources (DMWR) serves as the senior executive responsible for overseeing and guiding the management and conservation of marine, coastal, and wildlife resources in American Samoa. The Director provides leadership and direction in the development and execution of policies, programs, and initiatives aimed at ensuring the sustainable management and protection of natural resources while supporting the local community’s socio-economic and cultural values.
The Director will work closely with local, territorial, and federal agencies, as well as community stakeholders, to ensure effective resource management that balances conservation with sustainable economic use. This leadership position requires strong expertise in environmental science, natural resource management, leadership, and policy development, with a deep commitment to the unique environmental and cultural context of American Samoa.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and Strategic Direction:
Lead the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources in developing and implementing long-term strategic goals, policies, and programs focused on sustainable marine and wildlife resource management.
Ensure that departmental efforts align with local, territorial, and federal environmental policies, as well as international conservation agreements.
Promote a collaborative and inclusive leadership approach within the department to foster teamwork, innovation, and engagement across all levels.
Resource Conservation and Management:
Develop, implement, and enforce regulations aimed at protecting marine and wildlife species, critical habitats, and ecosystems.
Oversee the management of protected areas, marine reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Coordinate resource management strategies, including fishery management plans, habitat restoration, and biodiversity conservation.
Use scientific research, traditional ecological knowledge, and community input to guide resource management decisions.
Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement:
Ensure compliance with local, national, and international environmental laws, including the enforcement of the American Samoa Code Annotated (ASCA) and federal regulations.
Lead and manage the enforcement division within the department, ensuring that illegal fishing, poaching, and other environmental violations are addressed effectively.
Work with local law enforcement and federal agencies, such as NOAA Fisheries, to maintain effective enforcement capabilities.
Research, Data Collection, and Reporting:
Oversee scientific research and environmental monitoring programs to assess the health of marine and wildlife populations, habitats, and ecosystems.
Utilize and manage the department's data systems for tracking and reporting on conservation and resource management efforts.
Publish annual reports and provide briefings on the status of resources, key environmental issues, and department initiatives to stakeholders, including government officials, the public, and funding organizations.
Community Outreach and Education:
Lead public education and outreach programs designed to raise awareness of marine and wildlife conservation issues and foster sustainable practices among local communities, schools, and other stakeholders.
Engage with local and traditional leaders to integrate cultural values with modern conservation practices, ensuring community buy-in for department initiatives.
Promote environmental stewardship through partnerships with local organizations, schools, and the private sector.
Budget and Resource Management:
Develop and manage the department's annual budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to achieve departmental goals.
Identify, pursue, and secure external funding through grants, partnerships, and other mechanisms to support departmental programs and initiatives.
Ensure that fiscal management adheres to American Samoa Government financial policies and procedures.
Interagency and International Collaboration:
Foster strong relationships with other governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies, including NOAA, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center.
Represent the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources in meetings, conferences, and forums related to marine and wildlife conservation, both locally and internationally.
Collaborate with stakeholders on regional environmental issues, ensuring American Samoa’s interests are effectively represented.
Sustainable Development and Economic Growth:
Promote sustainable economic development strategies that utilize marine and wildlife resources, such as eco-tourism, fisheries, and other sustainable industries.
Work with local communities to develop and implement sustainable livelihoods programs that balance resource conservation with economic opportunities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge:
Comprehensive understanding of marine biology, wildlife management, conservation ecology, and sustainable resource management practices.
In-depth knowledge of territorial and federal environmental regulations and policies.
Familiarity with international environmental treaties, particularly those related to marine conservation and biodiversity protection.
Awareness of local environmental challenges, including climate change, invasive species, and the socio-economic factors influencing resource use in American Samoa.
Skills:
Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to manage and inspire a team of professionals in a dynamic and complex environment.
Expertise in policy development, regulatory frameworks, and the application of scientific research to resource management.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with government officials, community leaders, stakeholders, and the public.
Proficient in managing budgets, securing funding, and developing partnerships to support resource management goals.
Abilities:
Ability to make sound, timely decisions based on both scientific data and community input.
Capacity to balance the often competing demands of resource conservation, economic development, and community well-being.
Strong problem-solving abilities, particularly in addressing environmental challenges and resource management issues.
Ability to represent the department and territory at the local, national, and international levels with professionalism and expertise.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education:
A Master’s degree in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Wildlife Management, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A Ph.D. is preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in natural resource management, environmental science, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a senior management or leadership role.
Demonstrated experience in policy development, program management, and cross-agency collaboration.
Proven ability to manage complex projects and large budgets effectively.
Experience working with Pacific Island communities or in island ecosystems is highly desirable.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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