Assistant Professor of Wildland Fire Science - Silver City, United States - Western New Mexico University

Description

Position Title Assistant Professor of Wildland Fire Science
Position Classification Faculty
Employment Type Limited Term
Benefits Limited-Term Benefitted
Department Natural Sciences
Summary
To provide academic training in the fields of wildland fire science and natural resources management.
Duties

Plan, develop, and implement course curricula for the new wildland fire science program including instruction of field-based courses in fire science, wildland fire management, and/or policy.

Teaching a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.
Develops syllabi and maintains materials and supplies for field-based courses that are associated with the program.
Follows risk management policies and procedures established for university outdoor programming.
Mentor students for outdoor-related programs and degree plans.

Broadens knowledge of teaching methods, techniques and skills and maintains a supportive environment with students, other faculty and staff and supports the development of an empowering work environment.

Collaborates with diverse groups within and outside the university to identify internship, service learning, and practicum experiences for students.

Conducts research program or other scholarship activities suitable to a small, teaching university that accommodates the inclusion of undergraduate students.

Provides professional contributions within areas of expertise as appropriate.
Participates in departmental and University committees and special projects.
Provides a broad range of administrative and supervisory functions. Supervises assigned staff in accordance with WNMU personnel practices including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, guidance, etc. Participates in the process of ongoing personal and professional development. Maintains comprehensive communication among all contacts (internal and external). Models professional standards and ethics in accordance with WNMU philosophy.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education/Background
M.S.

plus three years professional work in natural resources, earth science, forestry, public policy and planning, emergency management, wildland fire science, or another related field required; Ph.

D. preferred. Bilingual (Spanish) preferred.
Job Knowledge
Demonstrated knowledge of Western US forest and fire ecology, wildfire management, and/or wildfire experience. Evidence of expertise in fire behavior and/or management in the Western US. Experience engaging with Indigenous fire science/traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and tribal nations preferred. Previous experience teaching fire science, fire management, and/or fire policy courses preferred. Experience as an NWCG instructor preferred. Must be knowledgeable of University policies and procedures. Must be able to handle multiple deadlines and maintain accuracy. Must be sensitive to cultural differences within the University and community. Fluent in Microsoft Office Applications.
Working Conditions/ Physical Demands (With or Without Accommodations)
Normal classroom or laboratory environment. May travel some within the community when needed. May be required to lift normal office equipment and materials. Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information. Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication. Hearing ability for verbal communication/ conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions. Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing, reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, and prolonged sitting. May be required to work additional hours or days depending on circumstances.
Other Requirements
a. Current Wilderness First Responder Certification or must obtain within 1 year of hire date.
b. Current NWCG Red Card.
c. Chainsaw experience.
d. Requires a valid New Mexico driver's license.
e. Must pass a Defensive Driving Course within 6 months of hire date.
Location Silver City
Salary Range $62,689 - $67,998
Length of Contract 9/10 Months