Ikautiliuqti (One Who Builds Bridges) - UIC Science

Overview:

UIC Science is seeking a Ikautiliuqti (One Who Builds Bridges) to provide field support for scientists, military, and media clients working in and around Utqiavik while fostering meaningful partnerships between visiting groups and the local community. This position is a hybrid role that is firmly rooted in UIC Science daily operations with a focus on developing meaningful partnership between visiting groups and the local community. This position coordinates visitor engagement activities, supports community outreach events, develops communication materials, and represents UIC Science at professional and public events. While also working as part of the UIC Science operations team to support field logistics, equipment and vehicle maintenance, facility operations, and bear guard duties as needed.  

Responsibilities:

Essential Functions:   

• Coordinate and facilitate visits by research teams, agency representatives, and other guests, including facility tours, community introductions, and local orientation activities.
• Serve as a primary liaison between UIC Science, visiting researchers, community members, Tribal organizations, educational institutions, and other local stakeholders to foster positive, collaborative relationships.
• Collaborate with Program and Project Managers to identify and execute creative outreach opportunities, including educational programming, science curricula, exhibits, public presentations, workshops, and community events.
• Promote awareness of local history, Indigenous knowledge, and ongoing scientific research through educational materials, outreach activities, and community engagement.
• Build and maintain long-term partnerships with researchers, community organizations, schools, and other stakeholders to encourage meaningful collaboration.
• Identify potential areas of concern or conflict between visiting groups and the community and proactively facilitate respectful communication and mutually beneficial solutions.
• Represent UIC Science at conferences, professional meetings, community events, and outreach activities through presentations, exhibits, and networking.
• Produce written, photographic, video, and drone-based media in support of projects and outreach efforts.
• Contribute to scientific publications, technical reports, educational resources, and other written products as appropriate.
• Supporting UIC Science daily field operations, including:
• Maintenance and repair of equipment and vehicles
• General support of field operations
• Working as part of a team
• Bear Guard
• Other duties as needed

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Excellent public speaking skills & development of presentations (including PowerPoint).
• Flexibility to participate in both project-specific support and operations support.
• Operating ATVs, snowmachines, and trucks.
• Familiarity with land and water near Utqiavik, Alaska.
• Ability to follow instructions and complete tasks independently.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Remote hunting or camping being out on the ice or land.

Preferred Qualifications:

• US Fish and Wildlife Service Bear Guard certification.

Physical and Mental Demands:

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time.
• Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically.