Lynker Corporation is a leading provider of innovative solutions in weather and climate science. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Lynker leverages cutting-edge technologies and scientific expertise to support the creation and delivery of improved operational weather forecasts.

As part of our ongoing growth and expansion, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced

Protected Resources Division, Nisqually River Pinniped-Fishery Interaction Task Force

to join our growing team. This role is contingent upon contract award, and pricing may be subject to change based on final bid. Anticipated start date is September 30, 2026.

The commissioning of a Nisqually River Pinniped-Fishery Interaction Task Force (Task Force) is required by subsection 120(c) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) as part of the process when considering an application from an eligible state government requesting to lethally remove those sea lions that are having a significant negative impact on at-risk populations of salmon and steelhead. NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) requires a professional, impartial facilitation team to help manage the Task Force due to the controversial nature of the subject and the discussions. The MMPA requires that the Task Force be convened to review the application, review the public comments on the application, and to provide NMFS with a recommendation to either approve or deny an application requesting authority for lethal removal of sea lions.

Your role will be an independent facilitator who will: advise and assist NMFS in convening the Task Force; be responsible for renting the facility for the Task Force meeting, to include all reimbursable costs associated with rental, equipment and supplies; assess the needs of Task Force members in advance of the session via one-on-one telephone calls; manage and facilitate the participation of Task Force members during their deliberations and discussions; work with Task Force members using facilitation and mediation techniques to sort through polarized views; document task force deliberations; professionally manage public involvement in the Task Force meetings; and write a detailed report that captures the final agreements and recommendations of the Task Force.

Key tasks include:

Task 1: Description—Preparation for Task Force Meetings

a.Plan approach to Task Force meetings with NMFS

b.Review preparatory information/materials w/NMFS

c.Prepare draft agenda and prepare supporting materials for Task Force meetings

d.Pre-meeting calls with Task Force members

e.Reserve and purchase meeting space and equipment rental for up to (55) participants

f.Project management and meeting logistics

Task 2: Description— Facilitate and Document Discussion

a.Facilitate meetings/discussions

b.Document meeting/discussion

Task 3: Description— Report of Task Force Deliberations

a.Prepare meeting/discussion summary

b.Prepare draft report and manage iterative process with Task Force

c.Provide NMFS with draft report and Task Force recommendations for review and approval

d.Revise draft report

e. Provide NMFS with a final report and Task Force recommendation

The Professional Facilitator shall have demonstrated as a lead facilitator and mediator with experience in the field of conflict resolution involving state, local, and federal agencies and the public, and has been the senior/lead mediator/facilitator involving complex, multi-party, multi-state natural resource management related to salmon and steelhead projects in the Pacific Northwest. A local candidate is strongly preferred.

The candidate must possess and maintain the following skills/certifications and/or credentials during the period of performance:

• Master’s degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university and a minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible facilitation management and conflict resolution experience in a professional environment that deals specifically with resolving controversial issues related to Pacific salmon and steelhead in the Pacific Northwest.

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee owned business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.

We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities – creatively and effectively.

Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:

• Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.