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Taxonomic Certification Program Coordinator

The Program Coordinator reports to the Taxonomic Certification Committee (TCC). Under the direction of the TCC, the Coordinator performs the following tasks:

  • Acquire a bank of questions from taxonomic experts and develop a web-based test procedure for the self-examination test.
  • Develop a library of digital images of all appropriate aquatic invertebrate families that will serve as the source of test material for the Level 1 Taxonomic Certification Examination (TCE).
  • Compile from taxonomic experts and maintain sufficient specimens to conduct at least eight or nine Level 2 TCE events per year (x 30 candidates).
  • For each Level 2 TCE candidate, select 20 specimens of the relevant taxonomic group, number them, and ship them to the Level 2 TCE site at least two weeks before each examination date.
  • Establish a list of Level 1 and Level 2 TCE locations and examination supervisors prior to testing.
  • Coordinate with Level 1 and Level TCE supervisors to ensure availability and suitability of resources required for testing.
  • Receive and maintain lists of candidates with records of payments, contact information, and addresses for distribution of examination results.
  • Ensure that results are received from the Level 2 TCE supervisors and recorded in a TCE database.
  • Ensure that electronic (Levels 1 and 2) and hard copy (Level 2) of TCE results for all candidates are archived for a five-year period for confirmation and for reference against challenged examinations.
  • Work with TCC to establish and enact protocols regarding appeals.
  • Notify each Level 2 TCE candidate electronically and in writing within 10 business days after the date of the examination regarding the results of his/her examination.
  • Identify taxonomic experts.
  • Establish a calendar of test times.
  • Establish a computerized database that will include:
    • TCE registration information and fees received from candidates.
    • Certification records (when, what, where, and from whom certified; certification expiration dates; certification numbers; re-certification information).
    • Taxonomic experts (credentials; taxonomic groups; regions; good quality specimen collection/database for supplying and informing the test process).
    • Testing (dates and locations; registration details; examination site and supervisor costs; links to test sites).
  • Maintain accurate and audited accounts of fees received and costs paid.