Job Tag: Conservation

The Program in Plant Biology and Conservation (PBC) at Northwestern University invites applications for a full-time, benefits eligible, teaching track (non-tenure eligible) faculty appointment as Assistant Professor of Instruction. The Plant Biology and Conservation program is offered jointly with the Chicago Botanic Garden and administers master’s and PhD degrees, as well as serves undergraduates, including contributing courses to the concentration in ecology and evolution within the biological science major. Northwestern University and the Chicago Botanic Garden offer a rich intellectual environment, and the successful applicant will join a highly interactive and vibrant community.

The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching and a strong interest in education scholarship and sharing of best teaching practices. We seek candidates with experience and teaching interests in ecosystem ecology broadly, including but not limited to: soil and fungal ecology, restoration ecology, landscape ecology, ecophysiology, traditional ecological knowledge, evolutionary ecology, or conservation policy. Responsibilities include: teaching six courses annually over the course of three academic quarters. These will contribute to required and elective courses that serve the Plant Biology and Conservation Graduate Program, as well as Environmental Science, and Biological Science majors. The successful applicant will also develop courses in their own area of expertise and have the opportunity to mentor student research.

Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. in Biology, Ecology, Evolution, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related field, which must be conferred by the start of the appointment, September 1, 2024. Preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated excellence, breadth, and innovation in teaching. Applicants should submit 1) a cover letter, 2) CV, 3) a teaching portfolio (including teaching interests and philosophy, sample syllabi, and teaching evaluations), and 4) contact information for three references (at least one of which can discuss applicant’s teaching qualifications). Review of application materials will begin on January 8, 2024, and will continue until the position is filled. The Plant Biology and Conservation Program is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. Candidates are welcome to describe within their teaching statement how their experiences and approaches around diversity and inclusion inform their approach to teaching, advising, and mentoring. Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes.

Delaware Greenways envisions a State where trails, pathways and scenic corridors connect everyone to where they want to go, empowering them to live healthier lives as they discover and enjoy the outdoors.

Delaware Greenways has an immediate opening for a (Part Time) Trail Project Coordinator to advance its work in New Castle County. If you have a background in outdoor recreation, transportation planning or community engagement, this position is for you. Have strong people skills, willing to take initiative, and have a desire to work with diverse populations, you’re a perfect fit.

Part-time, 25 hours per week – Flexible hours.

Location: Remote or in office – Wilmington.

The Nature Conservancy has been working on the Island since 1972, and officially launched the Block Island Program in 1991. The Nature Conservancy’s strength lies in its strong partnerships, local staff with extensive knowledge of Block Island’s ecology, and our use of proven, science-based strategies. With the help of partners, donors, and volunteers, the Island’s community-based conservation program has made significant progress in the last three decades with more than 47% of Block Island conserved for the benefit of people and wildlife. In recent years, TNC has initiated long-term monitoring of the Great Salt Pond, a large coastal salt pond, to become more knowledgeable of its ecological functions and values. This effort is part of our larger commitment to provide sound science and engagement opportunities to strengthen protection of Block Island’s unique natural resource.
WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The Marine Program Assistant is responsible for assisting the Block Island Marine Program with scientific activities involving fisheries surveys, water quality monitoring, salt marsh monitoring; assisting with summer nature programs and other stewardship activities; overseeing volunteers and performing office duties. This seasonal position will provide vital assistance to ensure this collective body of work is done effectively and efficiently. The Marine Program Assistant role will include:

Performs fieldwork including estuarine and coastal scientific data collection.
Compiles data, resolves disparities and maintains datasets for various projects to generate plans and write reports.
Assist with research vessel operations including launching, handling line, and fieldwork equipment.
Assist with nature walks and outreach programs to educate the public about local natural history, conservation, and the Nature Conservancy’s mission on Block Island.
Assist in guidance of volunteers and youth groups.
May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
Work requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

The Marine Program Assistant is supervised by the Great Salt Pond Scientist and works closely with other TNC staff to conduct fieldwork in the Great Salt Pond on Block Island. We are looking for someone who is a team player, motivated problem-solver, and willing to learn and help with any tasks involved in the Block Island Office and Program. This is a 20-week position beginning on May 20, 2024, through October 11, 2024. It is a full-time, temporary position (35 hrs. per week and COVID permitting). Housing is available.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING

High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience.
Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $15 – 17 per hour.

This is a full-time, 35 hours per week position.

To apply for job ID 54429, submit your materials online by using the Apply Now button at https://careers.nature.org/.

HeartLands Conservancy is a leading conservation nonprofit and land trust in the St. Louis, Missouri, Metropolitan Area, serving southern Illinois. The organization works with landowners, governments, and organizations to conserve our region’s land and water resources, restore wildlife habitat, reduce flooding, plan resilient communities, and educate about natural resources. Over the past 35 years, HeartLands Conservancy has conserved more than 10,000 acres of natural areas, green spaces, and farmland.

The Land Conservation Manager will manage and oversee land protection, stewardship, restoration, and acquisition projects. This includes implementing a Conservation Strategic Plan; developing landowner contacts and conservation strategies; leading conservation easement and fee title negotiations, acquisitions, and stewardship; and assisting with fund development support on conservation projects. The position also develops and implements plans for land restoration and management and works with communities and individuals to implement conservation best practices.

The position reports to the Vice-President and works closely and collaboratively with senior leadership, the Programs & Services Committee, volunteers, and program staff to meet strategic goals for protected lands.The position requires strong interpersonal skills, excellent communication skills, strong organizational skills, and a comprehensive knowledge of environmental resources.

Responsibilities

Land Protection and Stewardship:

Lead land protection efforts, including:
Provide information to landowners about conservation options and programs for conservation easement and land donations and acquisitions; visit with landowners to discuss objectives.

Maintain regular direct communication with landowners; identify partners, process, and timelines; negotiate easement terms; prepare and review legal documents in consultation with legal counsel; explain policies and procedures. Obtain and manage discrete information from landowners necessary for state and federal grants.
Monitor conservation easements and owned properties annually and build a relationship with the landowners and neighbors.

Organize and conduct stewardship on properties owned by HeartLands Conservancy, as well as on properties in which HeartLands Conservancy holds a conservation easement or management agreement.
Lead training of volunteers, track volunteer time, and coordinate the safety of those participating in events.
Work with park districts, communities, counties, townships, neighborhoods, and other organizations to recruit, train, and assist in invasive species removal and ecosystem restoration.
Develop and maintain an annual plan of work for stewardship practices on HeartLands Conservancy’s owned and managed properties. Such annual plan should include elements of any existing management plans in place for the property.
Develop and update management plans for properties owned or managed by HeartLands Conservancy.
Procure and manage stewardship contractors and recruit and manage stewardship volunteers.

Conservation and Restoration Planning:

Developing programs to achieve regional land and water conservation goals.
Working with municipalities and other units of government to preserve open space and develop parks through grant writing, technical assistance, stewardship assistance, and planning/study development.
Completing park and natural area operations and management plans; greenway planning; urban forestry planning/technical assistance; and other conservation-related planning efforts in partnership with the Resilient Communities Program Manager.
Developing and implementing stewardship and restoration plans.
Ensuring the organization’s conservation easements and fee-owned or leased land is in compliance with Land Trust Alliance Standards and Practices.

Communications, Outreach, and Engagement:

Developing, leading, and/or participating in educational workshops, hikes, events, lectures, tours, etc., on conservation topics.
Representing HeartLands Conservancy in regional and state conservation initiatives.
Working with the Fund Development team to share stories of change to build support for conservation.
Managing both big picture, long-term and detailed daily communication with a wide variety of parties, such as elected officials, staff, consultants, contractors, funders, and neighbors through the lifecycle of a project.

Project Management:

Managing conservation projects at a variety of scales, including regional, community, and site-level.
Creating and managing timelines and budgets of projects and ensuring project deliverables are meeting deadlines.
Coordinating with partners to align goals and priorities, assessing technical feasibility of projects, and allocating available resources.
Procuring, onboarding, and managing a variety of vendors, including ability to develop scope, negotiate contracts, implement project controls, and manage relationships toward measurable outcomes and deliverables.
Identifying, writing, and managing applications for federal, state, and private grants, as well as, managing grants as they are awarded.
Managing and reporting progress to staff, board of directors, funders, and the public.
Researching best practices and developing innovative solutions to maintain an excellent level of project delivery.
Filing relevant paperwork and field notes in both hard copy and digital format for each project and ensuring compliance with Land Trust Alliance standards.
Mentoring and training staff and volunteers on stewardship, conservation practices, and other relevant skills.

Other duties:

Overseeing the maintenance of tools and field equipment.
Requires attendance and participation at events on some evenings/weekends.
Maintaining Pesticide Applicator Licensing as required by the State.
Assisting the CEO and VP in special projects and tasks as needed.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

Degree in environmental studies, land use planning, natural resource management, ecology/biology, forestry, related field, or substantial experience in a related field.
Substantial experience in land conservation project management: minimum 3-5 years.

Preference is given to candidates with the following:

Experience with conservation easements and land acquisitions for conservation purposes.
Working knowledge of regional conservation issues and strategies.
Ability to effectively coordinate and manage a complex multi-organizational project and work effectively with individuals, groups, funders, and units of government.
Persuasive storytelling, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
Understanding and working knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS). Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Ability to work independently, establish work priorities, and manage time effectively; and ability to work as a supportive member of a small team in a collaborative environment.
Personal qualities of growth and learning mindset, integrity, credibility, dependability, and dedication to the mission of HeartLands Conservancy.
Ability to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and interests, to comfortably coordinate and communicate with landowners, staff of public agencies and private foundations, legislators, and municipal leaders.
Experience identifying and evaluating natural resources in the field and interpreting natural resource inventories, maps, and land management plans.

Starting Annual Salary: The starting salary range for this full-time, exempt role is $70,000-$78,000, commensurate with the candidate’s competencies and experience.

Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River (Friends) seeks an inspiring leader, advocate and spokesperson for river and water resources to be its next Executive Director.

Our Organization

Friends is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to keep the North Fork of the Shenandoah River clean, healthy, and beautiful through education, science, advocacy and community action. The North Fork is 116 miles long, with a watershed covering 2,675 square miles of Rockingham, Shenandoah, Frederick and Warren counties in Virginia and Hardy County, West Virginia. Having just celebrated its 35th anniversary of river protection, Friends is financially stable and primed to grow its stewardship efforts.

Principal Responsibilities

Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Directors, the full time Executive Director works with the Board to develop the organization’s vision and strategy and is principally accountable for executing that strategy. The Executive Director is responsible for developing and overseeing programs and projects; executing a fundraising strategy and ensuring effective administration of organizational systems, program development, strategic planning, and fundraising. The Executive Director is also responsible for people leadership, supervising, coaching and coordinating volunteers and paid staff. As funding permits, it is anticipated that the new Executive Director will hire and manage additional staff and build a team to support programs.

Programs

The Executive Director will run and/or oversee programs in several areas:

Science. Coordinate our volunteer Benthic Macro Invertebrate monitoring and environmental science programs.
Education. Lead our Stream Team educational programming in collaboration with local schools and educators.
Regional Partnerships. Coordinate with Friends of Seven Bends State Park, an all-volunteer arm of Friends of the North Fork dedicated to the nearby state park. Carry out Friends’ obligations to the River Heroes quality assurance project plan, a regional stakeholder interview and behavior assessment project. Collaborate with regional governments and nonprofits to advance our mission.
Stewardship. Plan and carry out stewardship programming including occasional river clean ups, riparian buffer maintenance and plantings, etc.
Advocacy. Provide advisory information and recommendations to local town, county, state, and federal decisionmakers; inform and educate the public about watershed issues; and, promote best practices, stewardship, and increased awareness through grassroots engagement.

Compensation

Friends offers a salary between $65,000 and $75,000, commensurate with experience, with bonuses determined on meeting benchmarks for earned grants, philanthropic giving, and successful programming. Friends offers a competitive benefits package.

Employment will be in-person at our Woodstock, Virginia headquarters and will require travel in a personal vehicle, primarily within the Shenandoah Valley region. Approved travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Required Skills, Experience, and Personal Characteristics

Experience and commitment to developing and implementing water resources and river focused programs;
Advocating for best water and river management plans and practices;
Proven ability to build organizations and manage a team effectively;
Knowledge of financial management, including monitoring income and expenses, budgeting, supervision of bookkeeping, and regular financial reporting;
Ability to raise and leverage funds from foundations, corporations, and individuals;
Effective engagement with watershed residents, community and local government leaders, and other river and water resource focused NGOs;
Ability to inspire trust and confidence from all these stakeholders;
Proven ability to collaborate on program design and implementation with public, private and other non-profit sector partners;
Proven communicator with effective writing and public speaking skills;
College level degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.

Preferred Skills, Experience, and Personal Characteristics

Experience in NGO management and building organizations;
Familiarity with bookkeeping computer programs such as QuickBooks;
Familiarity with the effective use of constituent management databases;
Demonstrated experience with fundraising campaigns and/or grant-writing;
Advanced degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.

Desired Start Date: January 15, 2024

Portland Audubon has been a leading voice in conservation for over a century. Through conservation advocacy, environmental education, and wildlife rehabilitation, we promote the understanding, enjoyment, and protection of native birds, other wildlife and their habitats. We are headquartered in a 172-acre wildlife sanctuary next to Forest Park, just minutes from downtown Portland with additional staff on the coast and eastern Oregon.

Portland Audubon believes that inspiring all people to love and protect nature is best achieved when we embrace diversity as a value and practice. In the same way an ecosystem needs many types of plants and wildlife, an organization thrives when it includes a diversity of people and perspectives. We recognize that inequities are widespread and create gaps between our present reality and our aspirations. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment, reflecting the diversity of our community in our board, staff, volunteers, and members; ensuring our internal culture, business practices, and programs are welcoming and advance our diversity goals.

Position Summary

The Klamath Program Coordinator is a mission-driven individual, who will develop and implement strategies that move toward a long-term goal of restoring ecological functionality throughout the Klamath Watershed with a focus on the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge complex that benefits birds, other wildlife, fish and local communities.

This position will report directly to the Assistant Director of Statewide Conservation, and will work as part of a team in close coordination with the Eastern Oregon Biologist and Director of Conservation. The Klamath Program Coordinator will maintain and strengthen Portland Audubon’s existing conservation programs and partnerships, and will find new and innovative ways to expand on these within the Klamath Basin.

This position is required to handle a variety of projects and tasks, interact with volunteers, and represent Portland Audubon’s conservation priorities in the region. A strong commitment to coalition building, grassroots-based advocacy, and environmental justice is essential.

Overarching Goals for the Position

Long-term goal: Restore ecological functionality to the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge complex that benefits birds, other wildlife, fish and local communities.

Short-term goals (within 3-5 years):

Lead the creation and coordination of a Klamath Basin Wetlands Collaborative, which will focus on improving aquatic health and protecting and restoring wetlands, marshes, and the rivers that feed them throughout the Klamath Basin.

Develop momentum with decision-makers at both the state and federal level to direct financial investment and advance policies in furtherance of restoring ecological functionality to the greater Klamath Refuge system.

Establish outreach programs and events with diverse partners to educate the public and build support for restoration of the greater Klamath Refuge system.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

In coordination with the Conservation Department team, develop and lead Portland Audubon’s conservation policy and advocacy agenda in the Klamath Basin.

Develop strong working relationships with national, state and local conservation organizations and partners, Tribes, farmers, ranchers, and refuge staff.

Engage with federal, state and local decision makers on policies, programs, and legislation relevant to regional conservation initiatives and priorities.

Inform regional land management decisions through collaborative processes.

In coordination with the Communications Department, develop relationships and interact with local and statewide media regarding Klamath Basin conservation issues.

In conjunction with the Development Department and Conservation Department, support grant writing, and build and foster relationships with key donors to Portland Audubon’s Klamath Basin initiatives.

In coordination with the Eastern Oregon Biologist, represent Portland Audubon at other regional meetings as necessary.

Qualifications

Master’s degree preferred, bachelor’s degree required. Plus three to five years of experience working in conservation, public administration, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

Experience working with and developing coalitions, collaboratives, and/or partnerships with community groups, agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work with diverse groups of people.

Ability to problem-solve and work well independently.

Ideal candidates will have good knowledge of Klamath Basin ecology, be connected with local communities, and will have lived or currently live in the region.

Must reside in reasonable commuting distance to Klamath Falls, Oregon, or be willing to relocate upon acceptance of a job offer.

This position requires reliable transportation to attend meetings and events (mileage reimbursed at the federal rate).

Working Conditions

Ability to work from a home office (laptop will be provided).

Occasional work in outdoor environments.

Occasional travel required in order to meet with community partners and city officials, possible travel to the state capital, as well as occasional travel to our other locations in Oregon (travel for work will be reimbursed at the standard mileage reimbursement rate).

Why does the job exist?
This position serves as the Regional Wildlife Biologist responsible for coordination and implementation of wildlife management activities within the southwest quadrant of New Mexico. This position conducts or participates in wildlife and habitat management projects to gather biological data by planning studies, capturing, marking, monitoring wildlife populations and habitats, analyzing and interpreting results, completing reports, and delivering presentations. This position works with Department employees, other agencies, and the public, including private landowners, to develop management and hunt recommendations for wildlife populations.
How does it get done?
The Southwest Regional Wildlife Biologist is responsible for coordination or activities related to wildlife management in the southwest quadrant of New Mexico. This position coordinates and implements wildlife management activities and duties in the region including collection of survey data, development of recommendations for hunting rules and regulations, and overseeing landowner systems for elk, deer, and antelope. This can involve proposing and developing new survey methods and models, conducting ground and aerial surveys, analyzing data, making management recommendations, using GIS to develop maps, and providing information to the public. The biologist works directly with agency personnel, public lands managers, and private landowners to communicate the Departments mission and goals to these groups. The biologist applies management strategies to wildlife populations in the southwest region to meet agency goals within the parameters of social and political tolerances in local communities. The biologist coordinates the southwest region personnel involvement in game and furbearer rule development processes. The biologist will compile information to inform the state game commission in rule development process. The biologist educates and informs the public on all facets of wildlife and habitat management through dissemination of wildlife information to hunters, wildlife constituents, and schools.
Who are the customers?
Customers include those interested in outdoor activities and wildlife in particular (hunters, anglers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, citizens of New Mexico).
Ideal Candidate
1) Experience working independently to complete assigned tasks and developing novel approaches and new projects.

2) Experience riding in rotary (helicopter) or fixed-wing aircraft for wildlife surveys. Big game survey experience preferred, but not required (deer, elk, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, oryx, ibex, etc.)

3) Working in backcountry conditions (for example camping, backpacking, hiking, hunting, wildlife tracking, 4×4, mountainous driving, or other related activities.)

4) Experience with ArcGIS or other mapping software.

5) Knowledge and experience in wildlife and/or wildlife habitat management.
Minimum Qualification

Bachelor’s degree in biology, fisheries science/management, wildlife science/management, animal science, forestry, ecology or similar related natural resource degree and two (2) years of experience in the specified fields. Only for use at the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department: Any combination of education from an accredited college or university and related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totally four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.

Since 1976, the National Center for Appropriate Technology or NCAT has been helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources. NCAT is a national, non-profit organization providing trusted, individualized technical assistance, hands-on training opportunities, practical educational resources, and peer-to-peer learning networks on nationally acclaimed projects in food, agriculture, energy, and climate resilience. Headquartered in Butte, Montana, NCAT has offices in 10 states. NCAT works to foster and promote sustainable technologies and systems, especially for the benefit of economically disadvantaged individuals and communities. NCAT is committed to advancing racial equity and inclusion in its work and organization.

NCAT is seeking a full-time Sustainable Agriculture Specialist to join our team in California. The primary duties of the Specialist are to support underserved producers in California in improving soil health and conservation planning on the lands they work, along with integrated crop and livestock production, organic certification, and successful business management. The Specialist will work closely with producers identifying as Latino/a throughout California to evaluate their operations, identify and prioritize on-farm opportunities for improved soil health management, and develop comprehensive conservation plans that meet the standards set forth by NRCS. This position requires strong technical writing and verbal communication skills, fluency in Spanish, respect for and appreciation of culturally, linguistically, and economically diverse populations of farmers, knowledge of USDA organic regulations, regenerative soil management, as well as knowledge of NRCS conservation planning, practice standards and guidelines.

The successful candidate for this position will be required to set up and work from a remote office in one of California’s primary agricultural regions, and be willing and able to travel frequently to farms, events, workshops, and training as needed throughout their specified region. (Candidates located near the NCAT office in Davis, CA have the option of an office located in that shared office space).

QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires a Bachelor’s (BA/BS) degree in soil science, agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field, along with at least three years of relevant professional experience, or an equivalent of education and/or experience. Must be fluent in Spanish, both written and spoken. The ability to communicate in languages spoken by other farmer groups is also desirable. Previous work experience with agricultural industry, extension, or non-profit organizations is preferred.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission;
In-depth knowledge of soil science, the five soil health principles, USDA organic regulations and the certification process, regenerative agriculture philosophies, and NRCS conservation practices;
Experience working with land managers and agricultural producers in conservation planning, whole-farm planning, organic and food safety certifications, soil health and/or carbon farming planning and implementation;
Knowledge of California’s climate, soils, ecology, and farming contexts;
Knowledge of NRCS conservation practice standards and guidelines;
Experience in grant-writing;
Excellent attention to detail, and strong technical writing and communication skills;
Exceptional ability to communicate with and build constructive, professional relationships with farmers, ranchers, community organizations, government agencies, partners, private contractors, resource professionals, and the general public;
Self-directed and organized, with the ability to work independently to meet multiple deadlines;
Ability to coordinate groups and teams, and manage time effectively on multiple projects;
Ability to conduct on-farm field work in challenging terrain, weather, and climatic conditions while carrying up to 30 pounds;
Excellent organizational and time management skills;
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, GIS software, and software such as COMET Farm Planner;
Knowledge of California ecology, native plants, soils, and climates;
Ability to identify and pursue additional or alternative funding sources for priority projects and partnerships;
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting;
Willingness and ability to travel throughout the region, including flexible work hours, evenings, weekends, and some overnight travel.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Promote and support NCAT’s mission;
Conduct outreach to small and historically underserved producers in both English and Spanish, and embed equity within NCAT’s outreach efforts;
Travel frequently to conduct on-farm site visits to evaluate land, soil, water, and other natural resources;
Work closely with farmers to understand their conservation needs, goals, values, resources, and production contexts;
Provide regionally appropriate technical assistance for sustainable conservation practice adoption to producers via in-person site visits, as well as by phone, email, social media, workshops, and field demonstrations;
Develop comprehensive conservation plans that align with NRCS standards and guidelines;
Create educational and outreach materials promoting conservation practices, such as written articles, tip sheets, workshop content, blogs, podcasts, press releases, short educational videos, and public presentations;
Assist in planning educational activities and events such as field days, trainings, and the annual Latino Farmer Conference;
Collaborate and maintain productive and professional relationships with producers, partner organizations, government agencies, research institutions, and other partners in the organic and regenerative agriculture movements and industries;
Cultivate peer-to-peer learning communities for producers and landowners to share knowledge and experiences;
Assist in creating written and visual content for periodic progress reports and press releases;
Maintain an understanding of the full range of compatible agricultural and conservation programs in California, and effectively connect producers to these opportunities;
Maintain an understanding of current and emerging research on organic production, regenerative agriculture, soil health, and conservation practices, and effectively educate producers about these practices;
Maintain detailed records of all conservation plans and activities;
Pursue grants and funding opportunities to support ongoing NCAT mission-based activities.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
This salary is $65,000 – $75,000 annually depending on location, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria and 401(k) plan, and a pleasant, professional environment.

Mass Audubon is seeking a Forest Ecologist to help achieve Mass Audubon’s forest resiliency goals. Mass Audubon’s Action Agenda calls for restoring and enhancing the management of 200,000 acres of public and private forestland in Massachusetts by 2026. The Forest Ecologist will work with the project team to develop and deploy climate-smart forest management programs to support carbon storage and climate adaptation on private and municipal lands.

This is a full-time, year-round position through July 31, 2025. There is an opportunity for the term of this position to extend based on future strategy and funding opportunities.

Application Instructions
Please submit a resume and cover letter with your ADP application.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with Conservation Science staff to develop and implement forest conservation programs in response to priorities identified in strategic plans, department plans, and annual work plans
Work with the Climate-Smart Forestry team to complete grant deliverables on time
Communicate goals of the program, findings, and recommendations in writing and through presentations to landowners, foresters, and the public
Interact with local/state/federal agency, academic, and nonprofit partners on regional forest conservation issues, and in collaboration with internal and external scientists
Work with Mass Audubon colleagues including Senior Conservation Ecologists and Regional Directors to demonstrate climate-smart forest management on wildlife sanctuaries
Pursue new funding opportunities and assist in management of relevant aspects of project budgets and contracts
Perform research-related tasks including literature reviews, computer data analysis including GIS, and occasional field work
Contribute to hiring and supervision of seasonal assistants, interns and volunteers
Pursue relevant training, remain current in aspects of forest conservation, and contribute scientific expertise to research projects

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Must Haves

Degree in forestry, forest management, or related field, and at least two years’ experience in forest management and/or policy
Excellent knowledge of Massachusetts and New England forests, climate change impacts, and conservation and management issues
General knowledge of northeastern United States flora, fauna, and natural communities
Excellent communication (written and oral) skills
Ability to communicate scientific knowledge to lay people and productively engage others in science-based conservation initiatives
Good organizational and management skills
Valid driver’s license, and willingness and ability to travel throughout the state as needed.
Ability to walk/lead walks on rough terrain or trails

Nice to Haves

Advanced degree in forestry, forest management, or related field
Knowledge of forestry cost-share programs
Planning natural lands management for climate change adaptation
Experience planning or implementing climate nature-based solutions
Forming and leading work groups and collaborative efforts including internal and external partners
Use of ArcGIS software for modeling, analysis, planning, and mapping
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Power Point, Excel, Outlook)
Writing and managing grants including federal funding sources

Founded in 2010, Hispanic Access Foundation is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit organization that connects Latinos with partners and opportunities to improve their lives and create an equitable society. Ultimately, we establish bridges of access that provide a path for the development and rise of Latino leaders and elevates their voices in areas where we are underrepresented. Our core values are trust, dedicated, excellence, service to comunidad, and versatility. While Washington, D.C. serves as our headquarters, employees work in a virtual environment.

This is an exciting time for our Conservation Program, as we’re scaling up our geographical focus, growing our network of partnerships, and elevating Latino advocates and leaders for conservation. Hispanic Access Foundation engages a rich ecology of Latino groups – from faith-based communities to journalists to students and nonprofit partners – with the outdoors and environmental stewardship. With an enormously positive public response, one thing is clear to us: when Latinos are given the right engagement opportunities, their passion for conservation and environmental stewardship shines through — and impacts environmental policy.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Ocean Manager will be part of our Conservation program and will play a pivotal role in overseeing and coordinating all aspects of our conservation efforts related to marine ecosystems and ocean and coastal communities and biodiversity. This role is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing projects and initiatives that contribute to the sustainable management and protection of ocean resources. This position reports to the Conservation Director.

ROLE/RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Development and Strategy:

Develop and refine the organization’s ocean conservation strategy and long-term goals.
Collaborate with senior leadership to establish clear program objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Stay updated on the latest scientific research and conservation trends in marine biology and oceanography.

Project Management:

Plan, execute, and oversee a portfolio of ocean conservation projects.
Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, and that they align with the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
Manage grants and deliverables as related to the ocean program.

Partnerships and Collaboration:

Cultivate relationships with government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to foster collaborative efforts in ocean conservation.
Support the development team in seeking funding opportunities and establish partnerships with donors and grant organizations to support the program’s initiatives.

Advocacy and Education:

Engage in advocacy efforts to promote policies and regulations that protect ocean and coastal communities, ecosystems and biodiversity.
Develop educational programs and initiatives to raise public awareness about marine conservation issues.

Spokesperson:

Serve as the subject matter expert for the organization.
Complete interviews on the subject as arranged by the communications team.
Serve as author on subject related op-eds, blogs and other materials.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. biology, oceanography, conservation, environmental science, nonprofit management, or a related field).
3+ years of experience in marine conservation, including project management and team leadership.
Strong understanding of marine ecosystems, ocean conservation issues, and related policies.
Excellent communication and networking skills.
Proficiency in project management, budgeting, and grant writing.
A passion for and commitment to ocean conservation.
Excellent project management and organizational skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
Exceptional interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
Grant writing and fundraising experience is a plus.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be bilingual in English and Spanish.