Job Tag: Conservation

Riverside Park Conservancy is the non-profit conservancy that supports the New York City Parks Department in the care and restoration of Riverside Park, one of New York’s flagship parks and a registered Scenic Landmark.

Riverside Park Conservancy is seeking a Forest Technician to join our team. This role involves physically demanding work and close collaboration with gardeners, volunteers, and the public. The ideal candidate is positive, flexible, and able to engage effectively with others. This position reports directly to a Field Supervisor.
Major Tasks and Responsibilities

Pick up litter in woodland and other areas. Litter removal will be a significant portion of this position.
Remove invasive plant species from wooded areas.
Monitor woodland areas and periodically report on conditions and contractor progress. This may require using a phone-based app for regular reporting.
Keep pathways clear of brush and overgrowth using hedge trimmers or hand pruners.
Pull weeds and pickup leaves as needed.
Work with volunteer groups as needed.
Perform other assigned duties as required.
This position may occasionally require checking on the park’s herd of five goats used for invasive species management. A willingness to work in proximity to goats is preferred.

Qualifications

Minimum one year of experience in horticulture or forest restoration required.
Must have a valid NYS driver’s license.
Position may require mandatory offsite rappelling training to prepare for work on steep slopes.
Must be comfortable working independently in a woodland environment. Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions. Must be comfortable working with power tools.
Must be able to lift 40 pounds with proper tools and work/ maneuver outdoors (in all weather conditions) on the 400-acre property’s often difficult terrain.
Must be able to use a phone-based app for daily work reporting.

Pay Rate: $21-26 per hour

Willowsford Conservancy manages 2,300 acres of land in Loudoun County, Virginia, comprised of a 200-acre farm and 2,100 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands preserved for the Willowsford community, a development of more than 2,700 homes in four neighborhoods. The only “Agrihood” in the Washington, DC area, Willowsford is part of a growing movement for residential environmental sustainability where healthy people and healthy land coexist.

The Land Stewardship Manager is a full-time, exempt position that reports to the Executive Director and supervision of the full-time field staff that implement land stewardship work. The position requires comprehensive field experience in forest, meadow and grassland management, arboriculture, invasive and native species management, habitat restoration, wildlife management, and related outreach and education.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Experience in operations management, crew leadership, and all aspects of land stewardship management.
Experience supervising staff and volunteers.
Current on relevant issues and methods such as sustainable forestry, meadow and grassland management, wetland and water resources, wildlife management, and outdoor recreation.
Hands-on experience in land management, arboriculture, and native and invasive species management.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a variety of groups, including staff, community members, HOA staff, contractors, and volunteers.
Proficiency with MS Office, data and records management, GIS/GPS software and equipment; basic skills using ArcGIS software.
Ability to work effectively in a small team environment to develop strategies, set goals, resolve problems, and implement plans. Ability to work effectively to manage work schedules, projects, budgets and contracts.
Proficiency in safely operating equipment and tools, including chain saws, mowers, tractors, hand tools and common forestry tools.

Qualifications

BS degree in Natural Resources Management, Forestry or a related field or equivalent.
At least 5+ years professional experience in natural resource management (Certified Arborist and Forester credentials preferred).
VA Certified Pesticide Applicator’s license or willingness to obtain license.
Knowledge of Virginia (and preferably Northern Virginia) flora and fauna, ecological communities, and processes; strong field ID skills for native and invasive species.
Good driving record and valid driver’s license.
Successful completion of pre-employment background and reference checks.
Must possess or have the ability to obtain First Aid and CPR certifications within 4 months of employment.
Must possess or be willing to obtain Red Card Certification.

The salary is between $75,000-$85,000 dependent upon experience with potential for an annual bonus.

The Downeast Lakes Land Trust (DLLT) Stewardship & Outreach Manager collaborates with the Executive Director, Advisory Committees, other staff members, and the Board of Directors to enhance the value of DLLT’s 58,220-acre community forest for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. The Manager exhibits strong field skills and a dedication to sustainable natural resource conservation, along with abilities to positively engage and support DLLT’s community. This position is directly supervised by the Executive Director and guided by Board Committees. It encompasses a mix of practical hands-on tasks, office planning, and public-facing responsibilities.

The Stewardship & Outreach Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the community forest, including recreational infrastructure and public engagement activities. This position will work closely with DLLT’s forester to complete annual stewardship reports.

The Manager is a public face of the organization in the community and to statewide conservation groups. They must display the highest standards of professionalism, cooperation, integrity, and enthusiasm and maintain positive relationships with fellow staff, community members, contractors, and our many forestry and conservation partners.

This position is full-time and requires working occasional evenings and weekends, as well as travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Data Collection
Data Management
Map creation
GIS Software like ArcGIS or other industry-standard platforms
Effective communication with partners, contractors, funders, and our community regarding conservation efforts
Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Proven track record in managing projects from start to finish, including budgeting, timelines, and permitting processes
Ability to collaborate with people to achieve common goals
Experience and willingness to conduct field work in variable and adverse weather conditions
Prior experience working with a non-profit organization

The starting salary range offered for this position is $52,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience. The Downeast Lakes Land Trust offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, a health savings account, retirement benefits, annual leave, and sick leave.

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do. We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public.

Your Impact:

As the Vice President of Ecology and Climate, you will lead statewide strategies that shape how The Trustees manage, steward, and restore forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal systems, and farmland. You will guide the organization in science‑based decision‑making and ensure our land management practices develop and reflect best practices in conservation and climate resilience.

The Role:

This role leads the development and execution of organization‑wide ecology, agriculture and climate strategies and oversees major initiatives in habitat protection, climate adaptation, and sustainable land use to address the dual crises of biodiversity loss and climate change. You will be responsible for setting priorities, managing a high‑performing professional team, and collaborating with program, stewardship, and regional leaders.

Required Qualifications:

Master’s degree in environmental science, natural resource management, ecology, conservation biology, or related field.

15+ years of experience in nature conservation, with a minimum of 5-7 years in a leadership role.

Demonstrated expertise in land management practices, conservation strategies, climate adaptation, and environmental policies.

Experience leading strategic initiatives and managing complex portfolios.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Experience in stakeholder engagement and community outreach.

Preferred Qualifications

Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a passion for data-driven decision-making.

Experience managing cross‑functional or matrixed teams.

Experience developing budgets for large, multi‑year conservation or climate initiatives.

Proven success in receiving and administering complex multi-year grants for restoration, habitat management, climate adaptation, and agricultural sustainability/research.

Background in agroecology, climate‑smart agriculture, or applied ecological research.

Salary: $148,750-$191.250

Lomakatsi Restoration Project, a nonprofit forest and watershed restoration organization based in Ashland, Oregon, seeks a qualified forestry professional with demonstrated experience in restoration forestry and project management to join our team in a full‑time position.

Position Summary

The Restoration Forestry Project Manager provides leadership, coordination, and technical oversight for ecological restoration projects—including fuels reduction, prescribed fire preparation, and forest health treatments. The position manages complex, multi-partner projects that integrate applied ecological science with operational forestry and contract implementation.

This role works closely with land management agencies, contractors, and Lomakatsi’s interdisciplinary staff to ensure high-quality project planning, field execution, safety, compliance, and reporting. Success in this position requires strong field leadership, clear communication, and the ability to operate effectively in dynamic outdoor and operational environments.

Required Qualifications

Experience in forestry, ecological restoration, fuels management, or related natural resource fields.
Strong field leadership skills and ability to coordinate crews and contractors.
Ability to interpret silvicultural prescriptions and technical forestry documents.
Experience with oversight and inspection of contracted forestry service providers.
Experience working collaboratively with tribes, agencies, landowners, or partner organizations.
Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
Ability to work outdoors in variable terrain and weather conditions.
Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

BS degree in Forestry or closely related field, or equivalent experience.
Experience with fuels reduction and forest health treatments.
Experience with prescribed fire preparation or operations.
Familiarity with environmental compliance processes and stewardship contracting.
GIS and mapping experience.
Knowledge of regional fire ecology and restoration forestry practices.

Salary range: $60,000 – $80,000 depending on experience

The Conservation Project Manager supports the Charleston office in advancing the Coastal Conservation League’s mission across the region. This role focuses on land use, natural resource management, and community-based advocacy. The Project Manager is responsible for monitoring local government agendas, public notices, and media coverage; attending public meetings and hearings; and representing the organization with stakeholders. The position requires leading grassroots advocacy efforts, building coalitions, fostering community and partner relationships, analyzing policy issues, and effectively communicating organizational priorities. The Project Manager regularly engages with citizens, elected officials, the media, and partner organizations, often during evening or weekend events.

Competencies:

Driven to advance community-based conservation initiatives.
Strong ability to manage multiple complex projects with competing deadlines.
Skilled at building and maintaining coalitions and partnerships across diverse communities.
Excellent communication skills, including the ability to translate complex policy and environmental issues into clear, compelling narratives.
Proficiency in engaging with elected officials, government agencies, and media outlets.
Deep understanding of state and local government processes in South Carolina.
Ability to think strategically, solve problems creatively, and adapt to changing priorities.
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice in conservation work.
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accountability.
Integrity, credibility, empathy, and a deep commitment to the mission and values of the Coastal Conservation League.

Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
3–5 years of professional experience in conservation, policy, advocacy, or community engagement.
Demonstrated passion for environmental advocacy.

Preferred Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience.
Experience leading grassroots advocacy campaigns and/or coalition-based initiatives.
Familiarity with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
Knowledge of land conservation, natural resource management, or related fields.
Experience with environmental education, interpretation, or community outreach.
Proficiency with GIS or related mapping tools.

Salary: $55,000 – $60,000 DOE

Valley County is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as the Wildfire Mitigation Coordinator, a pivotal role focused on safeguarding the county’s private and public property, and its most vulnerable landscapes. Reporting directly to the Wildfire Mitigation Director, the Coordinator acts as a bridge between scientific research and community action. This individual is responsible for fostering a culture of preparedness by integrating technical expertise with proactive public engagement. This is a full-time position with full employee benefits.

Typical Duties & Responsibilities
The Coordinator oversees the lifecycle of fire safety strategies through three essential pillars of responsibility:

Assessment and Strategic Planning
The Coordinator spends significant time in the field conducting comprehensive wildfire risk assessments. They evaluate vegetation types and fuel loads to identify immediate hazards. Leveraging this data, they design sophisticated fuel reduction plans and oversee the maintenance of critical firebreaks. Because environmental conditions are fluid, the Coordinator constantly monitors the effectiveness of these strategies, adjusting plans to meet the evolving needs of the Idaho landscape.

Community Outreach and Education
A primary goal of this position is to empower the residents of Valley County. The Coordinator develops educational materials and leads public outreach programs to demystify wildfire risks. They serve as a lead instructor for local groups, teaching the practicalities of “home hardening” and personal preparedness to ensure that every citizen knows how to protect their property and their neighbors.

Collaboration and Reporting
Success in this role relies on strong partnerships. The Coordinator serves as a vital liaison between local government agencies, fire departments, and various community stakeholders. By ensuring cohesive planning across these groups, they create a unified front against wildfire threats. Administratively, the Coordinator maintains meticulous records, drafting detailed reports on project outcomes and ensuring all efforts remain in strict compliance with environmental regulations.

Typical Qualifications
The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who possesses a unique blend of technical forest management skills and exceptional communication abilities. They are as comfortable analyzing complex GIS mapping data as they are speaking to a crowded town hall. This position also requires an individual who can work independently and exercise initiative under general supervision, using sound judgment to protect the natural beauty and safety of Valley County.

Core Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Environmental Science, or a related field (equivalent field experience will be considered).
Proven experience in wildfire management, ecology, or emergency services, with a deep understanding of environmental regulations.
Proficiency in GIS technology for risk mapping and the ability to interpret complex scientific data.
Outstanding writing and public speaking skills, essential for fostering partnerships and engaging with a diverse public.
The ability to manage multiple field projects simultaneously with high attention to detail.
Possession of a valid Idaho driver’s license.

Pay Rate: $23.96 – $29.04 Hourly

Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change.

About This Position
This position involves working with the Science Coordinator from mid-April through mid-August to assist with all aspects of a long-term horseshoe crab research project on Mass Audubon’s 1,100-acre coastal wildlife sanctuary in South Wellfleet, MA and other sites around the Outer Cape, plus two sites on Barnstable Harbor. Primary duties are working with and scheduling staff and volunteers to carry out spawning surveys at eight sites and conduct USFWS button tagging project. Other duties include entering, managing, and summarizing data, writing an end-of-season report, coordinating and overseeing up to 50+ spawning survey volunteers, assisting with or conducting educational programs for adults and children, and planning and executing activities to celebrate International Horseshoe Crab Day.

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

Bachelor’s Degree in marine biology or related field
Field experience and an interest in marine invertebrates or marine biology
Willingness to spend long hours outdoors in the cold and/or sun and on tidal flats and in salt marshes
Willingness to conduct horseshoe crab surveys at night
Valid driver’s license and access to own vehicle

Nice to Haves

Local housing

Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $18.48-$20.79/hour; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. This position may be eligible for health insurance benefits.

Work Schedule
This position begins in April 2026 and ends in August 2026. The schedule is flexible and based on tides and weather, typically 40 hours per week over five days.

Shared housing may be available at $30.00-$35.00 per week.

Summary: Under direct supervision, responsible for the proper maintenance of various landscapes throughout the zoo. Installs and maintains plants in exhibits, prepares annual flower beds and landscapes, applies pesticides and fertilizers, oversees special projects using proper horticultural methods while considering conservation related programs. Reports to the Director of Plant Conservation. This position is an hourly non-exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act and requires forty hours per the scheduled work week.

Essential Job Functions: Duties will include, but are not limited to monitoring and reporting on the following

Maintains landscapes including timely pest control, watering, weeding, fertilizing and any other activity necessary for proper plant care and maintenance.
Plans, prepares and plants annual flower beds, landscapes and turf areas for the Zoo. Maintains areas throughout the season including weeding, watering, pruning, mulching, fertilization, mowing and trimming, etc.
Coordinates the propagation and purchase of annuals, perennials, tropical plants, and woody plants for seasonal and permanent displays and to maintain and add to plant collections. Keeps appropriate records.
As directed, provides training and direct supervision of seasonal employees, which involves instructing, assigning, reviewing and planning the work of others.
Responsible for the application of pesticides and the keeping of proper records.As directed controls invasive plants.
Assists in the preparation and processing of departmental records and reports.
Maintains water features and fountains as required.
Performs spring/fall clean-upas well as performs snow removal/salt application per the snow removal plan.
Supports the composting operation to EPA requirements including the transportation of yard waste to the compost center and other facilities.
Assists with the coordination, planning, design, purchasing, installation, maintenance, removal, and storage of more than 1,000.000 lights for the annual “Lights Before Christmas” light show. Responsible for supervising evening shift part time and seasonal employees.
Communicates and interact effectively with other departmental personnel and volunteers. Conducts/assist with educational programs and tours as requested.
As directed, manages IPM (Integrated Pest Management)
As directed propagates plants required for browse programs.Assists with the harvest/distribution of browse as needed.

As directed operates manual and automatic irrigation systems.
As directed selects plants materials in landscape areas while giving consideration to all horticultural requirements and native plants that are conducive to the objectives of the project.
Must have the ability to solve problems and take action to correct any deficiencies that occur in assigned areas.
Assist with the fuel acquisition for equipment used in Horticulture.
As directed, plans and provides support for various departments such as Development, Marketing, Visitors Services and Education events and programs such as the Zoo To Do, Pumpkin Path, Zoo Snooze, Weddings.
Assist in moving all stored horticulture materials and equipment to and from storage.Clean and recycle growing containers.
Provide input to Department of Facilities and Planning with plan, design, and implanting new exhibits, buildings, landscapes and facilities with zoo architectural consultants.
Submits horticulture articles for publications, produces educational materials such as horticulture guides, plant label etc.

Minimum Training and Experience:

Associates Degree in Horticulture or related field and three years of horticulture/greenhouse facility experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Horticulture supervisory experience preferred.
Must be 21+ years old.
Must possess or obtain Ohio Pesticide Applicators license.
Must possess a valid drivers’ license and be insurable by the fleet insurance carrier.
The Toledo Zoo is a drug-free workplace, including marijuana.

The School for Field Studies (SFS) creates transformative study abroad experiences through field-based learning and research. Our educational programs explore the human and ecological dimensions of the complex environmental problems faced by our local partners, contributing to sustainable solutions in the places where we live and work. The SFS community is part of a growing network of individuals and institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

Position Summary:
The Lead Waterfront Assistant (Lead WA) provides support in the areas of program delivery, academics, research, group dynamics, logistics, program safety, risk management and site maintenance. The position assists faculty with various research projects, including planning, data gathering, analysis and report writing. The position also assists the Dive Safety Officer / Marine Operations Coordinator in the implementation of the dive and waterfront program. This includes assisting with the safe and prudent conduct of SCUBA, snorkeling, swimming, and boating activities conducted at the Center.

Minimum Qualifications:

Ability to obtain Turks and Caicos Island visa (SFS will assist with completing this process)
BA/BS in Marine Ecology, Marine Resource Management or Marine Policy and Socio-economics
Current First Aid and CPR certifications
Current, active PADI Instructor certification, including insurance
Ability to provide own SCUBA gear, including service receipt for regulators
Experience working with U.S. college-age students in a professional setting
Small boat handling experience
Small boat maintenance trouble identification
Experience organizing and facilitating groups
Clean driving record and ability to operate standard transmission vehicles and boats
Demonstrated ability to work as a team member and independently
Demonstrated commitment to environmental issues
Willingness to work flexible hours and live on site at the field station with a small team of permanent staff, groups of US undergraduate students and visiting researchers or programs

Preferred Qualifications:

Successful completion of SFS or similar international residential program
Basic knowledge of small boat and 4-cycle outboard engine repair
Familiarity with MS Word, Excel, Access, and statistical software skills
In country or regional experience

Benefits

Covered travel from home of record at the beginning and end of employment. Additional travel benefits available following your first year of employment.
On-site room and board (all meals also provided while programs are in session)
Auto-enrollment in an Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance plan effective from the first day of employment
International health insurance reimbursement beginning at 80%, increasing with each year of employment, up to 100%
Option to participate in the SFS 403b retirement plan through Fidelity Investments. After one year of employment, eligible for SFS matching contribution program

Start Date: June 1, 2026