Conservationist

General Summary of Position

Conservationists work independently on planning, designing and supervision of the installation of soil and water conservation projects. Also provide assistance to units of government and landowners on projects to improve the management of, and provide protection of, land, water and related natural resources. Responsible for providing truthful and accurate written and verbal communications. This position works with clients that include farmers, engineers, developers, heavy equipment operators, property owners and individuals concerned about water quality. Primary roles may include one of more of the following:

Agricultural site evaluations and Best Management Practice (BMP) implementation
Manure hauling audits and Nutrient Management Plan reviews
Land disturbance and shoreline erosion evaluations for BMP recommendations
Invasive species inventory and control
Stormwater plan reviews and field inspections
Groundwater source and threat evaluations
Nonmetallic mine reclamation program implementation

Essential & General Job Functions

The Duties and Responsibilities listed are performed collectively by all the Conservationists. However, each individual Conservationist staff person is assigned their duties and responsibilities, but not all the duties are assigned to each of the Conservationists.

Essential Job Functions

Conduct landowner/operator contacts promoting, planning and implementing participation in Soil and Water Conservation Department (SWCD) conservation programming. Programming examples include but are not limited to agriculture water pollution control, non-agricultural water pollution control, nutrient management, storm water runoff control, wildlife crop damage, water quality monitoring, mine reclamation, invasive species control, beach water quality abatement, well abandonment and native tree and shrub planting.
Perform onsite inspections and reviews of properties to determine resource protection need. Plan, survey and design required best management practices. Inspect and monitor installation of best management practices. Prepare landowner/property conservation plans.
Prepare grant applications for SWCD projects and operation. Manage grant progress and complete reports.
Prepare landowner cost-share contracts. Manage grant progress, determine and prepare cost-share payments. Monitor landowner contract compliance.
Determine land operator and site compliance with environmental and conservation regulations. Proceed with and manage enforcement activities.
Prepare and review non-metallic mine reclamation plans and implementation thereof.
Conduct ground and surface water quality and watershed studies & monitoring projects.
Conducts conservation outreach and information/education activities including presentations, posters, field trips and training programs.

General Job Functions

Update and maintain ongoing status landowner and project files.
Prepare and submit monthly time reports for proper grant funding.
Attend and participate in governmental meetings.
Participate in continuing education and training sessions.

Training, Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Required Training and Experience

A Bachelor of Science Degree in the natural resource field of soils, geology, forestry, hydrology, wildlife ecology, natural resource management or environmental science; or considered would be an exceptional candidate with an Associate Degree in one of the areas listed above with four or more years of practical work experience in the use and management of natural resources.
May be required to hold/obtain certifications specific to the duties assigned.
Current valid driver’s license.

Preferred Training and Experience

Minimum 1-year experience with GIS/Arc View and/or CAD.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required (Assigned Duties Specific)

Ability to read, comprehend, and communicate, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to survey, plan, design, and supervise the construction of conservation and water quality practices.
Skill in using and interpreting aerial photos, soil surveys, topographic maps, geological and other resource information in hard copy and digital format.
Knowledge of Local, County, State and Federal laws on conservation and natural resource protection and related topics.
Capable of writing technical and non-technical assessment and investigative reports.
Ability to work with limited direct supervision and make decisions accurately and rapidly.
Ability and skill in the use and operation of computers, preferably knowledge working with Microsoft® software.
Ability to use tact and courtesy in maintaining an effective working relationship with department employees, county supervisors, county officials, and general public.

Land Protection Program Manager

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive.

The VVCR Land Protection Program Manager coordinates and implements a comprehensive program on the Eastern Shore of Virginia to protect and manage prioritized natural areas, habitat and marsh migration zones using the full range of protection tools, including gift, easement, purchase, lease, registry, and conservation brokerage. They will be required to orchestrate and/or play an active role in complex cooperative projects with federal, state, and local government agencies as well as with private sector non-profit conservation organizations and other partners as appropriate. They are responsible for implementing and achieving the Conservancy’s land protection priorities by representing the Conservancy in relationships and negotiations with government agencies and advisory committees. They assist in securing public and private funds for land protection. They research land ownership information for tracts identified as potential acquisition projects and prepare project packages as appropriate. They respond to protection inquiries and screen potential protection projects. The Land Protection Program Manager will coordinate the Conservancy’s monitoring of fee lands and conservation easements on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and will
serve as lead/member of the Virginia Eastern Shore Conservation Alliance, the Eastern Shore Rail Trail Foundation and Steering Committee, as well as work as part of a professional, multi-disciplinary internal team at the VVCR and within the Virginia Chapter of TNC. They will work to increase collaboration with TNC Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay Program and will assist the VVCR Director in encouraging local policies that facilitate land conservation, habitat restoration and coastal adaptation and resilience. They may manage staff and volunteers to ensure accomplishment of protection goals.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• Ability to represent and lead TNC’s land protection priorities with local, state and federal partners as well as with the community of the Eastern Shore of Virginia.

• Ability and willingness to travel frequently and on short notice, sometimes on weekends.
• Negotiate real estate transactions, which can bind the Conservancy legally and financially.
• Plan and direct work on protection projects.
• Maintain records related to land transactions.
• Recruit and supervise staff and interns as needed or as funding is available; responsible for performance management, training, and development.
• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• BA/BS degree in natural resources management, conservation, business, law or another related field of study and 3 years of related work experience in real estate, real estate finance, fundraising or other related experience.
• Experience in managing multiple projects and timelines.
• Experience negotiating complex agreements.
• Supervisory experience.
• Experience working with computers, including GIS and database management.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 3 to 5 years of related work experience in conservation, real estate, fundraising or other related experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.
• Knowledge of current trends and strategies in conservation and land protection.
• Knowledge and experience with culture of Eastern Shore of Virginia.
• Successful experience in developing, directing and managing multiple projects and timelines.
• Ability to motivate, lead, set objectives and manage performance.
• PC familiarity, including GIS, Microsoft Office, and on-line database knowledge in order to maintain records related to land transactions.
• Ability to draft, review, and edit documents required for real estate sales, purchases, lease, conservation easements, and other documents involved in such transactions.
• Experience in document research in Office of the Clerk of Circuit Court. (deeds, wills, surveys, maps)
• Experience working successfully with diverse groups of people including landowners, government representatives, donors, board members and the general public.
• Experience in contract negotiations and ability to bring negotiations to closure.
• Experience in construction contracting and management is a plus.
• Experience in grant writing and knowledge of land conservation grant programs at state and federal level.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult and sometimes hazardous terrain.

To apply for job ID 52573, submit your materials online by using the Apply Now button at https://careers.nature.org/ by 11:59 PM EST on January 6, 2023.

Oregon Director of Conservation

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive.

The Oregon Director of Conservation (ODC) will provide strategic leadership and support for all the Conservancy’s conservation work in Oregon, which includes multiple climate strategies, as well as strategies to conserve healthy lands, water and ocean. They will lead a team of over 25 highly experienced conservation professionals across the state, including 5-6 direct reports. The ODC reports to the Oregon State Director and as member of TNC Oregon’s Executive Leadership Team, they have shared responsibility for coordinated program alignment, management, and success across all of TNC Oregon.

The ODC will cultivate a collaborative team environment among conservation staff and ensure effective coordination with external affairs, philanthropy, stewardship and other core function teams to achieve TNC Oregon’s strategic goals as outlined in the current 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. This will include strengthening internal systems that foster highly effective and trusting teams with clear roles, inclusive and effective decision-making, strong communication, and adaptive learning and management of strategies within a dynamic work environment. They will provide strategic leadership to staff and support targeted annual and multi-year outcomes related to the conservation strategies, while cultivating a positive, collaborative and outcomes-driven culture. The ODC will be responsible for supporting staff in developing equitable approaches and outcomes in conservation and science efforts and that support Indigenous lands and communities. The ODC will work intentionally with the Executive Leadership Team to model the Conservancy’s values and competencies to nurture a workplace culture of safety, inclusion and belonging for all staff, volunteers and board members.

In addition, the ODC will help to establish and amplify the Conservancy’s role as a major conservation partner by serving as a senior level contact to government agencies, other conservation and environmental justice organizations, Tribal governments and communities, foundations and the research/academic community. They will engage partners to build key influential support for local, state, Western Division, and/or national conservation efforts. They may negotiate complex and innovative solutions with government agencies, major institutions, and landowners to conserve and protect natural communities, and develop and implement cutting edge conservation strategies. The ODC will work closely with Conservancy staff in other states to implement multi-state conservation efforts.
WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for a career that helps people and nature to thrive together? Are you passionate about leading others to do their best work? We’re looking for a collaborative leader, skilled relationship-builder and influential communicator to help us create a better future for our climate, lands, waters and communities. You will work with innovative and passionate colleagues and a wide range of partners – including environmental justice organizations and Indigenous communities – to advance conservation and public policy solutions in Oregon.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING

Bachelor’s degree and at least 12 years’ experience in conservation practice or equivalent combination of education and experience; conservation practice experience may include work in climate or environmental advocacy or science, environmental health, or related fields.
Experience in leading and supporting multidisciplinary teams across reporting relationships to implement multiple projects of strategic importance, including supervising professionals, managing finances, allocating resources, and coordinating the work of partners while meeting deadlines.
Supervisory experience, including motivating, leading, setting objectives and managing performance.
Experience in building relationships with non-profit partners, community groups, Tribal nations and Indigenous communities, corporate partners, elected officials, government agencies, and/or other key partners.
Experience working with current trends and practices in conservation. Conservation may include work in climate or environmental advocacy or science, environmental health, or related fields.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Demonstrated commitment to incorporating diversity, equity and inclusion into programs, teams and project outcomes.
Demonstrated understanding of the importance of policy and social behaviors to influence conservation outcomes.
Multi-lingual and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
Master’s degree and 12-15 years’ experience in conservation practice or equivalent combination of education and experience; conservation practice experience may include work in climate or environmental advocacy or science, environmental health, or related fields.
Experience in delivering complex communications and presentation in front of large audiences.
Experience in developing program-wide strategies and policies.
Experience developing practical applications of scientific concepts and technical innovations for conservation purposes.
Communicating clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English and other relevant languages.
Experience in working with legislative bodies, or with developing or advocating for legislation or public policy.

To apply for job ID 52594, submit your materials online by using the Apply Now button at https://careers.nature.org/ by 11:59 PM EST on 1/4/2023.

Wildlife Technician Coordinator

The Wildlife Technician Coordinator will work within wildlife ecology and stream restoration as a member of the Tulalip Beaver Project team with Tulalip Tribes Wildlife Program staff. The Wildlife Technician Coordinator will work on all aspects of the project, including oversight of seasonal technicians, beaver trapping, handling, release, environmental monitoring, site assessment, data collection, management and analysis. Primary duties will consist of training and organizing the day to day activities of seasonal staff, handling wild animals and collecting data in remote areas of the Snohomish and Stillaguamish Watersheds in Western Washington.

COMPENSATION: $24.10 hr.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION:

High School Diploma or GED required.

Bachelor Degree in an Environmental field

MINIMUM RELATED EXPERIENCE:

One (1) year working experience related to wildlife biology, habitat restoration, aquatic ecosystems or natural resources.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/PREREQUISITES

Washington State Driver’s License and must adhere to the Motor Vehicle Regulations (Abstract Required).

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: This is a regular Full-Time position

Conservation Officer I

The State of New Hampshire, NH Fish and Game Department has a full-time vacancy for Conservation Officer I.

Summary: To contribute to on-going agency goals for the development and maintenance of favorable outdoor recreational conditions by enforcing state laws, rules, and regulations concerning fish, wildlife and marine resources, off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRVs) and snowmobiles, while also conducting search and rescue operations in the woodlands and inland waterways of the State.

Responsibilities:

Identifies violations/criminal offenses and enforces applicable laws, rules and regulations concerning wildlife, natural resources, off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRVs), snowmobiles, motor vehicles, boats, other outdoor recreational activities and public safety offenses. Pursues and apprehends violators to ensure public safety and protection of wildlife habitats.

Patrols the roads, waters, and woodlands in an assigned geographic area to include foot patrols in remote areas and patrols via the operation of off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRVs), snowmobiles, watercraft, and other necessary equipment. Such operation can involve emergency situations involving high speeds while in pursuit and/or hazardous conditions.

Investigates and apprehends violators, questions witnesses, procures evidence to include blood draws and arrests suspects, forcibly if necessary, using handcuffs and other restraints; subdues resisting suspects using maneuvers, approved weapons, and hands and feet in self-defense. Determines when force is required, to include the use of deadly force.

Writes investigative and other reports including accident diagrams, citations, affidavits, complaints and warrants; recommends legal action when appropriate, prosecutes criminal cases in court and testifies as a witness when necessary.

Operates patrol boats in the Atlantic Ocean, in all weather conditions, and boards commercial and recreational vessels to inspect for compliance with federal and state fishing regulations.

Responds to and investigates off-highway recreational vehicle (OHRV) and snowmobile accidents, hunting-related incidents, including shootings; and provides emergency medical treatment to injured people when necessary, often in remote areas to include the backcountry and mountainous locations.

Handles, drags, lifts and transports live, dead and diseased wildlife, euthanizing and disposing of as appropriate, and investigates cases where there may be a danger to public health. Demonstrates the proficient use of various handguns, shotguns, rifles and other firearms in a variety of body positions under stressful situations to include aiming, discharging loading and unloading of firearms.

Engages in search and rescue missions to include carrying out injured or deceased individuals and providing emergency medical treatment, often in remote and/or mountainous locations. These rescues are carried out in all seasons and specialized equipment is often required. Maintains required emergency first responder training for such rescue/emergency situations.

Supervises and trains Probationary Conservation Officers, Deputy Conservation Officers and volunteers on search and rescue; GPS and map skills; evidence collection; search warrants; details; life saving techniques; surveillance skills; and on other topics necessary to be a successful Conservation Officer.

Speaks and provides education and training on safety and conservation related rules, laws, procedures and practices to sporting organizations, educational institutions, OHRV/Snowmobile Safety & Hunter Safety Education Courses and interested public and private organizations while gaining important input from constituents to advocate for department’s mission, goals and objectives, to achieve voluntary compliance, and to enhance agency effectiveness.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: OFFICAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS, DD 214 FORMS OR FULL TIME POLICE CERTIFICATION REQUIRED

Education: Associate’s degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited institute of higher education.

Experience: No experience required.

OR

Education: High school diploma or high school equivalency credential.

Experience: Two years of full-time employment as a certified police officer in a recognized jurisdiction or two years of experience in the military on full-time active duty with an honorable discharge.

License/Certification: Upon appointment, candidates must obtain a New Hampshire driver’s license in compliance with the state statutes governing driver’s licenses and registrations.

Stewardship Coordinator

The Lower East Side Ecology Center offers free public compost collection and education, electronic waste recycling, stewardship of public open space, and environmental education. Our programs focus on offering opportunities for all New Yorkers to learn about environmental issues facing NYC and to take responsibility for solving those problems.

THE POSITION: Stewardship Coordinator

The Ecology Center seeks someone who is deeply motivated to inspire environmental stewardship and volunteerism within people of all ages and skills. The stewardship coordinator will be responsible for organizing and carrying out stewardship activities such as: gardening, creation of green infrastructure, wildlife habitat restoration, and street tree care. This person will also be responsible for launching our new Horticulture Workforce Training Program that introduces youth to sustainable horticultural practices. The Stewardship Coordinator must be committed to environmental justice and be comfortable interacting with a wide-range of individuals from a variety of social, ethnic and organizational backgrounds.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Collaborate with leadership to guide the direction and vision for the environmental stewardship program
Plan for and carry out environmental stewardship activities for groups of all ages and skills and varying in size from 5-100 participants. This includes overseeing communication with groups, acting as day-of point person/leader, demonstrating horticultural practices, organizing tools, track attendance, and ensuring safety.
Work with staff to launch the Horticulture Workforce Training Program. This includes planning tasks such as: developing curriculum and coordinating with program partners.
Conduct Horticulture Workforce Training Program in spring 2023. This includes responsibilities such as: onboarding trainees, conducting training days, and acting as a mentor to the trainees.
Coordinate specific stewardship activities with Ecology Center staff, local park managers, community groups
Respond to general volunteer inquiries and serve as a main point of contact for those interested in volunteering.
Develop and foster relationships with community partners and serve as a representative of the Ecology Center in the local neighborhood and within the broader NYC environmental stewardship community.
Work with Development team to plan and secure funding for stewardship related projects and programs
Track participation and programmatic data and write program reports as needed
Assist with other Ecology Center programs and activities as needed
Continuous development of knowledge and skills in volunteer management through webinars and workshops

CORE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum of one year work experience related to environmental stewardship coordination or similar work.
Strong familiarity with urban horticulture or gardening practices and working knowledge of NYC native plants and common weeds.
Team player that is self-directed with a can-do attitude, organized, and able to manage multiple projects
Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
Ability to work with and effectively communicate with a wide range of audiences including: staff, community partners, volunteers, youth and adult participants, the general public
Enthusiasm to work outdoors in all weather conditions,
Complete physically demanding tasks and be comfortable handling items up to 50 lbs.
Flexibility to work on weekends and evenings. Varies based on the season, but could range from 1-3 weekend days/month.
Comfortable with Mac OS, Microsoft Office, and Google Drive apps
A valid driver’s license is required and willing to drive on NYC streets
Willing to operate a cargo bike on NYC streets (training will be provided)

ADDITIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE PREFERRED

At least two years of higher education experience
Bilingual skills
Comfortable with being flexible and adapting to change
Demonstrated mentorship and leadership skills

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

This is a full-time, salaried position. The salary range for the position is $50,000 to $58,000, commensurate with skills and experience. The Ecology Center contributes $880/month towards a health care plan and offers a 401K matching plan. New employees are offered 15 days of vacation, 5 personal days and 5 safe/sick days.

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified candidates should submit a resume and cover letter that addresses why you’re interested in the position, how your experiences relate to the job responsibilities, and why you would like to work for the Ecology Center.

Application materials should be combined into a single pdf file and sent to in**@**************er.org with “Stewardship Coordinator – YOUR NAMEâ€ in the subject line.

Deadline to apply: January 5, 2023

No phone calls please.

The Lower East Side Ecology Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

Manager of Forest Carbon Modeling

General Summary: Anew seeks a Manager of Forest Carbon Modeling to play a role in the Anew forest carbon modeling team and support project implementation efforts in the forest carbon space. The successful candidate will have a unique mix of technical and practical skills, is a fast learner, and is passionate about the forest carbon space. Day-to-day responsibilities will cover a broad spectrum of activities ranging from developing silvicultural prescriptions, optimizing project baseline harvest schedules, or participating in field verifications, to articulating project quantification methods for verifiers. The ideal candidate will be comfortable spending most of their time in the office but will enjoy occasional opportunities to work in the woods. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically skilled forestry professional seeking a dynamic position in the center of the forest carbon market.

Primary Responsibilities and Competencies*:

Support forest carbon modeling efforts for both voluntary and compliance offset projects
Collaborate with technical team to balance multiple projects while meeting strict timelines
Modify and improve modeling processes using various tools (e.g., R, SQL, ArcGIS, Excel, VBA)
Prepare inventory and other data needed to model voluntary and compliance forest offset projects
Conduct silvicultural research and conduct interviews with local experts across project regions
Develop project and baseline harvest prescriptions while optimizing credit generation
Perform statistical analyses and database management of forest inventories
Draft carbon project documentation
Manage and edit spatial files for projects
Respond to verifier, registry, and/or CA ARB findings/questions
Compare financial returns of various forest management strategies
Prepare written project documents for verifiers, managers, and clients
Less than 10% travel is required, primarily to team events and/or conferences

Required Education, Experience and Certification:

Master’s or PhD degree in forestry or environmental science
Advanced proficiency using Microsoft Excel, database manipulation programs, and spatial data manipulation
Experience in forest biometrics and statistical analysis
Ability to develop scripts in R, perform basic debugging, and a identify/streamline/automate processes
Experience in application of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) programs (e.g., ArcGIS software)
Experience using at least one peer-reviewed forest growth simulation tool that applies to at least one North American forest type (e.g., Forest Vegetation Simulator, OSM)
Experience with forest inventories, forest management plans, and timber harvest plans
Experience cleaning and wrangling data, identifying issues, and troubleshooting data
Experience communicating in a team environment

Preferred Education, Qualifications & Experience:

PhD degree in forestry or forest sciences
>2 years of experience in a forestry-related occupation
Experience working in a variety of North American forest types
Proven ability to develop advanced scripts in R for data analysis and data manipulation
Advanced knowledge of forest biometrics
Advanced knowledge of at least one growth and yield model
Advanced proficiency using Microsoft Excel, databases, and ArcGIS
Experience in the application of remote sensing for forestry
Experience in linear programming and optimization, in the context of harvest scheduling
Familiarity with voluntary/compliance forest carbon protocols in North America
Experience developing and/or implementing forest management plans and/or harvest plan design
Experience using databases, including experience using SQL (Structured Query Language) to query databases, analyze data, and create reports
Experience working with version control software in a team environment (e.g., Github)
Strong interest in climate change and environmental issues

Skills:

Advanced experience with coding and debugging in at least one programming language; R is preferred
Advanced Excel Skills
Experience using and querying databases is preferred
Experience cleaning and wrangling data
Experience using forest management plans and/or harvest plan design
Experience using and calibrating growth and yield models to model forest growth
Experience in ArcGIS mapping and analysis
Familiarity with GitHub in a team environment
Skilled in statistical analyses
Experience working and communicating in a team environment
Highly self-motivated

Conservation Aide

Summary Description

Multiple positions are available for the summer of 2023. These positions will offer opportunities to gain knowledge and experience in natural resource management and plant identification, equipment operation, and park facility and grounds maintenance. The positions start May 15, 2023 and end approximately August 18, 2023. Positions are based at McFarland Park in Ames or at Hickory Grove Park in Colo. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Operations Supervisor.

Hours will average 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday (may include some weekends and holidays if needed).

Breakdown of Available Positions:
Park Operations:

McFarland and Hickory Grove Park: park management and maintenance

Natural Resources:

Hickory Grove Park: natural resource management and restoration

Job Duties/Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Performs work such as mowing, string trimming, chainsaw operation, litter control, general carpentry, trail maintenance, prairie and forest restoration and invasive species removal.
Reports and assists in repairing safety hazards.
Offers assistance and information to the public.
Assists staff with area monitoring.
Maintains working relationships with other employees and the public.
Attends mandatory safety training and staff meetings.
Performs related tasks as assigned.

Work will involve the operation of UTVs, mowers/trimmers, chainsaws, truck/trailers, tractors, and power tools.

Qualifications

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have a current, valid driver’s license. Natural Resource Conservation Aides must have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicator’s certification within the first month of employment.

San Luis Valley Project Manager

Trout Unlimited seeks to hire a self-motivated and highly-capable person to identify, plan, and implement projects to benefit aquatic resources and native and wild fish population in the Rio Grande Basin of Colorado. Projects may include removal of fish barriers, irrigation improvements, water rights transactions, water conservation efforts, stream restoration, Rio Grande cutthroat reintroduction and other cooperative measures that protect or restore fish habitat. The project manager will work cooperatively with partners with diverse backgrounds and interests. The project manager will be expected to secure grants and raise funds to cover project costs.

Competitive candidates for this position will need to demonstrate strong project management skills, and an understanding of river restoration, water rights, hydrology, ecology, working agriculture and partnership-building. This position involves frequent work with agricultural water users on projects that provide mutual benefit to stream health and agricultural operations, and the ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong ability to work cooperatively with agricultural producers. This position will require working in the high-alpine backcountry, in extremely remote areas with occasional overnight primitive camping necessary.

The position will be based in the San Luis Valley, Colorado.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and maintain relationships with water users, the agricultural community, and agency staff.
Work closely with partners including the USFS and CPW to implement projects that benefit aquatic resources and fish populations.
Promote and implement farming and ranching practices that enrich soils, enhance biodiversity, restore watershed health, and improve overall ecosystem function.
Raise funds as necessary to design and construct projects.
Manage grant application and reporting requirements.
Manage complex budgets with multiple funding sources.
Contract with engineering consultants and contractors to design and construct restoration projects.
Write grant proposals to local, state, and federal agencies, as well as foundations.
Monitor project results, including fish usage of improved habitats.
Represent Trout Unlimited staff on local committees or stakeholder groups.
Attend Trout Unlimited chapter and council functions where appropriate.
Advocate for fish-friendly water management.

This is not an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities.
Requirements

A B.S or M.S. degree in biology, ecology, hydrology, engineering, or a related field.
Four years of relevant experience in watershed restoration, fisheries biology, environmental policy, or similar field.
Excellent interpersonal and communications skills.
Professional experience working with landowners, resource managers, and other interested parties in a collaborative setting.
Familiarity with regenerative agriculture principles and practices and ability to implement these strategies in coordination with partners.
Experience with grant writing.
Strong analytical skills.
Ability to problem solve and think creatively to achieve a conservation mission.
Strong time-management and organizational skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
Ability and willingness to travel. Valid driver’s license and vehicle are required. 4×4 vehicle is beneficial.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Staff and leadership at TU understand that life outside of work is important to personal health, and we strive to create a healthy and family-friendly atmosphere. This is a full-time position with a generous benefits package. The salary range is $53,000 to $61,000 annually.

Executive Director

Friends of the San Juans (Friends), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is seeking an experienced, passionate, and charismatic environmental leader to continue its strong community leadership in stewardship and legal protections of the land and waters of the San Juan Islands archipelago and the Salish Sea.  Friends is a high performing science-driven environmental advocacy organization with a projected $1.3M operating budget for 2023, 10 staff/~7.5-8 FTEs, and a 40-year+ history of promoting ecosystem stewardship and accountability to relevant policies and laws. Through promoting and informing science-driven policy, the Executive Director will lead and strengthen a small yet highly effective staff team and board of directors at a critical time in history. This unique leadership opportunity will allow for a blending of your passion for conservation and restoration of the lands, species, and waters of the Pacific Northwest with the chance to personally experience life in the beauty and vibrancy of one of the most unique and special places in the contiguous United States.  

 

Background:

Friends of the San Juans is an innovative and effective force and catalyst for positive change, with expertise in shoreline and nearshore habitats, vessel traffic risks and oil spill prevention, land use, and climate change.

A citizen group formed Friends of the San Juans in 1979 to help preserve the beauty, character, and wildness of the San Juan Islands in the face of increasing development. To protect the islands’ most special places and guide growth, Friends spearheaded the County’s first Comprehensive Land-use Plan. Today, Friends envisions and strives for a healthy economy and environment, renewable energy, abundant resource lands, strong island culture, recreation, and good governance.   

 

The Organization & Programs:

The mission of Friends is to protect and restore the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea for people and nature. High priorities for the organization are thoughtful, science-based decision-making about San Juan County land use and habitat protections, and the strengthening of the regional ecosystem.

Friends’ primary goals are to:

  • Foster wild and healthy shorelines;
  • Promote thriving and sustainable communities;
  • Conserve forests, farmlands, freshwater and prairie habitats; and,
  • Ensure the health of marine ecosystems in the Salish Sea.

Thanks to the dedication of its members and supporters, Friends has come a long way from its roots in growth management and has expanded its actions to include research on marine shorelines and responses to sea level rise; restoration actions for forage fish and juvenile salmon; and advocacy for oil spill prevention and the recovery of Southern Resident orcas.

Key organizational priorities for 2021-2025, identified in the draft strategic plan developed through the last year, include:

  • Launch new research, on-the-ground projects, and policy work to improve ecosystem health and resilience;
  • Increase impact and effectiveness as protectors of the San Juan Islands and Salish Sea;
  • Expand education programs for K-12 and community audiences;
  • Integrate best practices of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice into the work and organization;
  • Center climate action as guiding principle across programming;
  • Increase scope, impact and effectiveness of communications and messaging; and,
  • Grow organizational capacity to respond to current and emerging issues.

To achieve overall impact, Friends uses science, education, community engagement, field research, and advocacy to identify and advance solutions that support people and the natural environment. The organization collaborates with tribal and other governmental agency leadership, elected officials, agency and department staff at the local, regional, state, and provincial levels, business leaders, conservationists, other environmental nonprofit organizations, and individual property owners to protect this transboundary region’s cultural and ecological resources. Friends also participates in regional vessel traffic risk assessments and research, planning, and recovery efforts for orca, salmon, forage fish, eelgrass, and kelp. 

For additional information about Friends of the San Juans, see the organization’s website:  www.sanjuans.org.

 

The Position and Key Priorities:

The new Executive Director (ED) will inherit a successful organization with strong community support.  The ED will serve as the face of the organization so it can grow and expand its reach and impact as it passes its first half-century milestone successfully protecting and conserving the land, water, and sea. In the first few months, the new ED will strengthen Friends’ existing partnerships and will be expected to introduce themselves and begin to develop core relationships with key stakeholders, including engaging with the communities of the San Juan Islands, Salish Sea and tribal sovereign nations and First Nations, and become known as a member of the community through engagement with Friends’ members, donors, community partners, local, tribal, and state governments, and other groups. 

With such relationships underway, the new ED’s first 18-24 months should focus on the following top strategic priorities which have been identified by the Friends’ board of directors and staff:

  • Refine and strengthen Friends’ strategic direction.  Continue to refine, finalize, and execute a holistic strategic plan and develop annual action plans, working closely with staff and board of directors, including achieving clarity around policy, advocacy, and litigation strategies and climate change work.  Building upon work and existing momentum, the ED will mobilize staff and board together around shared mission/purpose and direction.
  • Support and strengthen the board of directors.  Work closely with the community-based board leadership as a ‘co-creator’ to strengthen and diversify the board of directors through board management, engagement, recruitment, and development, so that the board evolves towards a ‘best practices’ governing board. Strengthen board-staff communications and alignment to support and expand the organization.
  • Build a strong and revitalized organizational culture, including supporting strategies for effective in-office and virtual work environments.  Work creatively to develop and offer more in-person connections among community stakeholders.  This task may involve significant inter-island travel by the new ED.
  • Continue and strengthen fundraising. Support board and staff to develop and roll out a strong and sustaining culture of philanthropy.  Play a leading role in developing a diversified funding base.
  • Support and champion a strong and committed staff team through leadership, coaching and development.
    • Get to know the staff professionally and personally, including understanding their journey of the past several years.
    • Build staff cohesion towards common goals, including strengthening collaboration, effectiveness, resolving communications barriers, while also recognizing unique roles, work.
    • Help staff attain work-life balance. 
  • Increase and strengthen organizational brand awareness and public positioning so that Friends is known as a protector and defender of science-based habitat and ecosystem planning and decisions, and as an asset for the community. Strengthen and expand partnerships and leverage support for Friends’ work both within and outside of the San Juan Islands and Salish Sea.

 

Essential Experience, Skills, and Qualifications: 

Friends of the San Juans is seeking an experienced, passionate, and charismatic environmental leader with a depth of experience in nonprofit board and staff leadership and management, strategy, policy and advocacy, community relations, planning, budgeting, and fund development.  The ideal candidate will be excited to play an on-the-ground leadership role in the local community and have a collaborative and supportive communications style with demonstrated professional and personal judgment to effectively relate with the media, elected officials, and the diverse local community.

Essential qualifications include:

  • Demonstrated advocacy experience and success, including translating scientific information into understandable narratives for laypeople and policymakers. Can handle complex political issues with diplomacy.  Experience and comfort with litigation strategies, science, laws related to environmental/habitat/species protection, shoreline and ocean/water protection, and San Juan Islands/Salish Sea ecology are pluses.
  • Strong political and social skills to navigate and develop relationships in a small community with local political complexities. 
  • A collaborative, inclusive and supportive leadership style; willing to listen to others even in disagreements and is empathetic and values diverse opinions and can facilitate and lead to clear decisions.
  • Highly strategic perspective:  Experience seeing the big picture and how smaller issues and factors relate to each other and the whole. Track record of issue/project prioritization leading to winning campaigns and outcomes.
  • A track record of successful fundraising including major individual gifts and a proven ability to build and execute a culture of philanthropy. Preferred experience with successful government.
  • A minimum of 8 years’ nonprofit organizational and financial management experience that demonstrates the ability to successfully manage and sustainably grow a ~$1.3M budget.
  • An excellent communicator, with public relations skills including media relations, public testimony, essays, and op-eds, communicating with the local community, and speaking before large groups. Excellent written and oral communications. Experience developing messaging for and communicating with different audiences.
  • Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion work, including participation in relevant committees and trainings and a deep understanding of their own race, culture, ability, gender, age, and other identity, and how it relates to the staff, the community, and the world at large.
  • Familiarity with the environmental, political, and cultural issues of the Pacific Northwest, including tribal relations, are desirable.
  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental policy or related field required, advanced degree in relevant field preferred.

 

Working Conditions:

The office of the Friends of the San Juans is in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island in the state of Washington.  Significant regional travel required, inter-island in the San Juan archipelago, and within the broader Salish Sea community.  Some national and international travel (Canada) expected.

 

Compensation:

$105,000-$130,000 depending upon experience.

Benefits include health, dental, vision insurance for the employee, reimbursement for air ambulance insurance, up to 5% of salary employer contributions to a retirement plan, 13 paid holidays, 3 weeks’ vacation, 2 weeks of medical leave, a cell phone allowance, and flexibility in employee work schedules. Relocation/housing stipend available.

 

Application Process:

The Friends of the San Juans has engaged Jan Glick & Associates to facilitate this search. 

To apply, interested candidates should e-mail their resume and cover letter to:

Fr*************@******ck.com

Only e-mail applications with a cover letter and resume will be accepted. The position is open until filled.  Please include your last name in the title of each document submitted (e.g., ‘Smith Cover Letter’).