Job Tag: Conservation

The Assistant Director of Conservation Action oversees the planning, operations, and evaluation of Shedd’s conservation action efforts that activate people and communities to act for animals. Shedd’s conservation action work utilizes an equity lens to restore and protect natural areas, prevent future environmental degradation, and mobilize various stakeholders and communities to act for a healthier future.

The assistant director is responsible for managing all aspects of implementing environmental restoration projects and delivering conservation action outreach programs. Working closely with other Shedd departments, the assistant director will contribute to interdepartmental collaboration, coordinate training and education on key conservation issues, centralize important resources for conservation messaging, and track outputs and outcomes. The assistant director also manages external partnerships, playing a key role in developing new relationships and delivering on collaborative efforts with nonprofits, elected officials, businesses, community groups, and others.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Conservation, Science, Education, Communications, Non-Profit Management, or related field or a combination of experience and education/training.

Experience:

3+ years of experience managing diverse teams required.
5+ years of experience with program coordination, community engagement, public outreach, and presentation delivery, preferably in a non-profit setting.
Experience with volunteer management or community environmental stewardship is desired.
Demonstrated ability to handle a large workload in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Excellent communication skills and a talent for planning and delivering educational activities. Aware of current, local, national, and international conservation issues, with the ability to effectively and clearly communicate them to various audiences.
Poised, articulate professional with diplomacy, a sense of humor, a positive attitude, and charisma. Driven, highly organized self-starter. Confident, outgoing, and enjoys socializing with diverse audiences. Appreciation for and strong attention to detail. Passionate about the environment. A lifelong learner.

SALARY: $75,000 – $85,000

Job Summary: The Horticulturist will be responsible for enhancing the beauty and health of the District’s
parks and facilities by overseeing the design, planting and maintenance of landscaped areas.

Essential Functions:

Oversee the planning, coordinating, and execution of the planting, care, maintenance of flower beds, shrubs and planters across the district parks and facilities.
Develop innovative and visually appealing layouts for flower beds and other landscaped areas.
Monitor and manage the health of plants, addressing issues such as weed control, diseases, fungi and pests.
Manage the operations of the district’s greenhouse, which includes all annuals and perennials.
Provide input and recommendations for the budgeting process and future projects, equipment needs, and schedules.
Install landscape elements, including plants, trees, lawns, pathways, and hardscape features.
Perform routine maintenance tasks such as pruning, mowing, weeding, fertilizing and pest control.
General landscape, maintenance and horticulture duties within parks and open space throughout the year. This includes but is not limited to watering, mulching, mowing, weeding, trimming plants, and leaf and tree removal.
Works in conjunction with Superintendent of Parks to manage the District’s GIS, which includes tree management and amenity management.
Operates various park district vehicles and motorized equipment; within weight and license restriction requirements perform pre-trip inspection of vehicles and equipment.
Remove all garbage and trash from parks and playgrounds.
Assist with sight improvement and special projects.
Off hour responsibility includes on-call duties, inclement weather response, and emergency response.
Prepare ballfields as needed, paint athletic lines.
Assist with special event set up and take downs including but not limited to banner hanging, fencing, lighting, sound systems, transporting equipment, table and chair set up/take down and trash collection.
Perform general maintenance on district vehicles and equipment.
Operation of small power tools (cordless drills, saws, and sanders, etc.).
Ability to take lead on landscape and special detail projects with minimal support.
Perform all other duties and tasks as assigned.

Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in horticultural or related field and or equivalent work experience. Minimum of three years of experience designing and installing plant beds. Ability to obtain an Illinois Applicators license within one year of hire. Knowledge and passion for learning plan identification, horticultural maintenance practices and landscape design standards preferred and a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Team-oriented mindset with excellent organizational and communication skills.
Knowledge of equipment, material and supplies used in grounds & facilities maintenance.
Ability and desire to learn horticultural maintenance practices in regards to annuals, perennials, and natural areas.
Ability to operate hand and self-propelled power equipment.
Valid Illinois Driver’s License.
Ability to follow directions and complete projects with minimal supervision.
Ability to communicate with the public and patrons.
Ability to utilize District electronic tools/software, including but not limited to: network computers, District email/calendar, Paycor system and cell phones.

The County of Yolo is recruiting to fill one at-will, full-time position as the Executive Director of Yolo Habitat Conservancy. This is a County position within the General Services Department within the newly constituted Parks & Conservation Planning Division.

The Position

Under the policy direction of the Yolo Habitat Conservancy Board of Directors (Board) and administrative direction of the County of Yolo, the Yolo Habitat Conservancy Executive Director serves as the administrator of the Yolo Habitat Conservancy, a joint powers agency responsible for implementing the Yolo Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (Yolo HCP/NCCP). This position is responsible for overseeing the implementation of Board plans, policies, procedures and other Board decisions consistent with California and federal laws and regulations, developing the organizational budget and ensuring that all activities comply with funding source requirements and Yolo Habitat Conservancy Board approved principles and strategies. The Executive Director is the Board’s agent in ensuring efficient and effective organizational operations and administration. The Executive Director has Board delegated authority to enter contracts and authorize payment for Conservancy operations consistent with Board-approved policies and procedures. The incumbent will be responsible for supervising staff and consultants, performing technical, professional planning, program management, land acquisition, and project implementation work with a substantial degree of independence and judgment. This is a highly visible position that requires the incumbent to provide leadership, demonstrate political sensitivity, and develop and maintain positive working relationships with all those contacted during the course and scope of employment.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience conducting land acquisitions for conservation purposes, landscape-scale land conservation, habitat management and restoration, and a familiarity with regulatory permitting. Strong analytical, communication, customer service, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to thrive in a high-paced team environment are imperative for success in this position.

Education: Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a degree in public or business administration, public policy, resource or environmental management, environmental studies, planning, or a closely related field;

AND
Experience: Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in natural resource management, government and/or private industry performing work in one or more of the following areas: watershed management, public administration, environmental policy administration, water policy administration, mining, resource management or environmental resource management. At least two (2) years of qualifying experience must have been at the supervisory or management level. Possession of a Masters Degree may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience.

Salary: $132,329.60 – $160,825.60 Annually

Join our team at the Kauai National Wildlife Refuge Complex (NWRC) and help steward some of the most majestic and important habitat management sites on Kauai. This fulltime position is a key role within our ohana and will work alongside the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service team in planning, developing, prioritizing and implementing habitat restoration and management, and maintenance and infrastructure projects at Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Hanalei NWR and Huleia NWR.

Although employed by Friends of Kauaʻi Wildlife Refuges, the Refuge Complex’s dedicated Friends Group, this position will be directly supervised by the Kauai NWRC Deputy Refuge Manager.

This position is integral to the upkeep of nearly 1,500 acres of habitat that is essential for protecting, restoring and enhancing native ecosystems and species, through invasive species control and landscape-level management, working with Refuge staff and other conservation partners. The position has a strong emphasis on working with partners and contractors for various Refuge construction and maintenance projects. The position will also require data collection and reporting, procurement, writing detailed project descriptions/scopes of work, coming up with materials list for projects, obtaining cost estimates, and making/assigning task lists.

Skills and Qualifications:

At least 4 years’ experience in construction, maintenance, and heavy equipment operation.

Strong interest in natural resource management and conservation of local lands and native species.

Knowledge and first-hand experience with Hawaii’s flora, fauna, and culture is desirable, but not required.

Education and/or experience in a relevant field, such as biology, ecology, environmental science, or wildlife and/or habitat management is preferred, but not required.

Knowledge of standard mechanical tools, systems, and component parts necessary to perform a variety of mechanical repairs on vehicles, equipment, and attachments, such as tune-ups, brake repairs, water and fuel pumps, etc.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Experience with contracting and/or writing scopes of work/project plans, as well as materials lists and cost estimates.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as to work well with and motivate others.

Ability to work in remote and rugged terrain.

Physical Demands and Other Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 50 lbs.

Ability to work in various weather conditions for long periods of time.

Possession of a valid driver’s license and ability to provide own transportation to and from work.

Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Ability to successfully complete ORUV (ATV/UTV) training.

Ability to obtain applicable herbicide treatment certification.

Ability to obtain heavy equipment certification.

Ability to complete chainsaw training.

Ability to work full time (40 hours per week) between Monday through Friday or Tuesday through Saturday with some flexibility for emergency needs.

We are seeking an experienced Restoration Specialist to join our team to implement a variety of native plant restoration projects across our properties. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in native plant ecology, weed management, restoration practices, native vegetation maintenance, and project implementation.

Incumbent assists with the collection and installation of native plant species on Salt Lake City Trails & Natural Lands properties. Collects data and assists department management with technical support needed to advance various projects and initiatives. Assists restoration ecologist with performing analysis, preparing reports, and developing recommendations. Assists restoration ecologist with the coordination and implementation of complex, multi-agency, large scale, and long-term department/division initiatives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must possess a valid driver’s license. City vehicles require a valid driver’s license or driving privilege card.
Utah Pesticide Applicator License with an Ornamental and Turf endorsement, or ability to obtain one within six months.
Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, in-person and in writing, especially in dealing with challenging conversations with members of the public or with staff.

The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies seeks two to four Field Assistants to support the collection and processing of chemical and biological samples from the Hudson River and tributaries, and other local aquatic ecosystems. This work contributes to a large, multi-partner initiative focused on sustaining and improving long-term ecosystem and fisheries monitoring within the Hudson River system.

Successful applicants will spend up to 80% of their time in the field, conducting sampling along the Hudson River estuary and its tributaries between Troy and Manhattan, primarily from small boats and shore-based sites. Additional fieldwork may include travel to wetlands on Cary Institute property. The remainder of the work will take place in the lab and office. The position is based at the Cary Institute in Millbrook, New York.

This is a temporary, hourly (35 hours/week), non-exempt, non-benefited position $20-23 per hour, depending on the applicant’s education and experience. This position starts on or around April 27, 2026, with a flexible end date between August and October 30th. (exact dates negotiable).

Required Qualifications:

Authorization to work in the United States
Valid and clean driver’s license
High school diploma or equivalent
College-level coursework in ecology, environmental science, or related fields
Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong organizational and communication skills, with a positive attitude
Boater safety certification recognized by the State of New York.
First Aid and CPR certification
Experience in trailering, operating, navigating, or maintaining small boats
Experience with navigational tools (paper/digital navigational charts, GPS) and automated sensors
Experience using basic hand tools
Relevant coursework in freshwater ecology, limnology, and/or macroinvertebrates

Required Skills:

Ability to swim
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Basic computer skills (Microsoft and/or Google Office Suite)

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks a Program Officer (PO) to join its Great Plains team to support the Great Plains Wildlife Initiative (GWPI). Working closely with other WWF staff, the PO will cultivate and maintain relationships with key partners engaged in locally led efforts to restore and conserve bison, black-footed ferrets, prairie dogs, beavers, and their habitats within the U.S. portion of the Great Plains ecoregion. These partners may include Tribal, federal, and state agencies, private landowners and managers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), elected officials, academic institutions, and private enterprises. The PO will provide technical and financial assistance to key partners as well as contribute to WWF’s and partners’ fundraising efforts toward our shared wildlife conservation goals. This position will focus primarily on bison restoration with opportunities for black-footed ferret and beaver restoration.

Qualifications

4–6 years of professional experience, or 2+ years with an advanced degree in natural resources management, wildlife ecology, environmental studies, or a related field; relevant work experience is required.
Demonstrated experience managing conservation projects in the Great Plains, with a strong understanding of regional ecology is preferred.
Proven ability to collaborate with Native nations and rural communities, with cultural sensitivity and respect required.

Coordinates complex, multi-partner projects with diverse stakeholders and integrates feedback from collaborators to inform strategic decisions.

Knowledge of proposal writing, grant management, and donor engagement is a plus.

Strong research, analytical, and project management skills; highly organized with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

Excellent written and verbal communication, including public speaking and presenting ecological topics to varied audiences.

Works effectively both independently and collaboratively; committed to fostering an inclusive team culture.

Willing to travel 25–50% within the Great Plains, including remote locations.

Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).

Location: This is a remote position with a preference for candidates located in western South Dakota or eastern Colorado. Candidates in eastern Montana or eastern Wyoming may also be considered.

Salary Range: $69,000 – $86,100

Want to help save the planet? Through the efforts of The Nature Conservancy over 137,000 acres in Pennsylvania and Delaware have been preserved for people and nature and you can help with the management of some of our lands. From the mountains to the sea, the Pennsylvania and Delaware Chapter is dedicated to conserving the natural resources that make each state unique.

The Stewardship Field Assistant assists with a variety of stewardship and management duties on Conservancy preserves within eastern Pennsylvania duties include legal compliance monitoring, ecological monitoring, invasive species control, research, updating management plans, using and maintaining equipment such as hand tools, chain saws and brush saws, safely applying herbicide, enforcing preserve policies and monitoring visitor use, performing trail, boundary, and sign maintenance, and maintaining cooperative relationships with preserve neighbors, agency partners, the general public and partner organizations. Must be able to work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

What You’ll Bring:

High school diploma and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management (e.g.: land management, landscaping, camp counselor, or similar experience) or equivalent combination
Experience identifying plant and animal species.
Experience operating various types of equipment safely and efficiently (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).

Experience working in a team environment.

Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).

Requires valid driver’s license.

Desired Qualifications

1 – 2 years’ experience in land management or related field (land management, landscaping, camp counselor, etc.).

Experience working in or knowledge of natural systems, geography, and environmental science in Pennsylvania.

Experience hiking over rough terrain for extended periods of time, lift and carry up to 40 pounds, and be willing to work outdoors sometimes in foul weather; ability to navigate in the field.

Communicates effectively in person and in writing with a wide variety of people, including preserve neighbors, private landowners, partners, and volunteers.

Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.

Demonstrated experience with GPS devices to find and mark field locations, have experience navigating roads in remote locations. Able to read and interpret road and topographic maps, aerial photos, and other sources of mapped information. Experience with ESRI software is helpful.

Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

Under general supervision , the position emphasizes and involves a variety of knowledge and abilities in the field of trail construction and maintenance to include: installation and maintenance of related infrastructure, carpentry, and operation of a motor vehicle, mechanized equipment and trailers. The Trails Assistant Crew Lead is expected to perform trail construction and maintenance under minimal supervision from the Crew Lead. Trails Assistant Crew Leads will assume leadership of trail crew in absence of the Trail Crew Lead. The position will assist the Trail Crew Lead in training and directing the work of people in the Crew Member position, Jr. Rangers, Ready to Work, youth corps., volunteers, and other groups and individuals assigned to trail projects.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Ability and willingness to work in adverse weather and field conditions.
Ability in composure – Stays cool under pressure and does not become defensive or irritated; is a settling influence during a crisis.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments, governmental agencies, and the public.
Ability to prepare effective written reports, and to work and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people, including the ability to deal courteously with the public and land users.
Ability to rely on experience, training, and independent judgment in determining how to plan and execute responsibilities in resourceful and effective ways.
Ability to use all safety equipment.
Knowledge of functional / technical skills – Effectively applies technical knowledge to solve a range of problems related to relevant program disciplines; keeps informed about cutting-edge technology and practices in assigned technical area.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Skill in communication – Expresses ideas effectively, organizes and delivers information appropriately; actively listens to concerns and is open to the ideas of colleagues and customers.
Skill in organization – can put together resources to get assignments done; uses resources effectively and efficiently.
Skill in teamwork – Works effectively as a member of formal and informal teams; understands the interests and concerns of others and is able and willing to share and receive information; cooperates within and across groups and supports group decisions.
Skill in timely decision making – Keeps self and team members on task; makes decisions in a timely manner sometimes with incomplete information and under tight deadlines.
​Valid Driver’s License and ability to maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record.
Have and maintain acceptable background information, including criminal conviction history.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or GED.
One (1) year of experience in the trail maintenance, landscaping, construction or related field.

Founded in 2002, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works with 64 partner groups, its Corporate Council and its 140,000 members and supporters to guarantee all Americans quality places to hunt and fish. We unite and amplify our partners’ voices by strengthening policy and funding around conservation, habitat, and access.

The TRCP’s Arizona Field Representative works within Arizona to support TRCP’s mission to guarantee all Americans quality places to hunt and fish. This individual collaborates closely with partner non-profit organizations, community leaders, and decision makers to further TRCP’s policy priorities in this region, including working with partner and non-partner organizations to advance improved water and habitat management projects in Arizona and throughout the Colorado River Basin. Working as a joint member of the Center for Public Lands and the Center for Water Resources, this individual works closely with the Director of Water Resources and the Southwest Field Manager, TRCP field representatives and communications staff and partner organizations to further the conservation mission of the organization.

The TRCP offers a generous benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401k, cell phone and home internet reimbursement, and ample paid time off.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

· A bachelor’s degree plus 2+ years of experience in the hunting, fishing and/or conservation policy arena or related field, including previous campaign, agency and/or nonprofit experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experie

Detailed knowledge of public lands, wildlife management, habitat restoration, and water management in Arizona and the broader Colorado River Basin.

The ability to build & maintain strong working relationships with state & federal agency staff, nonprofit partner organizations, elected decision-makers, & diverse interest groups. Experience working with Arizona conservation and watershed organizations and/or other key stakeholders, is preferred.

· Ability to work independently and coordinate multiple priorities within a diverse project and policy portfolio.

· Willingness and ability to travel across the state/hold a valid Driver’s License.

· Excellent communications, analytical, writing, and research skills.

The ideal candidate will have established relationships within Arizona and the Colorado River Basin across multiple sectors and governmental jurisdictions and have a demonstrated record of effectively influencing conservation policy. Ideal candidates will also have a strong familiarity with contemporary Colorado River management issues and Arizona water policy.