Job Tag: Conservation

The Freshwater Trust (TFT) is a non-profit leader in data-driven watershed restoration and freshwater resource management. Our team members are building tools and creating and testing new, scalable solutions that will help deliver measurable environmental and economic benefits. With a mission of preserving and restoring freshwater ecosystems, our approach is driven by science, data and results. TFT employs ~50 team members with programs across California, Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, Washington, and Texas. We currently have three physical offices in Portland, OR, Ashland, OR and Sacramento, CA. Our team members range in background and skillset. Teams include program implementation, science and analytics, habitat restoration, legal, philanthropy and fundraising, communications, finance, and administrative and systems support.

Role Description

The Senior Program Manager is an experienced project manager who is comfortable managing multi-year, multi-million dollar programs in California. The ideal candidate comes from a consulting background and has managed projects from proposal to delivery for a variety of clients and agencies. Main duties will include budget oversight, technical document preparation and review, program development and management, and client communications. There will also be an opportunity to manage direct reports as the project progresses. The California team includes field staff, researchers, and scientists who work closely with TFT’s Science and Analytics team. The Senior Program Manager reports to the Regional Vice President, California.

This role is focused on leading TFT’s work on a large-scale ecosystem enhancement program in agricultural, riparian, and wetland environments. This exciting effort is associated with in-lieu groundwater aquifer recharge that will benefit both the agricultural community, and riparian and wetland ecosystems. The ideal candidate has the ability to effectively collaborate with and extract strategic direction from a variety of technical teams, as well as the ability to absorb complex technical issues from multiple disciplines and extract critical path issues so they can advise the California Regional VP on potential risk factors.

The position is actively engaged in cost projections and reviews of complex programmatic budgets, organizational budget projections/tracking/reporting, and responsibility for client facing documentation. A scientific background would be helpful in particular, riparian and wetland science. You must be local to Sacramento area as this role will work from our office with the whole California team once a week, have local project meetings, as well as travel to project sites as needed.

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

Qualities

Highly organized and able to learn, use and improve internal tracking and coordination tools and processes.
Commitment to effective contractual project management and tracking scopes, schedules, and budget.
Ability to work safely as part of a team in rural and remote areas.
Quick learner and problem solver with the ability to adapt to new processes and contexts.
Relational & collaborative: Excels in building trust and working with others to achieve multiple benefits; Ability to form and maintain strong cross-departmental and cross-disciplinary relationships.

Skills

Excellent communicator (written/verbal), facilitator and manager.
Able to proofread and provide QC on technical documents and provide feedback to clarify and enhance reports and other documents.
Able to summarize and synthesize project, program and personnel needs and priorities while also building understanding, buy-in and alignment of team members.
Strong people- and time-management skills with ability to be flexible and responsive to changing priorities.
Thrives proactively juggling multiple tasks and competing priorities within a high-energy, fast-paced environment.
Ability to evaluate details in bigger-picture context of organization priorities.

Qualifications

15+ years of professional experience and 10+ years managing large programs.
Advanced degree in natural resource management, water resources, or biological sciences.
Experience working with engineers and biologists.
Consulting and/or scientific backgrounds preferred.
Working knowledge of freshwater ecosystems, including water quantity and quality, agricultural irrigation practices, and construction BMPs.
Strong understanding of water management challenges, policies and politics in California.

Salary Range: $115,000 to $135,000

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will provide strategic vision and leadership, ensure financial sustainability, and oversee daily operations, all while advancing HBG’s mission and Master Site Plan. Key responsibilities include financial management; budgeting; staff and volunteer leadership, recruitment and training; and fostering a collaborative work environment that inspires the conservation of plants and the environment.

About Us

Humboldt Botanical Garden (HBG), a young organization dedicated to showcasing the horticultural potential of California’s mild North Coast, is seeking an accomplished and visionary Executive Director (ED). This is a full-time, exempt position offering the opportunity to guide the Garden’s future while making a enduring impact on a unique coastal community.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include oversight of Garden operations; financial management; staff and volunteer leadership, recruitment and training; and fostering a collaborative work environment that inspires the conservation of plants and the environment.

Education and Experience

 Passion for the Garden’s mission
 Proven ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with community partners
and stakeholders
 Financial and operational acumen, with experience in non-profit financial
oversight, program development, human resource management, and executing
successful operational plans
 Leadership skills including a successful history of setting clear goals and
developing actionable strategies
 Fundraising and operational success including the ability to diversify revenue
streams, secure major gifts and grants, and engage community members in
fundraising initiatives
 Success in devising marketing strategies for audience development through
brand-building activities and relationships
 Humility and approachability, a collaborative leader who approaches work with
humility, calmness, humor, and heart, fostering a positive inclusive culture
 Exceptional communication skills with an ability to listen actively and engage
authentically
 Degree in a related field preferred
 Proven track record in non-profit management preferred
 Background in horticulture and plants collections a plus

Additional Information

The role is based in Eureka, CA and will require working onsite. Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. HBG offers competitive benefits and time off.
Salary range: $90,000 to $100,000 per annum

Do you have a passion for nature, sustainability, and community engagement, and enjoy hands-on work with gardens, native plants, and ecological restoration? Are you excited to lead sustainability projects, train and inspire volunteers, and build partnerships that make a visible impact across 470 acres of art and nature? If so, this is the opportunity for you.

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is seeking a Sustainability and Gardens Manager to oversee the care, planning, and stewardship of all landscaped and natural spaces across the Park’s 470 acres. This role leads sustainable garden operations, habitat improvement, beautification initiatives, and environmental best practices that support the Park’s mission to bring people to art in nature. You’ll work closely with staff, volunteers, and community partners to strengthen Pyramid Hill’s environmental impact, increase biodiversity, and enhance guest experiences.

As the Sustainability and Gardens Manager, you will:

Oversee daily care and maintenance of gardens, native plant areas, pollinator habitats, no-mow zones, and trees
Plan annual and seasonal plantings, plant selection, and maintenance schedules
Monitor plant health, pruning, mulching, mowing, watering, and bed maintenance
Lead honeysuckle and invasive species removal, ecological restoration, and native habitat expansion
Support landscape management around the historic Fortified Hill earthwork
Develop and implement sustainability initiatives (composting, rainwater collection, pollinator gardens, soil regeneration, IPM)
Lead and supervise volunteers, seasonal staff, interns, and community service groups
Provide educational support for sustainability and plant-related topics, including workshops, tours, and field trips
Manage budgets for plant materials, tools, and sustainability projects
Build partnerships with environmental organizations, garden clubs, and universities
Assist with grant reporting and donor proposals as needed.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Horticulture, Sustainability, Landscape Management, Forestry, or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience
At least 2 years’ practical experience in gardening, landscaping, ecological restoration, or park management (volunteer or graduate work considered)
Certifications in sustainable horticulture, pollinator gardening, or conservation preferred
Knowledge of native plants, pollinators, soil health, and sustainable practices
Experience with invasive species identification and removal
Able to lead volunteers, train teams, and manage projects independently
Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather and terrain
Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills
Valid driver’s license
Ability to lift 50 lbs

Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) is an entrepreneurial nonprofit working on environmental solutions at the intersection of renewable energy and freshwater. Partnerships are key to our success. We build long-term relationships with our education, corporate, utility and philanthropic partners by first understanding their goals and needs and providing solutions that achieve those goals while achieving real, measurable environmental benefits.

Who are we looking for?

We are actively seeking a passionate, collaborative team member leader to join our integrated floodplain and watershed management programs The successful candidate will join the BEF Watersheds team, building relationships and working with communities that are leading and supporting ambitious floodplain and watershed resilience initiatives. This role involves coordinating high-visibility partner and legislative engagements, site visits, and outreach events; expansion of networks to strategic new allies; facilitating learning and information sharing events; creating and contributing to technical materials; and tracking and managing grant reporting and budgets.

Qualifications:

Education Bachelors, in policy, planning, natural resources, public administration, or related degree
Demonstrated experience with Washington State legislative or regulatory processes; existing relationships with Tribal nations, state agencies, or local governments in Washington; experience with FEMA floodplain management programs or NFIP; background in collaborative governance, facilitation, or community engagement
Minimum 8-10 years experience, with 5+ years experience convening and facilitating collaborative discussions among diverse stakeholders, such as government agencies, Tribes, community organizations, and private sector partners
Technical knowledge and existing or potential relationships with one or more sectors with synergies in integrated floodplain management and resilience, including but not limited to: food security, real estate, insurance, affordable housing, energy security

Identify, vet and operationalize policy reforms, capacity building opportunities and
Topical expertise in one or more pertinent areas such as WA Growth Management Act, voluntary acquisition and buyouts, floodplain permitting improvements, energy and utility nexus

Desirable:

MA/MS in environmental policy, natural resources, urban planning, public policy, climate resilience, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

What’s in it for you:

Salary Range: $94,000-$108,000 per year DOE.
100% Employer paid Medical, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Life insurance for employees; 75% subsidized for family/dependents.
Retirement plan with 5% employer matching contribution.
Generous PTO and Vacation Policy including alternative care and self-care leave.
Four Week paid sabbatical after first 6 years, then every 5 years thereafter
Opportunity to grow through training and development including a generous paid professional development budget.
Hybrid work schedule.

Conservation Northwest has a 35+ year track record of success protecting and connecting wildlands in Washington and British Columbia, and recovering our region’s iconic wildlife including wolves, wolverines, fishers, lynx, and grizzly bears. We recognize that for long-term progress, conservation must go hand-in-hand with healthy, prosperous, and equitable communities.

The Wildlife-Recreation Coexistence Program (WREC) Coordinator will be responsible for leading the WREC program in its goals to reduce the impact of outdoor recreation on sensitive species and habitats. This role will specialize in building coalitions, utilizing wildlife science, community outreach and policy formation while striving to reach on-the-ground outcomes that serve both wildlife conservation and sustainable recreation access. This role also will serve to support and amplify Tribal and First Foods values, interests, and rights across public lands. A trusted liaison between recreation communities, Tribal partners, and agency collaborators, this role will strive to find workable and implementable solutions to recreation-related impacts across public lands.

Desired Qualifications:

Conservation Northwest recognizes that applicants that could be successful in this role may have a variety of backgrounds that do not perfectly match the desired qualifications. Interested candidates that align with a majority of the job description and have an aptitude and interest in acquiring new skills or experience are encouraged to apply. Applicants from marginalized or underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged.

Ability to serve as an organized, resourceful, and proactive self-starter—and as a visible community representative for wildlife conservation.

At least four years of professional experience in community engagement, wildlife or natural resource management, outdoor recreation, or related fields. A strong background in wildlife and habitat science, research and/or wildlife management is preferred.

Residency in the region and strong familiarity with Washington’s landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and recreation community.

Demonstrated experience in policy formation and clear, effective public-facing communication and comment letters, including public speaking, presentations, both in-person and online, in front of crowds or government officials.

Experienced in collaboration, convening, and bridge building while standing tall for wildlife and habitat in large stakeholder meetings where numerous competing interests are at play.

Experienced working alongside state and/or federal agencies on wildlife conservation and/or sustainable outdoor recreation projects.

Demonstrated working relationships with the outdoor recreation community, Tribal nations, conservation groups, and the broader outdoor industry, with an emphasis on Tribal collaboration and engagement.

Possess deep working relationships within the outdoor recreation community in Washington state.

Compensation: $58,000-63,000 (dependent on qualifications and location)

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (LLPA) is a mission-driven institution dedicated to inspiring people to explore, discover, and learn about Earth’s diverse ecosystems. Founded in 1997, the Aquarium provides impactful educational experiences for guests of all ages and backgrounds.

Position Summary:

The Horticulturist I is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the plants in their respective areas. This position provides daily care of plant materials both inside and outside of the Aquarium. The candidate will work with the Horticulture Manager to ensure the health and well-being of all plant material as well as the safety of both people and animals in work areas. This position will also be trained in the care and maintenance of both temperate and tropical plant material in the gallery and garden spaces. The individual will maintain an understanding of current horticultural practices. The Horticulturist also has the knowledge and ability to act as a resource for presenters, volunteers, and interns.

Qualifications:

· A college degree (A.A, A.S, B.A, OR B.S) is strongly recommended with an emphasis in Horticulture or other plant science course work. Equivalent hands-on work experience/knowledge will be considered.

· Experience maintaining numerous types of plants with various cultural practices

· Experience and knowledge of plants, pests, diseases, and nutrition

· Must have experience maintaining various types of both indoor and outdoor plant materials

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:

· Valid Utah driver’s license

· Must possess current, negative drug and TB test results

· Must be willing to certify and train on scissor lift and forklift

Critical Skills/Competencies:

· Attention to detail

· Excellent troubleshooting skills

· Excellent oral and written communication skills

· Working knowledge of best management practices on plant care

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

· Perform watering, weeding, fertilizing, seasonal plant rotation, and pruning.

· Monitor plant health and address pests, disease, and nutrient deficiencies. Reporting suspected incidence of pests and/or disease immediately to the Horticulture Manager.

· Ensure all landscaped areas remain attractive and professionally maintained.

· Perform watering and cleanup functions without direct supervision

· Maintain a clean work area to facilitate a presentable and safe environment for work and behind the scenes tours

· Maintain a flexible schedule to ensure project deadlines are met, including availability for evening, weekend, or holiday shifts as required.

· Provide alternate coverage for the Horticulture team

· Maintain supplies and equipment needed for the department

Salary: $18.00 Hourly

The Open Space Institute is a national leader in land conservation and efforts to make parks and other protected land more welcoming for all. Since 1974, OSI has partnered in the protection of more than 2.5 million at-risk and environmentally sensitive acres in the eastern U.S. OSI’s land protection promotes clean air and water, improves access to recreation, provides wildlife habitat, strengthens communities, and combats the devastating impacts of extreme weather.

Position Overview

The Greenway Trails Project Manager manages land acquisition projects that convert former rail corridors into public greenway trails and expand regional trail networks across the Northeast and Midwest. Working under the direction of the Senior Vice President of Northeast Land and in coordination with the Legal Department, this role supports the completion of complex real estate transactions involving rail corridor acquisition, multi-party negotiations, public funding sources, and coordination with government agencies to expand regional trail networks. Projects may involve railbanking, corridor preservation, and coordination with railroads, public agencies, and trail partners to transition former rail infrastructure into public trail networks.

The Project Manager coordinates the day-to-day progress of acquisition projects, including managing due diligence, working with consultants, supporting purchase negotiations, navigating public review processes, and assisting with funding applications. The role also helps identify potential acquisition opportunities and supports efforts to secure funding for trail and conservation projects.

This position requires experience with real estate transactions, land acquisition, or conservation projects, strong project management skills, and the ability to coordinate multiple partners and processes to move projects forward.

Required Skills/Core Competencies

Sound understanding of real estate principles and economics.
Experience working with Class I or Class II railroads or familiarity with railroad real estate transactions preferred.
Familiarity with government real property acquisition review process.
Working knowledge of the processes for obtaining public funding for land acquisition.
Ability to manage multiple properties, multiple funding sources and processes, develop programs and use resources of the organization to accomplish larger initiatives.
Experience with mapping and related GIS analysis is a plus.
Superior written and oral communication skills.
Proficiency with computer applications including MS Office, internet tools, and databases.
Highly organized.
Ability to work well as part of a team, and individually.
High-level familiarity with public agency land acquisition departments.

Qualifications

5–8 years of experience in real estate transactions, land acquisition, conservation real estate, infrastructure corridor acquisition, or related project management work.
Experience managing or supporting real estate due diligence processes (title, survey, appraisal, environmental review) preferred.
Experience in working on railroad projects preferred.
A track record of effective relationship management, both internally and externally.
Bachelor’s degree, advanced degree in related field preferred; or equivalent experience.
Existing relationships with public agencies and government officials is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Valid driver’s license required.
Moderate to heavy travel (30% or more): evening and occasional weekend work to be expected.
Frequently sits for long periods of time.
Frequently speaks, reads, writes and uses a computer keyboard.
Requires standing, walking, stooping, bending, lifting up to 30 lbs.
Have an appropriate home workspace for remote days.

Pay for this position is $90,000-$100,000, commensurate with the candidate’s skill level and experience. The recruiting team is committed to sharing details regarding compensation based on the candidate’s qualifications during the interview process.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana’s citizens through professional leadership, management, and education. DNR Fish & Wildlife enriches the quality of life for present and future generations by balancing the biological, ecological, recreational, and economic benefits of Indiana’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats.

Role Overview:

This position is responsible for the Division of Fish, Wildlife & Nature Preserve’s land acquisition projects. This includes projects involving large acreage and of being of crucial importance for conservation in Indiana. This position will also assist in access leases that provide many citizens access to recreational opportunities in the state. This position also assists property managers with help regarding boundary issues, researching chain of titles and legal descriptions.
The incumbent will possess an ability to process complex situations and derive solutions. The incumbent will possess negotiation skills and the ability to talk with a diverse group of people, from private citizens, to local, state and federal agency staff, and with conservation partners.

Salary Statement:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $67,314.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience.

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

Extensive knowledge of and ability to understand and interpret relevant federal and state laws and administrative rules and is expected to wisely apply appropriate and related procedures and policies to lead projects through sound engineering, financial, and environmental means.
Must work independently and meet with and disseminate overall project and technical information to federal, state and local agencies as well as coordinate with other Department personnel, co-workers, Executive Management, and have the ability to communicate with a diverse group of professionals.
Projects are varied and unique, including among them aquatic centers, ADA compliance, campgrounds, dam and levee evaluation and improvements, exhibit installations, inn additions/ renovations, interpretive centers, master planning, mitigation, parking facilities, roads and trails, and shooting ranges. Most projects require complex solutions and coordination and require resolution of disputes or opposing viewpoints among stakeholders (public, State, Federal, and local government) to form consensus.
Critical thinking and technical knowledge, ability to interpret construction plans, effectively apply methodology and standards, ability to communicate with diverse professionals.
Broad knowledge of Department standards and policies, ability to plan, develop, critique, and prioritize projects/programs.
Knowledge of bidding and construction process and ability to review shop drawings and contractor submittals for consistency with design and technical requirements.
Thorough knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local regulatory programs and procedures.
Ability to provide designs that meet safety and code requirements in coordination with usage requirements of the institution and public within an acceptable budget.
Knowledge of the requirements of the NEPA review process.
Ability to communicate effectively and timely, both orally and in writing.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with coworkers within and outside the Division; Federal, State, and local agencies; consultants; contractors, as well as the general public.

A degree is not required. However, at least 5 years of experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities gained in architecture, engineering, environmental sciences, landscape architecture, natural resource management, planning, public affairs, or similar setting/field may be considered.

Trout Unlimited (TU) is seeking two (2) Aquatic Resource Seasonal Technicians based in southwest Wisconsin to help fulfill the organization’s mission to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams, so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon. The Aquatic Resource Seasonal Technicians will assist TU staff and a Lead Seasonal Technician with projects aimed at restoring aquatic connectivity and in-stream habitat. The primary responsibility of this position is to complete road-stream crossing inventories using the Great Lakes Road Stream Crossing Inventory method. These inventories are an important first step for TU and project partners to identify aquatic organism passage barriers and prioritize streams for future restoration work. Additional duties may include assisting with fishery and habitat surveys, monitoring recently completed aquatic connectivity project sites, assisting TU and partners with in-stream habitat restoration projects, and assisting TU staff with in-stream temperature monitoring projects.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter and provide examples of independent field or work experience.

Driftless
The positions will require frequent travel throughout the southern Driftless Area. Focal areas include Dane, Sauk, Lafayette, Iowa, Green, Columbia and La Crosse counties. The positions will be 100% field based, and individuals will be expected to find housing in a centrally located area.
Requirements

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Conduct road-stream crossing inventories using the Great Lakes Road-Stream Crossing Inventory Method.

· Collect accurate field data and ensure data is submitted in a timely manner.

· Assist with a variety of stream surveys including water quality, habitat or fishery assessments.

· Assist with the maintenance of scientific equipment in the field.

· Work with TU’s regional partners in the field to improve cold water habitat through invasive species removal, woody debris installations, tree plantings, and other methods.

· Participate in education and outreach efforts with project partners and the public.

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

QUALIFICATIONS

· Enrolled in or completed a B.S. in a Natural resources, engineering, or related field

· A working knowledge of principles and practices of fisheries or water resources.

· Outstanding interpersonal and organizational skills.

· Self-motivated and responsible with demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Ability to problem solve and think creatively to achieve a conservation mission.

· Willingness to travel (frequently overnight) to remote locations and capable of hiking and carrying equipment in difficult terrain and working in inclement conditions and remote locations.

· Experience in and comfort with camping on a nightly basis in remote locations with limited cell reception.

· Valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle.

· Proficient with Microsoft Office programs, experience with Esri Applications a plus.

PAY & WORK SCHEDULE

These positions are paid at a rate of $15-18 per hour and include per diem pay while traveling and mileage reimbursement for reasonable travel to and from the “home base” (usually a campground) for the work week.

The work week is typically 40 hours per week, which will be flexible to accommodate weather, travel and crew logistics. Previous crews have arranged to work four 10-hour days, for example. The anticipated employment date range is May through August 2026.