Job Tag: Conservation

American Farmland Trust (AFT) is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect nearly 8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families. Long a pioneering leader, AFT continues to evolve to meet the needs of farmers and ranchers nationwide, adapting its approach to ensure the continued strength and resilience of agriculture and rural communities nationwide.

Job purpose

Reporting to the Western Managing Director, the California Regional Director (Director) provides strategic leadership for growing American Farmland Trust’s (AFT) impact in California.

Position summary

This role is ideal for a strategic leader who understands the intersection of agriculture and conservation and brings an entrepreneurial mindset to growing programs and partnerships. The Director will play key roles with program development, external relations, and fundraising while also working closely with the California Deputy Director to manage a high-functioning team to grow American Farmland Trust’s impact in California.

Education & Experience

BA or BS degree and a minimum of 10 years of related leadership experience in public policy, agriculture, conservation, or related fields. Or, 8 years of related leadership experience with an advanced degree in one or more of the disciplines noted.

Compensation

This position offers an annual salary of $125,000 – $130,000.

Marin County Parks manages 40 public parks and pathways, and 18,500 acres of open space. These public lands, which include McNears Beach, Paradise Beach, Roy’s Redwoods, Bolinas Lagoon, Mount Burdell, and Ring Mountain, reflect the rich variety of ecosystems in coastal northern California.

There are currently seven seasonal assistant vacancies in the conservation science program.

The Conservation Science program is now recruiting for Seasonal Assistants for the 2026 Season. The following roles may be available:

Vegetation Crew: Treating invasive plants using hand tools, power tools, and herbicide, surveying preserves for early detection weeds, mapping and recording work completed using GPS/GIS, data entry/data processing, maintaining tools and equipment, general park maintenance and other tasks as needed.
Wildlife Assistant: Monitoring and collecting wildlife population data, habitat assessments, project biological compliance, rare plant surveys, vegetation community assessments, mapping and recording work completed using GPS/GIS, assisting with docent programs, data entry/data processing, maintaining tools and equipment, general park maintenance and other tasks as needed.
Volunteer Coordinator: Supporting volunteer efforts in habitat restoration and other stewardship projects. Coordinating and supporting volunteer efforts and reporting volunteer accomplishments by working with experienced Field Staff and helping with office tasks such as inventory and gathering data as well as program logistics such as cleaning tools and organizing supplies.

There will be opportunities to support other programs or teams. Additional tasks for all Conservation Science seasonal staff may include: treating invasive plants, restoration planting activities, working with volunteers, monitoring and collecting plant and wildlife population data, mapping and recording work completed using GPS/GIS, data entry/processing, writing monitoring protocols and summary reports, maintaining tools and equipment, general park maintenance and other tasks as needed. Tasks are subject to change during an emergency, seasonal staff should have the ability to be flexible during these times.

ABOUT YOU

We are looking for someone who is dependable, has personal and professional integrity, and possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They will have a strong commitment to providing quality customer service and working effectively both independently and on a team. Some direct experience or college level education in landscape maintenance, parks operations, construction, or environmental resource studies is desirable.

Some direct experience or college level education in landscape maintenance, parks operations or environmental resource studies is desirable. Level of appointment within the salary range is dependent upon the amount of experience and/or education directly related to area(s) of assignment.

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

Required Education and Experience:

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

Preferred Education and Experience:

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

The Landings Association is seeking an experienced Natural Resources Manager to lead stewardship, conservation, and sustainable management programs across our beautiful coastal community. This leadership role oversees lagoon and stormwater health, maritime forest preservation, wildlife management, landscaping contracts, and environmental compliance, playing a critical part in protecting the natural assets that define life at The Landings.

If you’re passionate about ecological health, enjoy leading teams, and thrive in a community-focused environment, we want to meet you.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage water quality, algae control, aeration, and shoreline vegetation across 151 lagoons.
Monitor forest health, oversee invasive species removal, and guide vegetation management.
Serve as liaison to USDA Wildlife Services for humane wildlife management and resident safety.
Oversee performance of landscaping contracts and common-area maintenance.
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations; maintain required reports.
Respond to environmental concerns such as fish kills, wildlife incidents, or hazardous spills.
Communicate with residents on environmental topics and provide education on best practices.
Lead, coach, and develop a skilled team of specialists.
Represent the Association on committees and at Board meetings.
Support emergency response efforts, including severe weather events.
Collaborate with other departments to improve communication, efficiency, and operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed for Success:

Strong knowledge of lagoon ecology, forestry practices, and wetland management.
Understanding of stormwater systems, algae control, aeration, and shoreline stabilization.
Familiarity with federal and state environmental and wildlife regulations.
Experience managing contractors, evaluating performance, and enforcing scopes of work.
Excellent interpersonal, customer service, and conflict-resolution skills.
Strong leadership ability with a focus on coaching and process improvement.
Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed, including emergency on-call situations.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Forestry, Ecology, Biology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
Five (5)+ years of progressive experience in natural resources, environmental, or public works management, including supervision.
Aquatic pesticide applicator license and Class A or B UST operator certification, or ability to obtain within six months.
Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured under Association policies.
Reliable, predictable attendance.
Ability to meet physical requirements and environmental demands of the position.

Working with the Lower San Pedro Program Manager, the Middle San Pedro Preserve Manager is responsible for overseeing the preserve and implementing conservation strategies that will positively influence the larger San Pedro River watershed. The Manager will represent TNC interests with neighbors, within the community, and with partners and agency representatives. The Manager ensures the maintenance of preserve vehicles, equipment, buildings and infrastructure, and may contract and coordinate multiple construction and maintenance projects from concept to completion. They are responsible for hydrological, fee land, and conservation easement monitoring and data management, and general support for the Stewardship Program and preserve system. Working with the Volunteer Program Director, the Manager recruits and leads volunteers. Will also provide visitors with opportunities to meaningfully connect with nature. With the Lower San Pedro Program Manager, they plan and direct preserve management programs, address threats to sensitive habitats and species, and supply Chapter programs with site and landscape level information. The Manager leverages our lands to further scientific research, showcase best management practices, and cultivate relationships with donors and the local community.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

Position executes all duties within the Conservancy’s Policies, Standard Operating Procedures, business practices, processes and guidelines and Business Unit (BU) practices.

May lead or monitor work groups consisting of staff, interns, and volunteers covering a wide geographic area.

Financial responsibility may include working within a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, assisting with budget development and fundraising targets.

Networks with diverse groups, including landowners, conservation partners, government officials, donors, board members and the general public to recruit support for the Conservancy and publicize Conservancy programs/preserves.

Works under minimal and/or distant supervision; may supervise staff/volunteers; makes some independent decisions based on analysis, experience and context.

Works in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

Occasional travel within Arizona to visit preserves, meetings, training, etc. (with possible over-night / weekend stays). Occasional travel in U.S. for trainings, etc.

Occasionally requires working long hours, weekends, and holidays.

Regularly lift, push, pull, move 50 pounds.

Valid driver’s license.

What You’ll Bring:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

BA/BS degree in science-related field and 1-year related experience in custodial and ecological land management or similar field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:
-Working with natural systems.
-Working with ecological land management principle
-Operating and/or repairing various types of equipment and
machinery.
-Working with computers and related software, such as
-Windows, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel and Word),
-“Box”, Teams, web browsers and internet research.

Youth qualified (certify completion within first 30 days of employment; annually thereafter).

The Senior Horticulturist of the Formal Gardens has the primary responsibility for the development, care, and maintenance of inspiring planting displays in their assigned area. In the Formal Gardens, this includes outdoor gardens, containers, interiorscapes, and floral arrangements. The Senior Horticulturist in the Formal Gardens requires expertise in both design and fine gardening techniques, and they regularly create new seasonal and permanent displays in collaboration with the Gardens Manager and Director of Horticulture. The Senior Horticulturist also leads, guides, and trains support staff, interns, and volunteers performing work in the area.

Major Objectives/Projects for the First 6-12 Months

The incoming Senior Horticulturist of the Formal Gardens will be expected to make significant impacts in the following key areas during their first year:

Support the design and installation of the Round Garden renovation.
Develop designs for fall container and annual plantings.
Develop opportunities to increase volunteerism in the Formal Gardens.

Education and Experience

Associate degree in horticulture or plant science from an accredited college, university, or recognized certificate in horticulture and 5 years’ experience working in a public garden setting or equivalent experience.

Qualifications and Skills

Broad knowledge of native plants, including identification, growth and cultural characteristics, and pest/disease/weed management.
Expertise in fine gardening techniques such as planting, pruning, hedging, mulching, and weeding.
Strong design ability for formal landscapes, containers, seasonal displays, and floral arrangements. Demonstrated experience developing multi-season planting schemes and cohesive displays is strongly preferred.
Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details and able to manage time and effectively function without close supervision.

Ability to plan and lead weekly and daily workflows for horticulturists, interns, and volunteers working in the area.

Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with staff and the public.
Willingness to act as a subject matter expert in tasks that include but are not limited to; teaching, writing articles, tours, and media opportunities.
Proficiency with technology and computers and various software platforms.
Ability to safely and effectively operate and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, vehicles and equipment.
Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

The Ohio Land Steward is a 12-month, full-time, short-term position split between the Edge of Appalachia Preserve System (EOA) field office just east of West Union, OH in Adams County, and the Grand River Conservation Campus (GRCC), southwest of Rock Creek, OH in Ashtabula County. This position will work the first 6 months at GRCC (November – April), and then shift to EOA for the remaining 6 months (April-October). They will work alongside local stewardship staff, and in collaboration with permanent staff, to advance Ohio’s land management, stewardship, and restoration goals on both TNC and partner lands. Work activities will be overseen and directed by the Appalachian Forest Manager while at EOA, and by the Grand River Restoration Coordinator while at GRCC through frequent, but not necessarily daily, interactions. Ohio Land Stewards will be responsible for a variety of land management activities as well as associated equipment preparation, use, and maintenance; use of GPS unit and related devices; accurate record keeping; and other responsibilities as assigned. May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.

What You’ll Bring:

High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in a science-related field or related experience in land management.

Experience working as part of a team.

Experience making informed decisions and problem solving

Ability to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, pesticide applicator license).

Capacity to perform physical work, often under adverse conditions or inclement weather.

Must be qualified, or be able to become qualified, as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2.Includes passing physical fitness testing for Fire Fighter Type 2 or Prescribed Fire Crew Member.

Desired Qualifications

1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management

1 – 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.

Experience in contributing to a safe, equitable, and respectful workplace.

Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.

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

Ability to make informed decisions and problem solve.

PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including GIS and database knowledge or understanding.

Experience operating equipment commonly used in land management in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. brush cutter, chainsaw, backpack sprayer, tank sprayer, UTV, ATV, Argo, two-way radio, or similar equipment).

Experience recognizing plant and animal species, especially non-native invasive species common in southern Ohio

Experience using hand-held GPS devices to record data and use of database systems for maintaining field records.

Biohabitats is seeking a Stream Restoration Specialist to join our Chesapeake / Delaware Bays Bioregion team in Baltimore, MD.

The ideal candidate will have strong organizational, analytical, and engineering skills that can be applied to support stream restoration and a variety of ecological restoration and planning projects within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This includes in-field assessments and the preparation of design plans and construction documents. The successful candidate will work with our multidisciplinary team of scientists, landscape architects, and engineers to support design work for stream and wetland restoration, watershed planning, stormwater management, and green infrastructure projects.

Biohabitats works with public, private, and not-for-profit clients to restore and regenerate life-supporting ecological processes and create a world of abundant biodiversity, climate resilience, environmental justice, and clean water. Our shared mission to restore the earth and inspire ecological stewardship serves as the foundation for our practice, while self-management, wholeness, and evolutionary purpose define our culture. As a perpetual purpose trust owned company, Biohabitats’ commitment to nature is resolute.

Required Skills, Experience, and Knowledge

Applied design experience related to: stream, wetland, and shoreline restoration; stormwater management; and green infrastructure projects.

Understanding and applied experience in supporting aspects of design projects from concept through construction drawings and implementation.

Proficient in the use of AutoCAD and Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).

Knowledge and applied experience using hydrologic and hydraulic modeling programs for design projects (e.g., TR-55/TR-20, HEC-RAS, SWMM, HydroCAD).

Strong written and oral communication skills.

Ability to support or lead field assessments under a variety of weather and site conditions.

Ability to self-manage and work both independently and in a collaborative, team environment.

Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

Preferred Skills, Experience, and Knowledge

Experience with geomorphic assessments, BANCS, stream functional or condition assessment methods (FCAM).

Knowledge of local, state, and federal permitting processes.

Familiarity and experience with ArcGIS and associated applications.

Experience with Chesapeake Bay and local Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) and NPDES compliance.

Restoration construction oversight experience.

Familiarity with coastal systems, processes, and modeling.

Willingness to periodically travel to the Great Lakes and other Bioregions.

Education

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in relevant engineering or equivalent field (e.g., Civil, Environmental, Biological Systems or Ecological Engineering). Professional experience designing stream restoration projects is required.

Position Summary

Reporting to Audubon Delta’s Senior Director, Conservation, the Center Manager oversees all aspects of the Center operations. The position will work with the Audubon Delta team and partners to protect, enhance, and restore habitat for birds and other wildlife and utilize the experience to inform and educate local and regional communities to help conserve working landscape in the region, as well as manage fishery and wildlife resources as part of the Coldwater River Watershed. This position will work closely with our science and conservation teams to identify and implement research and conservation projects at the site. They will also work in the local community to establish relationships with stakeholders such as state and regional government, businesses, and community groups that are partners and/or supporters of Strawberry Plains Audubon Center (SPAC). They will coordinate and collaborate with other staff to organize annual events like the Hummingbird festival at the Center and respond to conservation issues of local and regional concern. They are responsible for the care and maintenance of our physical facilities and equipment located at the Center.

Compensation: $63,000 – $71,000 / year

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences or related field required. A combination of education and experience will be considered.

Five years’ experience in land/facility management, wildlife conservation, and/or ecological restoration, or similar equivalent experience.

Three years’ experience managing staff required.

Must have in depth knowledge of the geography and landscape of Northern Mississippi including plant ecology, soil science, hydrology, restoration ecology, land management/conservation, and fire ecology and management.

Demonstrated ability to partner with key stakeholders such as community and agency personnel.

Strong project management skills, including but not limited to setting and implementing effective goals and objectives, problem-solving, time management, creating and maintaining collaborations with other organizations, preparing reports, etc.

Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentations, and the ability to build consensus among a wide array of individuals.

Able to use and maintain a variety of field and laboratory equipment such as audio and video recording devices, still photography equipment, land survey equipment, GPS devices, water metering devices, sampling equipment, etc.

Ability to manage and operate a wide variety of equipment necessary to conduct work on Center grounds. This includes but is not limited tractors, turf equipment, ATV’s and more.

Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Familiarity with ArcView/GIS software a plus.

Self‐motivated and willing to work in a flexible non‐structured environment.

Comfort and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrains. Able to physically lift up to 75 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Flexible availability with a willingness to work evenings and weekends if needed.

Must have valid Driver’s License in good standing.

Interest in and commitment to the mission of the organization.

Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Working for Los Angeles County Parks & Recreation offers the opportunity to be part of a department that stewards some of the region’s most treasured public spaces, including world-class botanical gardens, historic estates, vibrant community gardens, and educational nature centers. These gardens not only showcase diverse plant collections and natural habitats but also serve as living classrooms where visitors of all ages learn about conservation, sustainability, and the unique ecology of Southern California. By joining our team, you will help preserve these spaces, support environmental education, and provide meaningful recreational and cultural experiences that enhance the quality of life for millions of residents and visitors each year.

What does an Assistant Arboretum Gardener do?
Positions allocable to this class are regularly assigned to assist in the maintenance and development of one or more planted sections which are curated to emulate geographical region from around the world and/or other specialized planting of a botanical garden, display garden, or nature center.

Essential Job Functions

Plants, transplants, irrigates, fertilizes, sprays, weeds, prunes, stakes, trains and ties flowers, plants, shrubs, and trees.
Uses hand tools such as, pruners, rakes, shovels and related power equipment including chainsaws, weedeaters, blowers, brush clippers.
Learns plant identification and botanical names in connection with gardening work in order to assist in observing the condition and needs of plants under care and take action, under direction, to vary or initiate watering, fertilizing, and pest control methods.
Mixes and applies pesticides, fertilizers, and growth regulators.
Plants, cultivates, mows, edges, weeds, sprays, fertilizes, and renovates lawn areas.
Trains volunteers and oversee grounds maintenance workers and/or other staff members and lead them in setting up tables and/or chairs and arranging plants for public events such as plant sales and classes, as needed.
Performs minor irrigation repair and irrigation controller programming, as needed.
Provides information to visitors regarding plant names or characteristics, as needed.

REQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY:

One year of gardening* experience in an arboretum, estate garden, botanical garden, retail nursery, or display-oriented public garden.
-OR-
Three (3) months of paid or unpaid experience in gardening* or plant nursery work* AND completion of nine (9) semester units or twelve (12) quarter units of botany, horticulture, landscape design, or related subjects at an accredited college.**

DRIVER LICENSE:
A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to use an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related duties.