Bumble Bee Technician

JOIN US!

Come join a team of conservation professionals at the Xerces Society who are dedicated to protecting some of the world’s most important animals. We are seeking a temporary, full-time technician level position to assist with fieldwork and provide support to our bumble bee conservation program.

At Xerces, we harness the knowledge of scientists and the enthusiasm of the public to implement conservation programs. We take action by helping farms and public agencies develop conservation plans for pollinators and beneficial insects, producing ground-breaking publications on insect conservation, training thousands of farmers and land managers to protect and manage habitat for beneficial insects, protecting endangered species and their habitat, and engaging the public to raise awareness about invertebrates found on farms, forests, prairies, deserts, streams, wetlands, towns and cities. Our methods focus on habitat conservation planning, education, scientific analysis, advocacy, and applied research to conserve invertebrates, such as bees, butterflies, mollusks, and fireflies.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING: 

The position will work with our Endangered Species Conservation Biologist to conduct bumble bee and butterfly surveys that seek to detect at-risk species. This position will require approximately two consecutive weeks of travel per month in June, July, and August, weekends included. In addition to fieldwork, this position will provide support for Xerces Society’s Bumble Bee Atlas program, which may include leading or assisting with training events, communicating with and supporting volunteers, developing social media content, maintaining the project website, and verifying bumble bee observations.

Duties will be primarily focused on conducting fieldwork, with additional duties to support our greater bumble bee conservation program. This position will report to the Xerces Society’s Endangered Species Conservation Biologist (Lincoln, NE office) with input from the Bumble Bee Program Lead (Portland, OR office) and work in collaboration with other Endangered Species team staff, federal and state agencies, universities, and local land managers.

The successful candidate must have prior experience conducting remote field work, netting insects, be able to carry 30 pounds over uneven terrain, and navigate using GPS technology. Prior experience collecting and identifying bumble bees or butterflies is strongly preferred.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct fieldwork alongside Xerces Society Endangered Species Conservation Biologist.
  • Follow oral and written directions and perform routine and repetitive work in a punctual, organized, and dependable manner.
  • Maintain focus and attention to detail while potentially working in inclement conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and with biting or stinging insects.
  • Collect and submit data following Bumble Bee Atlas protocol.
  • Travel up to 14 consecutive days per month from June thru August, locations may include western Nebraska, western South Dakota, and eastern Wyoming.
  • Collaboratively work with Xerces Society Endangered Species Program staff to support bumble bee conservation program as needed.
  • Communicate professionally and respectfully with new and returning Bumble Bee Atlas volunteers.
  • Deliver or assist with Bumble Bee Atlas training events.
  • Develop or review content for digital media (e.g. social media, eNewsletters).
  • Depending on experience, verify bumble bee photo-based observations.
  • Follow all applicable Xerces Society policies, including those related to overnight and remote fieldwork.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE:  

REQUIRED

  • Experience with remote fieldwork through rugged terrain
  • Experience with netting insects, particularly bumble bees or butterflies
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills
  • Working knowledge of pollinator diversity and ecology
  • Proficiency with common software applications (e.g., Google, Word, Excel, Canva)
  • Excellent written communication skills, including the ability to write clear emails for diverse audiences
  • Ability to follow policies that promote a safe working environment, including making informed, collaborative judgment calls in changing environments
  • Maintain a professional relationship with coworkers, landowners, and collaborators
  • Extremely dependable, motivated, and a self-starter
  • Ability and enthusiasm to work with diverse teams and constituents in a respectful, and inclusive fashion
  • Excellent organization skills and ability work independently on assigned tasks

PREFERRED

  • Ability to communicate scientific information to a wide range of audiences that may include agency biologists, conservation partners, and the public
  • Experience with catch-and-release bumble bee and/or butterfly surveys
  • Knowledge and experience identifying flowering plants that occur in the Great Plains
  • Knowledge of the Bumble Bee Atlas program
  • Knowledge of the ecology of pollinators, including the biology of native bees or butterflies
  • Basic understanding of threatened and endangered species issues, and at least a general awareness of the Endangered Species Act and the role of the US Fish and Wildlife Service

QUALIFICATIONS: 

REQUIRED

  • A high school diploma/GED and at least two years’ experience in a technician role or similar employment; or at least one year (greater than or equal to 30 credit hours) toward a two-, or four-year degree in conservation, ecology, biology, entomology, or similar relevant coursework. Please describe in your application package. Note: If using education to substitute for experience, you will be asked to provide transcripts (unofficial copies are okay).
  • Valid driver’s license in the United States and a motor vehicle records check prior to employment allowing employee to be insured under Xerces corporate liability insurance. Essential Functions of this position require the employee to drive a vehicle, and an offer of Employment will be contingent on this record check.
  • Must have current authorization to work in the United States with any employer. Visa sponsorship is not provided for this position.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Be able to perform the following with reasonable breaks and/or reasonable accommodations:

  • Operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a telephone, copy machine, and computer printer for periods of 1-8 hours.
  • Able to move and transport supplies, materials, and equipment weighing up to 30 lbs.
  • Occasionally to Frequently drive vehicle for periods of up to 8 hours.
  • Occasionally to Frequently work outdoors in the field for 1-10 hours per day, often in sparsely populated, remote locations and under potentially adverse or difficult conditions such as high heat and humidity, biting and stinging insects, or abrasive or poisonous vegetation, among others.
  • Occasionally to Frequently traverse across unpaved roads, walkways, unimproved trails, and other rugged terrain such as fields and prairies, wetlands, riparian areas, and livestock pastures carrying 30 pounds of material or equipment for, periods of up to 10 hours.
  • Travel overnight and occasionally on weekends for fieldwork and for other project assignments when necessary.

BENEFITS:

This temporary, seasonal position is eligible for Paid Time Off benefits accrued starting at a rate of 1.73 hours for every 30 hours of pay, but not for health flexible spending, or disability insurance benefits, or paid holidays.

MORE INFORMATION:

For more information on the Xerces Society and our programs, please see our website: www.xerces.org

LOCATION: Nebraska, Wyoming, or Colorado.

Selected candidate will conduct remote fieldwork with Xerces Society staff for approximately two weeks per month from June thru-August. Fieldwork locations include western Nebraska, western South Dakota, and eastern Wyoming. Candidates must also have a personal office location suitable for work purposes, with broadband internet access, and must work from a city/state location approved by Xerces as their assigned work location.

COMPENSATION: $23.50 per hour

STATUS & SCHEDULE: Hourly non-exempt, seasonal position, scheduled to work approx. 40 hours/week, weekend work required, holiday work may be requested as the field season requires.

JOB START DATE: June 1, 2026 to approx. September 30, 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 10, 2026

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

All applications must be submitted via our application website at: xerces.org/jobs. Xerces provides accommodations for the job application process if needed. If you need an accommodation to complete the job application process, please email reasonable.accomodation@xerces.org with your specific request.

TERMS:

The Xerces Society is an at-will employer. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

The Xerces Society is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

Natural Resource Specialist II – Watershed Restoration

Definition of Responsibility
Under general supervision, this position serves as a professional project manager within the Watershed Restoration Section’s Stream Restoration Program in the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability.

Essential Functions

Implements water quality and watershed improvement projects, such as stream restoration using approaches such as adaptive natural channel design and floodplain reconnection, to achieve pollutant reduction and ecological restoration.
Assists with resource assessment, prioritization, funding, design, technical review, permitting, construction and post construction monitoring of environmental capital projects.
Serves as lead project manager working collaboratively with professional design consultants, contractors, Federal and State Agencies, other professional staff and citizens of Baltimore County.
Oversees project funding and assists with grant management and Capital Budget programming.
Assists in the preparation of technical studies and reports on environmental problems.
Performs field assessments of existing and potential stream restoration projects.
Provides technical assistance to property owners requesting assistance with stream bank erosion.

Examples of Other Duties

Represents the department before community groups and serves as the department’s representative on intra-county, community, or other committees.
Assists other professionals in technical studies, research and preparation of reports.
Performs other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in environmental, regional, urban or city planning, or in a natural resource, environmental or a biological science.

Plus

Two years’ professional experience in a planning, science or related field.

Additional education in one of the areas listed may be substituted for the required experience on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

College coursework, internships and/or work experience instream restoration, watershed science, fluvial geomorphology, hydrology and hydraulics, water quality, and/or stream ecology.
Experience as a Project Manager/Stream Restoration Specialist managing environmental assessments and engineering plan development, including design, technical review, construction oversight, monitoring, and approval of capital stream restoration, water quality improvement BMPs, and floodplain/wetland creation.
Experience with negotiation and resolution of complex technical issues.
Ability to read and comprehend contracts, specifications, and construction plans

Salary: $60,729.00 – $69,269.00 Annually

Sr. Natural Resources Specialist

Summary: To support VDOT construction and maintenance programs and to protect the natural environment by providing sound engineering and environmental consultation and services.

How you will contribute:
Compensation Site Monitoring and Design: Develop wetland mitigation strategies, including the design of wetland compensation sites to facilitate the permitting of transportation projects. Identify potential mitigation alternatives and perform site selection in project development process. Study potential mitigation sites to evaluate feasibility, cost effective and constructability. Develop conceptual and final design, vegetation schedule, typical sections, outlet control structures, construction and vegetation notes, monitoring requirements and special provisions to facilitate construction of mitigation site. Design wetlands, stream and riparian restoration alternatives to meet permit requirements.
Environmental Liaison: Represent VDOT in resolving water quality permit issues and conditions with local, state and federal agencies throughout the project development process to ensure timely issuance of water quality permits. Act as Environmental Liaison, providing guidance throughout project development and construction processes regarding environmental, design and constructability issues. Provide expert technical advice to construction and maintenance personnel regarding on-going projects and activities to remain environmentally compliant on projects. Maintain knowledge of state and federal water quality laws and regulations to facilitate development of transportation projects.
Project Management: Provide leadership and environmental and engineering guidance district-wide related to design, water quality, erosion and sediment control, SWM, BMPs, and endangered and threatened species. Support project development and construction processes consistent with environmental regulations, policies, procedures and project schedules. Monitor and update CEDAR software program. Manage water quality portion of the district environmental program. Manage projects that have significant or complex water quality related issues to meet advertisement schedules.
Water Quality Permitting: Coordinate or conduct water quality field studies or surveys, biological impact studies and wetland delineations early in the project development process. Plan for and develop avoidance and minimization alternatives for environmental resources in the scoping phase of project development. Provide quality control for both VDOT and consultant water quality design submittals. Oversee development of permit packages. Assemble design and environmental data and prepare permit applications consistent with ad dates. Present projects at the Interagency Coordination Meeting and acquire permits to meet ad schedules.

What will make you successful:
Ability to apply civil engineering and environmental sciences in the design of wetlands, stream restoration, erosion and sediment control and BMPs.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse audiences and to make presentations and conduct meetings.
Ability to develop strategies to avoid, minimize and compensate for environmental impacts.
Ability to plan, organize and work on multiple task concurrently.
Ability to prepare conceptual designs and special contract provisions.
Ability to read, interpret and apply environmental laws and regulations to transportation projects.
Ability to work with the public on environmental issues.
Knowledge of NEPA, water quality permits, wetlands, stream stabilization, erosion and sediment control and storm water management laws, regulations and permit processes.
Knowledge of civil engineering, erosion and sediment control and storm water management.
Knowledge of environmental sciences, wetland sciences, and aquatic ecology, fisheries, hydrology, hydraulics and soil sciences.
Knowledge of federal and state environmental laws and regulations.
Knowledge of solid waste and hazardous materials, threatened and endangered species, pollution prevention, and cultural resources laws, regulations and permit processes.
Skill in the use of computers and software applications.
Skill in wetland delineation, soil taxonomy and plant identification, aquatic macro benthic identification and biological sampling protocols.

Minimum Qualifications:
Considerable knowledge of federal, state, local transportation, environmental rules, regulations, policies and practices.
Experience in the application of environmental requirements to transportation or similar operations.
Experience in wetland delineation and permitting.
Experience reading highway engineering plans.
Experience working with project proponents to avoid, minimize, and mitigate environmental impacts.
Skill in the use of computers and software applications.
Training and experience in construction inspection, asbestos safety awareness and hazard communications.

Hiring Range: $65,198.00 to $105,946.00

Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator

The Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator is a mission-critical, hands-on land management leader who plays a central role in advancing GPF’s conservation outcomes across East-Central Illinois.

With a primary focus on Warbler Ridge Conservation Area (~80% of work time), the Coordinator will intermittently conduct land management services across GPF’s 130-mile, (9) County service area in Central Illinois. This position partners closely with the GPF’s Natural Areas Manager to implement land management plans, lead stewardship operations, and ensure ecological integrity across GPF’s diverse portfolio of prairies, savannas, forests, and conservation lands.
Experience Target: At least three years at supervisor level within Natural Areas work; Staff Management experience.

Operations Lead, Global Ocean Conservation

Job Summary:

Under general supervision, manage the workflow of external agreements, contracts, publications, and funding arrangements, ensuring compliance with Monterey Bay Aquarium policies, and fulfilling reporting requirements. Develop and implement project tracking systems and monitor expenses against the annual budget. Synthesize and disseminate written monthly updates of all departmental activities to support our internal communication needs and external reporting obligations (requires a thorough and thoughtful approach to collecting information across teams, and servicing relationships with our network of global fellows, partners, and external vendors). Support meetings, events and workshops including logistics, materials preparation, note-taking, and meeting syntheses. Perform other duties as required. The position will be based in Monterey, California (hybrid).

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (KSAs):

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience in a related field
Minimum 3 years experience in project management and/or grant reporting/management in a non-profit organization
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
Demonstration of competent, professional writing skills, ideally with audience-focused pieces such as proposals, reports, letters, and fundraising materials
Proficient with project management, financial, and customer relationship management platforms
Strong organization, communication, facilitation, and active listening skills
Proven ability to work effectively and efficiently under multiple, competing deadlines
Ability to communicate effectively, diplomatically, honestly, and sensitively with all levels of management and staff
Demonstrated initiative, flexibility, and ability to work collaboratively
Ability to travel domestically and internationally
Ability to work within and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Core Values

Physical Requirements to Perform Essential Job Functions:

Typical office equipment
Constant sitting, standing, walking, bending
Occasional unassisted lifting up to 50 lbs.
Typical office environment, main aquarium and exhibits, occasional offsite events

Annual Compensation Range:
$70,304 – $84,000 USD annually. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.

SC Habitat Specialist

This position is part of a partnership between Pheasants and Quail Forever (QF), The Longleaf Alliance, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), and The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and several other agencies. Under the direction of the Quail Forever SC Prescribed Fire Coordinator, incumbents will conduct prescribed fire and habitat management work on cooperating private land as well as targeted public lands within designated priority geographies within South Carolina as part of the state’s Quail management program. These positions are full-time, permanent employees of Quail Forever and will receive daily leadership from QF staff. This position will be in the Columbia, SC area. This position is currently funded through Sept 30, 2027. The continuation of the position is dependent on the acquisition of additional funding.

Job Duties:

The incumbents will conduct wildlife habitat management practices throughout multiple priority areas. Major responsibilities include:

Implementing Prescribed Fire and habitat management work on cooperating private landowners as well as public lands.
Occasionally assist with northern bobwhite quail and other grassland bird surveys, including but not limited to spring breeding bird surveys, fall covey counts, vegetation surveys, and management of automated recording units (ARU) on private and conservation lands.
Procuring supplies and equipment.
Providing public information.
Participating in scientific field studies and surveys.
Attending/Assisting with prescribed fire and other habitat management technique training.

Other duties may include Firebreak rehabilitation and maintenance, light to medium herbicide work, and other various land management activities.
Job may require odd hours and travel/time away from home.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

A basic understanding of environmental, agricultural and/or natural resource science. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the partners. Preference will be given to candidates that possess an associate degree or higher with an emphasis in wildlife management.
Experience conducting prescribed fire safely and effectively, operating ATVs and Side by Sides while conducting prescribed burns, identification and control of invasive weeds and other undesired vegetation.
Safe transportation/hauling of equipment.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and partner agencies.
Ability to work independently with little supervision.
Knowledge of wildlife ecology, grassland management, and/or forest management including the ability to utilize various habitat management equipment and tools in the development of wildlife habitat.
Excellent verbal/written communication and organizational skills.
Valid driver’s license required.
Applicants may be required to obtain a private pesticide applicators license and prescribed fire training.
Overall, this position will require a hard worker who is not afraid to get their hands dirty and comes to work each day with a can-do attitude and the energy and passion to do whatever it takes to get the job done!

Education and Experience Preferred: Any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the applicant to possess the required knowledge, skills and abilities. One year of work experience in wildlife management or agricultural related job. Applicants who possess an associate degree in Forestry or Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field and/or related field experience are preferred.

Salary Range: $40,000 – $44,000

Vice President, Species Conservation and Coexistence

The Vice President for Species Conservation and Coexistence directs Defenders’ regional and field work to conserve priority species and advance national policy priorities, including those pertaining to wildlife-human coexistence. The Vice President ensures effective on the ground implementation of priority species conservation plans and related imperiled wildlife conservation programs and campaigns. These plans and programs involve a wide range of policy, legal, advocacy and scientific strategies to conserve wildlife.

Priority areas include protecting and restoring threatened and endangered species; promoting coexistence efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflicts; influencing federal, state and tribal administrative and legislative initiatives impacting wildlife, habitat, and other natural resources; working on federal, state and tribal land management issues impacting sensitive wildlife species; maintaining and enhancing the ecological integrity of priority wildlife habitat; reforming state wildlife agencies and commissions; promoting environmentally responsible renewable energy development; and maintaining and enhancing the conservation of biodiversity in general. Working closely with the President & CEO, Senior Vice President for Conservation Programs and other senior leadership, the Vice President is committed to advancing Defenders’ strategic plan goals and objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Works closely with the President & CEO, Senior Vice President for Conservation Programs, and other members of Defenders’ senior leadership, to provide leadership direction on matters involving Defenders’ organization, programs and culture.
Provides leadership and supervision for our species conservation and coexistence work. Working with Field Directors and conservation program vice presidents, prioritize and develop short- and long-range strategic plan objectives, organizational structure, and department staffing and budget requirements.
In consultation with Defenders’ leadership and other departments, develops wildlife conservation policy positions for imperiled species to achieve Defenders’ strategic goals and priorities.
Oversees Defenders’ wildlife conservation and coexistence programs to provide for the long-term conservation of imperiled species and other wildlife.
Works with federal agencies, Congress, state agencies, tribes, private landowners, and non-governmental organizations to develop and implement national policies that promote human-wildlife coexistence strategies.
Directs, coordinates, and/or assists Defenders’ advocacy efforts to influence legislation, regulatory processes, agency policies, and land management plans that affect imperiled species and/or involve issues that span multiple regions.
Represents Defenders in public meetings, hearings, press events, conferences, coalitions, and in general communications with public officials, legislators, the news media, Defenders’ membership, the donor community, and the public.
Develops and effectively manages the annual budgets for all of the Field program regions (both restricted and unrestricted funding).
Works with the Development and Marketing departments to raise funds for species conservation and coexistence programs.
Ensures optimum performance for individuals and group function. Recommends and implements techniques to improve productivity, increase efficiencies, and maintain state-of-the-art practices for the department.
Ensures communication of duties and responsibilities to direct reports and monitor performance. Provide regular coaching and counseling. Identify training needs. Prepare and deliver salary and performance reviews; review and approve performance and salary appraisals as necessary. Working with the Human Resources department, resolve staff disciplinary issues.
This position requires regular travel.
Perform all other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor’s degree in relevant field required; advanced degree preferred

Experience: 15 years; 7 years supervisory; 5 years managing 2+ layers

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.

Salary Range: $165,000.00 To $185,000.00 Annually

Conservation Projects Coordinator

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee (the Society) is seeking a Conservation Projects Coordinator to join a fun and talented team of professionals in supporting one of the most cherished community assets – the Milwaukee County Zoo. This role supports our conservation strategy to save wildlife and wild places locally and across the globe by leading and partnering on projects. Specifically, this position coordinates projects that raise public awareness of wildlife conservation, convenes partners to deliver effective conservation actions and enhances our role as a wildlife conservation leader. This position provides operational and administrative support for conservation projects, including tracking and communicating detailed information about partners, project needs, annual work plans, timelines, results, funding requirements, protocols, schedules and other critical information that aid in effective project coordination. As part of the programs department, this position works closely with the Milwaukee County Zoo to inspire and empower all members of our community to take conservation action.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in conservation or a related degree (ecology, wildlife biology, zoology, etc.).
Two years of experience organizing and sharing detailed, complex information.
Ability to read and understand scientific papers.
Demonstrated experience coordinating projects.
Proven ability to work independently and in teams.
Proven ability to prioritize and plan work activities and use time efficiently to meet deadlines.
Demonstration of excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills; Spanish or second language fluency a plus.
Knowledge of zoo, aquarium, or museum education and related accreditation processes a plus.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; proficiency in additional collaboration platforms and/or resource scheduling tools preferred.
Ability to frequently travel off-site to program sites, meetings and professional opportunities (with occasional out-of-town and overnight commitments).
Ability to work flexible hours based upon performance requirements, including occasional weekend, late afternoon, and/or pre-designated holiday hours.

This is a full-time position eligible for a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, complimentary dental, vision, life, STD and LTD coverage, 401k with up to a 5% match, PTO, paid holidays, and a complimentary Zoo Pass, up to the Household level.

Stewardship Director

The Stewardship Director plays a central role in shaping how Skagit Land Trust fulfills its permanent conservation commitments.

The Stewardship Director works closely with the Executive Director, other department directors, staff, board members, and the organization’s Stewardship Committee to ensure that the Trust’s stewardship program remains strong, credible, and sustainable as the organization grows. The Stewardship Director also collaborates across departments to align program needs and goals.

This role requires the ability to think strategically about land stewardship, including protecting and restoring habitat and ecosystem function, evaluating risks, identifying opportunities and overseeing plans for both immediate and long-term land management. Maintaining a long-term perspective in a landscape of competing stewardship needs is essential.

Qualifications

At least five years of management-level experience in land conservation, natural resources management, restoration, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated success supervising professional staff and managing multiple projects with varying timelines, priorities and resources.
Strong project management and people management skills, including the ability to establish budgets, set priorities, delegate effectively, and maintain progress across simultaneous projects.
Experience managing local, state and federal grants is desirable.
Experience working with long-term nonprofit boards, committees, engaged volunteers, or community partners is desirable.
Strong situational judgment, including the ability to assess risk, identify potential hazards, and make sound decisions in both field and office settings.
Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic communication skills, including conflict management, that foster positive relationships with staff, board members, and external stakeholders.
Enthusiasm for working with volunteers and engaging community members in stewardship activities.
Ability to work effectively in multiple environments, including the field, office, and public meetings or events.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout Skagit County to visit conservation properties.
Physical ability to conduct regular fieldwork year-round in a variety of weather conditions. This includes navigating uneven terrain off-trail and carrying approximately 25 pounds of tools and field equipment over distances of several miles. Occasionally heavier items may need to be lifted for short periods.
Proficiency with databases and standard office software (Skagit Land Trust currently uses Salesforce and Microsoft Office tools).
Familiarity with GIS mapping tools such as ESRI ArcGIS software.
Familiarity with tools and equipment used in conservation and land management.
Bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, natural resources, environmental science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Additional qualifications that strengthen an application include:

Familiarity with invasive plant management, including both manual and chemical control methods.
Knowledge of Pacific Northwest ecosystems, flora, and fauna.
Experience with multi-partner habitat restoration projects.
Experience working with local governments, including tribes.

Horticulture Manager

This position is responsible for efficiently overseeing the day-to-day horticultural operation and care of the Milton and Catherine Hershey Conservatory and Butterfly Atrium, ensuring that the Conservatory provides an outstanding educational live butterfly exhibit and horticultural display. The Manager, Milton and Catherine Hershey Conservatory and Butterfly Atrium (Manager) leads a team of staff and volunteers in the care of the pupae, butterflies and other invertebrate species according to national and international codes, regulations and standards. Working in collaboration with the Horticulture team, performs duties associated with the maintenance and care of conservatory plant displays. The Manager works in collaboration with the Manager of Education and Public Programs on the layout and installation of special events to be held in the conservatory. He/she provides information for budgets, coordinates work schedules, completes staff performance evaluations, and supervises special projects. The Manager must be able to work as part of a team of horticulturists, educators, special event coordinators, and Hershey Gardens/Foundation staff to successfully meet the mission of Hershey Gardens. This position will also serve as Manager on Duty when required.

Summary of Duties

Leads a team that provides care and handling of the pupae and adult butterflies and other insect species; responsible for implementing protocols and operating procedures to maintain a high level of sanitation, care and safety of butterflies.

Supervises staff, volunteers and student workers, including hiring, training, work allocation, and evaluations. Develops performance goals, creates and maintains daily work schedules, reviews and approves time sheets. Ensures that all applicable safety standards are followed and adjusts work methods to reduce hazards. Reports accidents and injuries immediately. Ensures compliance with the USDA-APHIS-PPQ permit and other codes, regulations and standards and assists with permit renewal process.

Works with the Director of Horticultural Operations and Horticultural staff to monitor conservatory plant health, maintain conservatory plant collections and correct labeling. Under the guidance of the Director of Horticultural Operations, develops and coordinates planting plans for the conservatory’s landscape and seasonal displays. Collaborates to design and develop high quality plant displays to educate visitors. Assists in managing an IPM pest control program ensuring that conservatory plants are pest free. Assist with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned, including snow removal. Work may be performed in a variety of outdoor and indoor environments and weather conditions.

Provides information on conservatory expenses for inclusion into annual budget, ensures department operates within approved budget, completes purchase orders, and assigns material costs to suitable accounts.Further the Garden’s mission through teaching classes, leading tours, writing articles, giving garden club talks, participating in regional outreach events, and providing excellent customer service at all times.

Monitors temperature, humidity, ventilation, and light levels under the direction of an authorized user to ensure optimal plant health conditions.Ensures that conservatory equipment is functioning and, if needed, completes maintenance requests for repairs.

Minimum Skills

● Strong leadership, team-management and interpersonal skills including clear verbal and written communication skills.

● Comfortable handling insects and invertebrates, including dispatching specimens that may be injured or diseased.

● Proficient in Microsoft and Google suites of products.

● Working knowledge of safe operating procedures for various types of garden maintenance equipment.

● Understanding of Federal, State and local laws, regulations and standards for the ethical and humane treatment of animals in education.

● Working knowledge of budget development, management and forecasting.

● Scheduling flexibility that allows working weekends, evenings, holidays and special events as needed.

● Need to be able to move between Foundation and entities.

● Requires physical effort including lifting up to 25 pounds and extended periods of standing or walking, pushing, pulling and handling manual labor tasks.

Education and Experience Requirements
B.S. degree in Horticulture, Biology, Botany, Science and/or related field required. An equivalent combination of skills, education and experience may be considered.

Minimum of (5) five years of practical, relevant work experience. Preferred experience with growing tropical plants in an indoor environment. Previous experience with live animal care. Minimum (3) years’ experience in personnel management including demonstrated abilities in staff support, development, and conflict resolution.

This position requires criminal history background checks in addition to child abuse background checks as a condition of employment.

Candidates must possess a valid PA driver’s license.