Job Tag: Conservation

This professional horticultural position oversees the city gardens, parks, lawns, and public grounds. Work involves responsibility for performing skilled horticultural tasks and directs employees to maintain grounds and other landscapes of City-owned properties. An employee in this class uses independent judgment and discretion to advise and supervise the quantity and quality control of the department. Assignments are generally received indicating the location of work and results desired, and work is subject to review upon completion by the Parks Supervisor. The employee in this position requires creative talents to initiate and carry to completion major beautification projects for the City of Lakeland.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Reviews general program results with employees, counseling on objectives and major procedures; determines or recommends revisions in work priorities and reassignments of personnel and equipment by working with the Parks Specialist and the Parks Supervisor.
Prepares project and operations budget; analyzes financial information for future construction and maintenance program needs.
Supervises the rate of expenditures within the parks beautification program; reports necessary or desirable changes in utilization of resources to meet changing work requirements or financial circumstances.
Supervises training and safety programs for employees in ground maintenance, use of equipment, chemical spraying, horticulture, and arboriculture.
Prepares and submits periodic detailed reports relating to division activities.
Plans and design parks and recreation areas and facilities include the design and preparation of plans, drawings, and sketches.
Prepares estimates, specifications, documents, and written reports concerning park development and/or improvements.
Inspects construction in progress.
Operates trucks, tractors, aerators, thatchers, mowers, and other light equipment.
Locates plant sources and compiles bid specifications.
Assigns, leads, trains, and assists Parks Division employees and volunteers assigned to grounds maintenance duties, including, but not limited to, planting, transplanting, renovating, pruning of shrubs and trees, mowing, edging, blowing, irrigation installation, and maintenance.
Ensures that needed supplies and materials are stocked.
Performs the more skilled gardening and pruning work; chooses the proper fertilizers to be used and designates schedules for applications.
Prepares and applies mixtures of fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and other chemical compounds used in gardening and landscaping.
Confers with the Parks Supervisor, the Parks and Recreation Director, and others in developing facilities and programs.
Provides landscape and tree mitigation consultation for commercial and subdivision plans before implementation.
Conducts Code Enforcement inspections to ensure the City Ordinances are met in dealing with commercial violations.
Oversees and supervises Ground Maintenance Supervisors in the Nursery, Landscape Crew and Hollis Gardens.
Conducts community outreach presenting to groups and schools.
Assigns Storm Team in an emergency.
Maintains and sustains the City’s Tree City USA status.
Organizes Memorial tree plantings and Arbor Day tree plantings with various groups and individuals.
Curates the city-wide International Arboretum and its various collections.
Works with ArcGIS mapping system to keep the digital arboretum maps up to date.
Compiles an arboretum collections policy for review.
Works towards increased levels of the arboretum.
Plans future collections and additions.
Serves as an expert for the arboretum.
May be required to work alternate hours as necessary for the efficient operation of the department.
Position is designated as Mission Critical by Department Director.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:

Prepares and submits grant applications of state and federal improvement/construction funds.
Provides and interprets landscape inspections to the public for commercial site plan review and construction. Exercises independent judgement daily to comply with the Land Development Code.
Acts as department representative on the City Beautification Board.
Supervises and coordinates the activities of consultants and/or contractors.
Speaks to interested parties as a member of the City of Lakeland speaker bureau.
Performs related work as required.

QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE)

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four (4) year college with major coursework in Park Management, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, Urban Forestry, or a related field.
Three (3) years of experience in landscape construction.
Two (2) years of experience in plant production.
Two (2) years of supervisory experience.

Performs responsible clerical, technical, and customer service work in the review of commercial and residential building permit applications for compliance with Pinellas County development standards and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements and maintains records and documents that ensure the community is eligible to participate in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and Community Rating System (CRS). Explains floodplain development requirements to applicants and the general public as requested. Under direction of the Building Official, work is performed with considerable independence on program matters but problems encountered of an unusual nature are referred to more senior officials.

What Would You Do?

Assists Floodplain Administrator in the coordination of the County’s Floodplain Management Program ensuring that the county meets Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s minimum National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) participation requirements and compliance with Pinellas County Chapter 158 – Floodplain Management;
Provides ongoing record management and documentation development required for participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and Community Rating System (CRS);
Establishes Base Flood Evaluations and prohibits development within floodways;
Reviews, and maintains floodplain-related construction certificates (i.e., elevation certificates, V-Zone certificates, etc.) in accordance with the Pinellas County Floodplain Related Construction Certificates Management Plan (FRCCMP);
Utilizes ArcGIS web maps to make flood hazard determinations including, but not limited to, flood zone and Base Flood Elevation (BFE) determinations;
Completes flood information reports for inquiries;
Maintains and organizes hard-copies of flood hazard maps, letter of map changes (LOMC), floodplain-related construction certificates, flood insurance studies (FIS), and any other flood hazard related maps;
Provides report of permitting and construction cost history for substantial damage/substantial improvement determinations;
Assists FEMA and State Flood Manager representatives during Community Assistance Visits (CAV), CRS program reviews, and floodplain management program activities;
Responds to inquiries from citizens and other departments regarding floodplain management principles;
Performs other related job duties as assigned.

What Do You Need To Have?

High School diploma/GED and four (4) years’ professional experience in one or more of the following: building or construction plan review, elevation certificate review, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements, Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) interpretation or assisting in the development and implementation of other floodplain management-related programs;
OR an Associate degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in floodplain management, emergency management, planning, environmental studies, engineering, hydrology/hydraulics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), governmental studies or a related field and two (2) years’ experience as described above;
Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.

Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) certificate within one (1) year of hire or promotion into the position.
Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida Driver’s License upon hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report.
Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.
Other knowledge, skills, abilities, and credentials required for a specific position.

This position is responsible for working with the conservation team on day to day operations including, but not limited to, leading conservation and trail projects, implementing trail infrastructure construction, coordinating projects on the Burlington Greenway, 30+ miles of public trails, Burlington Area Community Gardens, and other tasks within City natural areas and open spaces. This position may also support winter recreation management in natural areas and trail surfaces.

Union Affiliation: Non-Union
Pay Grade: $19.65 – $21.50 Hourly
Remote Tier 1: Zero (0) days remote/week
Essential Job Functions

Support the conservation team with day-to-day operations
Lead a small crew of seasonal staff and volunteers on conservation and trail projects in natural areas and along the Greenway
Maintain the Greenway and natural surface trails
Maintain Greenway and trail areas through vegetation management, invasive species management, trail construction and repairs, and trail infrastructure improvements using a utility vehicle, power mower, trimmers and other maintenance equipment
Collect and remove trash from trails and other park properties
Assist in graffiti removal such as painting, power washing, and chemical removal of damage
Safely utilize power equipment and hand tools for brush clearing, vista clearing, tree and shrub maintenance, and other land management tasks.
Monitor trails and park properties for safety issues, invasive species, storm damage, repair needs, etc.
Assist in parks sign management such as fabrication, installation, repair, and design
Assist in coordinating volunteer groups as needed
Implement tool service and maintenance tasks on all equipment
Coordinate acquiring, organizing and moving appropriate tools based on tasks
Assist with project budgeting
Assist with other parks projects and activities as needed

Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements

Ability to actively support City diversity, equity, and cultural competency efforts within stated job responsibilities and work effectively across diverse cultures and constituencies.
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as evidenced by ongoing trainings and professional development.
Minimum 1 year experience in the fields of conservation, landscaping, land management, or other related field.
Basic knowledge of trail design, maintenance, and construction of trail infrastructure preferred
Safely operate equipment including trucks, trailers, push mowers, trimmers, blowers, power tools, and other construction and vegetation management equipment.
Effectively communicate with the public and volunteers about project details, site specifics, safety, the mission of the Parks conservation division, and create opportunities for educational programming.
Ability to work in all weather conditions
Ability to lift 50lbs
Interest in helping manage and steward Burlington’s natural areas and open spaces.
Identify and implement land management best practices, including invasive species management.
Ability to use GIS to create maps and compile data is recommended. Basic computer skills required.
Work both as part of a team and independently
Valid driver’s license with no suspensions for the past two years.
Operation of a City vehicle or personal vehicle to conduct City business without providing proof of a valid driver’s license to Human Resources will not be permitted. A valid driver’s license shall be defined as a current state of residence-issued license to operate a motor vehicle on public roadways. Position also requires the ability to be covered under the City’s vehicle insurance policy prior to operation of any City vehicles or non-City vehicles for City business

The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has been dedicated to protecting and restoring the region’s exceptional natural places since 1932. As a member-based nonprofit organization, we work in cities and towns across Western Pennsylvania and rely on the help of thousands of members, partners and volunteers. We are making a difference in our region’s water, land and life. We do this work for the benefit of wildlife and people who call Western Pennsylvania home, and for future generations.

We are seeking an individual to fill the position of Watershed Riparian Coordinator. This position promotes and implements riparian forest buffer restoration projects to constituents throughout western and central Pennsylvania, and continues the development and coordination of a Riparian Stewards program to engage volunteers in post-planting riparian establishment. The person in this position reports to the Watershed Project Manager II.

Job Duties

Promotes and performs outreach watershed and riparian best management practices to PA landowners and stakeholders, with a focus in western Pennsylvania.
Responds to landowner requests for technical assistance and assists in identifying appropriate funding sources for implementation projects on their properties.
Develops planting plans and landowner agreements for riparian restoration projects.
Assists with riparian project design, bidding, and purchase of consumable materials related to implementation riparian practices in close coordination with the Watershed Project Manager.
Physically installs and maintains riparian restoration sites with assistance from Watershed Conservation Program staff, volunteers, interns, and AmeriCorps service members.
Volunteer recruitment, coordination, and training, with focus on the development of a pilot program related to riparian buffer post planting care throughout western PA with initial focus in a 6-county area surrounding Indiana County.
Serves as volunteer project leader on-site.
Provides oversight and guidance of the work of volunteers during the installation and monitoring of riparian projects, and evaluates the performance of volunteers.
Supports long-term maintenance of new and existing riparian restoration project sites.
Explores opportunities for Lawn to Habitat funding and projects.
Participates in field assessment and data collection related to current and innovative riparian restoration practices and works with WPC staff on riparian watershed conservation-related issues as needed.
Develops and maintains regional collaborations/partnerships and participates in regional partner projects and initiatives.
Reflects organizational spirit, culture and objectives in activities performed on WPC’s behalf. Acts in WPC’s best interest at all times.
Assists with tracking and reporting implementation of watershed and riparian restoration practices.
Assists with grant application development and reporting.
Administrative responsibilities associated with the duties outlined above.
Performs additional duties and responsibilities as required.

Physical Requirements

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
Ability to work outside in occasionally adverse conditions to plant and maintain tree seedlings.
Ability to traverse difficult/uneven terrain.
Ability to wade in flowing water.
Ability to transition between office work and field work.
Physical stamina and ability to sit, bend and stand for 8+ hours a day.
Requires stooping, kneeling, crawling, bending, turning and reaching overhead, and at and below eye level. There may be full range of body motion for extended periods of time.
Physical stamina for manual labor working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

Qualifications

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted

Ability to work outside in occasionally adverse conditions to plant and maintain tree seedlings.

Ability to traverse difficult/uneven terrain.

Ability to wade in flowing water.

Ability to transition between office work and field work.

Physical stamina and ability to sit, bend, and stand for 8+ hours a day.

Requires stooping, kneeling, crawling, bending, turning, and reaching overhead, at, and below eye level. (full range of body motion for extended periods of time.)

Physical stamina for manual labor working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

Position Duration

This is a full-time opportunity which includes a comprehensive benefits package.
Additional Details

This is a field-based position, with the department located in the Indiana, PA office.
Pay

$46,400 – $55,300 per year

Reporting to the Chief Resilience Officer and receiving general direction from the Grant Implementation Team (Director of Community Services, Director of Public Works, and Chief Resiliency Officer), coordinate the implementation of the City of Ukiah’s Climate Resilient Forest three-year grant program. Assist in the recruitment, hiring, and supervision of two full-time urban forest technicians. Coordinate and assure completion of all grant goals. Work with the Grant Implementation team (GIT) to assure accurate and timely grant reporting.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed in positions allocated to this class. The examples of work performed are neither restricted to nor all-encompassing of the duties to be performed under this job title.

Coordinate implementation of the three project phases including 1) Planning and Development, 2) Community Engagement, and 3) Implementation.
Work with the Grant Implementation Team (GIT) to recruit and hire two full-time urban forest technicians.
Assist in coordinating the work of two full-time urban forest technicians.
Assist urban forest technicians in the planting and care of trees and plants.
Work with the GIT and the City’s procurement team to purchase program supplies.
Coordinate and ensure the success of the Project Objectives.
Maintain records of grant activities and complete grant reports under the general direction of the GIT.
Engage directly with the city’s underserved and disinvested communities to better understand community needs and priorities, and to co-develop equitable strategies for building resilience through implementation of grant goals.
Conduct education and outreach to residents, tribes, schools, nonprofits, and businesses to improve their understanding of the benefits and importance of trees from a climate action and resilience perspective.
Increase the number of trees and the overall size of the tree canopy in the City of Ukiah urban forest to improve air quality, reduce urban heat effects, increase shade, remove/replace impervious surfaces with a mixture of trees, vegetation, and cool pavement surfaces, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Maximize carbon sequestration in urban trees, vegetation, and soils.
Expand the City’s tree nursery program to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience.
Implement and validate climate-smart forestry practices for incorporation into the City’s Approved Tree List, Tree Management Guidelines, Urban Forest Management Plan, and Tree Protection Ordinance.
Work with the City’s GIS specialist to map the City’s Urban Forest.
Respond to emergency calls after normal duty hours.
Work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Urban forestry, urban planning, and/ or principles of climate resilience.
Principles of community outreach and engagement.
Methods, tools, techniques, and supplies used in landscaping maintenance work.
Basic characteristics of plant and tree pests and diseases.
Plant use and maintenance.
Safe work practices.
Grant management and reporting.

Ability to:

Perform a wide variety of park maintenance work.
Operate the hand and power tools and equipment required in general grounds maintenance work
Perform heavy manual labor and lift up to 50 pounds.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Accommodate outside work in extreme weather conditions.

Education and Experience:
A.S. degree with at least two years’ relevant work experience and a certificate or license in arboriculture, horticulture, forestry, or related field; or B.S. degree in forestry, horticulture, arboriculture, or related field with at least one year of relevant work experience (preferred).

Necessary Special Requirements:

QWEL certification within 6 months of hire.
Ability to work schedule in coordination with Horticulturists and/or Wild Gardens Manager.
C.P.R. and Standard First Aid certification, preferred.

Reporting directly to Environmental Programs Director and Parks Department Assistant Director, responsible for assisting the Director(s) with the overall management and internal processes needed to manage Williamson County preserves supporting the Regional Habitat Conservation Plan and the Williamson County regional trail system. Directs the work of staff, consultants/contractors, volunteers, and researchers on the preserves and assisting in the management and implementation of trails and preserves projects. Assists in ensuring reporting and compliance requirements are met and takes the lead on special projects as assigned by the Director(s).

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

Tracks and manages assigned budgets related to facility trails, and grounds maintenance

Assists the management of shaded fuel break and restoration forestry projects, riparian enhancements, and rangeland management
Plans and coordinates stewardship and habitat restoration activities
Oversees statistical research and record-keeping, data updating and input, grant seeking, inventory completion, and project completion
Creates and organizes volunteer and/or consultant efforts for studies, wildlife inventories, surveys, trail maintenance, and restoration efforts
Manages, conducts, and assists with maintenance tasks, compliance, and facility and grounds improvements
Performs trail building and maintenance, signage and boundary posting, building and facilities maintenance, equipment/vehicle inspection and maintenance, etc.
Provides department leadership with insight on safety measures essential for staff, facilities, and the public
Conducts inspections of preserve facilities, trails, and assets
Utilizes Geographic Information System (GIS) to conduct resource assessments, impact analysis, and prepare reports/permits
Sets up studies for restoration and baseline monitoring projects per direction from the Director
Collects field data with GPS unit and conducts analysis with GIS as needed
Creates, collaborates, and implements safety training and programs
Administers and provides department onboarding and annual training related to vehicles, equipment, and safety
Maintains records of department staff licensing and certifications
Provides recommendations and assistance in annual budget process by collaborating with department leadership on operations and equipment needs
Utilizes P-card and other approved purchasing methods to purchase supplies, materials, parts, tools, and equipment essential for operations
Develops and maintains operational routines and procedures for equipment, including organizing, storing, and arranging inventory for daily use
Ensures efficiency through effective resource planning, resource productivity, and allocation; assist Director(s) in developing comprehensive work plans, documentation, and schedules
Provides leadership and management for trails and preserves staff
Performs department internal project management, supervision, and leadership
Ensures department compliance with various regulatory environmental, health and safety requirements
Attends all meetings and trainings as required
Performs special duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences, Public Administration, Parks and Recreation, Agriculture and Life Sciences, Public Relations or a related field AND three (3) years of program management experience including budgetary/finance responsibilities and supervision; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
Two (2) years of related work experience
Demonstrated land navigation skills
Prior experience towing trailers and equipment
Prior experience operating small tools and equipment
Basic knowledge and operation of Microsoft Office Suite, ArcPro, and Adobe

The Wilderness Society (TWS) is a leading conservation organization working to protect America’s wild places and public lands for the benefit of local communities, wildlife, and the climate. Founded in 1935, and now with more than one million members and supporters, The Wilderness Society has led the effort to permanently protect 111 million acres of wilderness and to ensure the sound management of America’s public lands. TWS is scaling up its work to address the existential threat of climate change, the loss of biodiversity, and deep inequities with access to the benefits of nature. TWS is working to achieve four major collective impact results: protecting 30 percent of America’s lands and waters by 2030, transitioning off fossil fuel development on public lands to well-sited renewable energy, securing equitable access to public lands and their benefits, and building a critical mass of support for conservation of public lands.

Position Overview

The California Conservation Manager will play a key role in advancing TWS’ mission of uniting people to protect wild places and our vision to create a future where people and wild nature flourish together, meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing planet. The Manager plays a key role in developing and implementing TWS’ projects and initiatives within the state, striving to make TWS a trusted collaborator with partners and decision makers. In addition, the Manager will ensure TWS’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is part of our work in the state, including having equity embedded in our state goals. This includes early and effective engagement with partners and, when possible, elevating communities that have been historically marginalized. This position will also cultivate existing relationships and further build a network to educate and influence decision-makers, media outlets, and opinion leaders on TWS’ work and priorities in the state.

The Manager is expected to be an experienced leader and strong project manager who works collaboratively and will help ensure that TWS’s work in California is well integrated across all parts of the organization. This person will bring strategic focus to help achieve the organization’s priorities in California, and ensure we approach our work in a manner that is equitable in terms of who benefits from conservation outcomes and inclusive in terms of the partners we engage.

This position plays an important role in supporting an inclusive organizational culture that is grounded in trust and accountability to shared goals and outcomes. TWS has made diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic priorities for the organization and the California Conservation Manager will integrate these priorities throughout our work in the state. Across our team, we aspire to be campaign oriented, nimble, collaborative, innovative, transparent, and supportive of staff – our greatest asset.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum 5 years of experience working on or leading issue/advocacy or political campaigns and/or working to advance public policy changes at the local, state or federal level.
Successful track record of building relationships and collaborating with a diverse network of stakeholders in an inclusive, transparent, and effective manner.
Experience with public land issues and/or environmental policy required.
Commitment to working with others in accomplishing our goals in an equitable and inclusive manner.
Solid interpersonal skills that have been successfully used in partnerships and coalitions to address complex issues.
Strong strategic thinking skills and a demonstrated ability to set goals and priorities, craft effective strategies, and deliver results.
Good time management skills, with the ability to aptly balance short- and long-term demands.
Strong communication skills, including the ability to speak effectively in public with donors, partners, elected officials, and the media.
Motivated to achieve results and comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.
Willingness and ability to travel extensively (primarily in state and often in rural areas)

Audubon is seeking a Range Ecologist who will focus on the delivery of the Audubon Conservation Ranching (ACR) initiative in Utah, Idaho and Nevada. Audubon is a leader and integral member of a community of conservation practice, founded in a 100-year legacy of stewardship while establishing innovative programs to protect, conserve, and enhance habitat for a wide variety of bird species throughout the west.

The Range Ecologist will work closely with local landowners to implement working lands conservation programs and certify ranches that fulfill our protocols. The Range Ecologist will work in partnership within a community of practice including Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), conservation organizations, and agencies to deliver robust private landowner programming, monitoring, and must have a working knowledge of Farm Bill and Farm Bill associated programs. Audubon’s Wings Over Working Lands programs aim to improve private landowners’ ability to practice bird-friendly land management. The Range Ecologist will be responsible for engaging, cultivating, and enrolling landowners into these programs and assisting them with implementation of innovative land management practices as well as working with NRCS partners to deliver information and technical expertise about associated programs.

Through the development of habitat management plans (HMPs), an integral ACR conservation tool, the Range Ecologist will partner with landowners to determine land management goals and ensure program compliance. These HMPs support sound conservation while outlining the adhesion to protocols. The Range Ecologist will also conduct vegetation diversity and use monitoring to ensure landowners are compliant with program goals and are enhancing their grasslands to benefit grassland birds.

This position will be located in UT or ID. Preference for Salt Lake City.

Compensation:

$56,000 – $61,000 / year

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

Liaise with landowners providing excellent technical service to agricultural producers participating in Audubon’s working lands conservation programs. Specifically,

Establish and maintain professional relationships with ranchers and landowners participating in Audubon’s working lands programs.

Facilitate enrollment process in Audubon’s ACR program and enhance demand for Audubon conservation programs through partnerships with local agencies and organizations.

Communicate program goals and work with rancher/landowner to develop site-specific farm habitat conservation plans for each assigned ranch or project.

Execute agreements and plan projects for landowners participating in financial assistance conservation programs.

Connect with local conservation professionals and organizations to deliver programs and recruit new program participants.

Provide timely access to financial assistance programs for enrolled ranches, through Audubon, local, state, and federal financial assistance opportunities. Refer producers to partner conservation programs such as NRCS when applicable.

Work with our NRCS partners to identify and implement habitat enhancement projects. Apply a new, decision-support tool to the to help ranchers and partners identify conservation priorities.

Advocate for science-supported habitat management on partner lands.

Establish habitat management plans using SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time sensitive) goals on all enrolled program ranch programs.

Conduct and/or oversee essential avian and grassland monitoring on program lands.

Identify monitoring needs regarding avian and vegetation communities; develop and implement monitoring techniques to address land use, avian density and occupancy, and vegetation response to disturbance.

Support grant writing related to Audubon Conservation Ranching work.

Maintain excellent communication with supervisor and administrative staff.

Identify and participate in opportunities that allow for continued professional growth and aimed at improving skills related to grassland management and avian conservation.

Attend training events held by local partners, such as NRCS, USFWS, etc.

Plan and participate in landowner workshops and other educational events.

Represent Audubon at events to promote and educate the public on Audubon’s working lands programs, grassland bird conservation, and grassland management practices.

Collaborate with colleagues across National Audubon Society including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities

Maintains and fosters culture of safety.

Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in range management, ecology, natural resources management, wildlife management, or related field, advance degree a plus. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

Working knowledge of NRCS practices and Farm Bill implementation. Preference for TSP providers.

Experience with project development/coordination, conservation planning or similar work.

Knowledge of local agencies, organizations, and programs to help landowners, managers, and ranchers secure cost-share and incentive program funding to implement improved rangeland management practices.

Experience coordinating/facilitating field days, workshops, webinars, and/or symposium.

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking, public presentation, and the ability to synthesize and communicate technical and complex information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

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

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

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Ability to build consensus among a wide range of individuals (e.g. conservation partners, private landowners and ranchers, volunteers, and local community members).

Experience with grassland/vegetation plant, bird identification and management knowledge.

Experience with sampling methods, wildlife surveys, and habitat management.

Knowledge and appreciation of the ranching culture, range management issues, and sustainable ranching practices.

Working knowledge of ArcGIS, GPS and other GIS technologies including map making and data management/organization.

Proficiency with Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and other key Microsoft Office and web-based products.

Must be able to work autonomously and within a team.

Possess a valid driver’s license for safe operation of 4-wheel drive vehicles.

Ability to traverse long distances on uneven terrain and comfortable driving on unpaved surfaces with or without accommodation.

Must be able to transport items of up to 50 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Must be comfortable and willing to work occasional weekends and evenings with extensive day travel and occasional overnight travel, as necessary.

Familiarity with grassland bird ranges and their habitat associations.

Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking in Spanish is a plus.

The Arboretum is a living laboratory spanning 370 acres at the heart of Penn State’s campus. Our team manages both the renowned 30-acre H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens and 340 acres of natural lands, providing daily inspiration through beauty, purpose, and nature-based connection. We host over 200 educational programs and events annually, recently enhanced by the opening of the Palmer Museum of Art—an $85M LEED-certified facility that beautifully integrates art, science, and nature.

The Pollinator and Bird Garden

Our crown jewel is the 3.5-acre Pollinator and Bird Garden (PBG), opened in 2021. This internationally recognized garden has won architectural design awards for landscape sustainability and sets new standards for ecologically-centered management. Designed by Emmanuel Didier of Didier Design Studio (Fort Collins, Colorado) with planting design by Claudia West of Phyto Studio (Arlington, Virginia), and developed in collaboration with Matt Wallace of Lake Flato Architects, the Center for Pollinator Research, and Penn State experts, it creates beautiful, research-backed habitats for pollinators and birds while serving as a model for sustainable practices.

What You’ll Do

Core Responsibilities

Master sustainable landscape management through hands-on care of diverse native plantings including bulbs, grasses, perennials, and woody plants across naturalized and managed garden settings
Execute seasonal horticultural operations including planting, pruning, cutting back, dividing, and transplanting in both ornamental and research contexts
Monitor and maintain the award-winning Pollinator and Bird Garden, tracking plant performance, hardscape conditions, and research elements while contributing to ongoing data collection
Conduct integrated pest management through regular scouting, risk assessment, and environmentally responsible intervention strategies
Manage irrigation and plant establishment, ensuring optimal plant health through targeted watering and monitoring protocols
Lead volunteer teams in meaningful conservation work, developing your skills in team management, education, and community engagement
Collaborate on restoration projects across garden, prairie, and forest ecosystems while supporting educational programming
Document and analyze daily operations, seasonal patterns, and long-term trends using the PBG Management Toolkit and professional reporting standards

Professional Development Opportunities

This apprenticeship goes beyond daily operations to build your career foundation through:

On-campus professional development sessions with industry experts and Penn State faculty
Field trips to leading botanical gardens, conservation organizations, and sustainable landscape projects
Networking opportunities with professionals in public horticulture, landscape architecture, and environmental science
Mentorship from experienced horticulturists and the Director of Horticulture and Operations
Research participation in ongoing pollinator and ecosystem studies

What We’re Looking For

Essential Qualities

Passion for sustainable, biodiverse horticulture and eagerness to learn ecosystem-based practices
Collaborative spirit with strong interpersonal skills for working with diverse teams and public audiences
Physical readiness for outdoor work involving standing, kneeling, and walking for extended periods in varying weather conditions
Technical aptitude with hand tools, power equipment, and Microsoft Office 365 Suite
Self-motivation balanced with ability to follow direction and work independently
Flexibility for early morning starts (7:00 AM) and occasional weekend work to support natural lands volunteer sessions

Preferred Background

Degree in horticulture, forestry, landscape management, plant science, agriculture, or related field, OR
High school diploma plus 2+ years of relevant work experience managing landscapes, gardens or natural lands on a comprehensive level, OR
Equivalent combination of education and experience

Since 1995, CCALT has created innovative conservation solutions. Our work has permanently conserved over 800,000 acres of open space, natural habitat, and productive agricultural land. We are committed to the development of innovative programs and strategic partnerships that will increase the effectiveness of our work.

Summary of Position

The position will be based out of CCALT’s Del Norte office and will be primarily responsible for managing CCALT’s conservation easement transactions, upholding stewardship responsibilities in the region, and assisting in additive conservation activities. The position will have a secondary focus on engagement, representing CCALT within the broader regional community to advance our conservation projects and priorities, serving as staff liaison between the Southern Colorado Advisory Committee, the CCALT Board of Directors, and Staff, and supporting CCALT’s External Relations department as needed on regional events. The position will also be responsible for regularly working at and managing CCALT’s Del Norte office.

This position will help expand CCALT’s ability to assist agricultural landowners conserve their property. We are looking for someone who is passionate about working lands conservation and driven to strive for excellence in every facet of the job. This position requires an individual who has the capability to work independently with initiative, motivation, and flexibility. It also demands an ability to manage a workload with multiple, often competing, priorities and deadlines.

While land conservation, legal, and real estate experience are not required, we are looking for a candidate that will bring the skills to excel in these areas and that is eager to commit to these aspects of CCALT’s work. This position will require regular and statewide travel, including overnight and multi-day travel.

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
Written, verbal, organizational and interpersonal communication skills.
Proficiency in Salesforce, Adobe, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, field-based mapping technology, and ArcGIS. Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro preferred.
Tactful, possessing the ability to work with a high degree of personal and professional initiative and maintain confidentiality. Personal reliability and regular attendance are essential.
Able to work independently, under deadlines and produce accurate work.
Proven capacity to work effectively as a team player.
Knowledge, appreciation, and respect for the people and values of rural Colorado; familiarity and/or interest in agricultural issues with a conservation context is preferred. Most important is a sincere interest and commitment to private land conservation, with sensitivity and appreciation for the diverse interests and values of others.
Able to travel regularly and statewide, including overnight and multi-day travel.

Salary and Benefits:

Range: $62,000-$68,000 (based on experience); this position is eligible to participate in CCALT’s annual incentive pay plan, where the amount of incentive pay varies and is subject to the standard terms and conditions of the incentive program; flexible work environment; paid time off; retirement plan, employee health insurance (dental and vision insurance available at a cost to the employee).