Senior Director, Conservation Programs

Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative is seeking a seasoned, driven professional to be its Senior Director, Conservation Programs who will advance truly inspirational work. A key member of the Senior Leadership Team that guides the organization, this position also leads work advancing protected areas especially through supporting Indigenous-led efforts, maintaining landscape connectivity given a changing climate, and promoting people and wildlife co-existence. This work is highly collaborative and requires working at the local and regional level, as well as on key national and global enabling policies.

Preferably, this position is based in Y2Y’s main office in Canmore, Alberta or at least in the Y2Y region. This position reports directly to the President and will assume primary oversight of Y2Y’s conservation programs including five conservation program directors (Landscape Protection, Landscape Connection, Communities & Conservation, Science & Knowledge, and Government Relations). As such, this position is responsible for leading these programs, providing strategic oversight and planning support, implementation and program and project management, together which advance the Y2Y vision and deliver on the Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities

The Senior Director, Conservation Programs will:

Ensure clear direction for the conservation program in service of and to fully leverage the Y2Y Strategic Plan and Y2Y’s bold and optimistic vision;
Demonstrate an understanding and commitment to the whole organization (beyond individual programs and functional agendas) and work as part of the Senior Leadership Team to provide strategic direction to the organization and maximize integration of the organization’s functions and systems;
Provide strategic direction and oversight to the development of the conservation program annual plan and budget, and assess progress against objectives, ensuring expenditures are on track and major changes to priorities or spending are communicated promptly;
Lead and inspire the conservation program directors and their teams, building capacity to fulfil the strategy as needed; work closely with the Development, Marketing & Communications and Operations teams, to support their roles, maximizing impact through integrated work that leverages talents;
Develop and maintain strong and productive relationships with high-level entities and individuals including partners, influencers, federal and regional governments, Indigenous nations and entities, the Y2Y board and Council, and donors and funders, acting as an ambassador for and helping to strengthen and leverage Y2Y;
Promote the Y2Y vision and programs to relevant audiences through verbal and written mechanisms (conferences; talks; written thought-pieces; written and oral media outlets; meetings/events with funders, communities, government agencies, partners);
Engage in high level fundraising including review of proposals, reports and budgets; meetings with donors and funders, and strategizing with senior leadership to develop potential new opportunities;
Lead the Conservation Programs Committee of the Board and engage in all Board meetings;
Promote and reinforce the organization’s values including being ambitious, optimistic, committed, compassionate, and inspirational;
Take an active role promoting a culture of belonging that embraces the contributions of all team members; and
Travel within the Y2Y region as required and occasionally beyond the region.

Candidate Profile:

Master’s, Ph.D., or J.D. degree in a related field preferred;
A minimum of 15 years of successful experience providing direction, support and mentoring to staff, including remote staff;
Demonstrated excellence in leading conservation programs; and evidence of leadership in being strategic, prioritizing work through annual plans, overseeing implementation and measuring progress;
Strong understanding of how to distil and implement complex collaborative science and knowledge to guide conservation and policy change (preferably in the Y2Y region);
Robust understanding of and passion for the Y2Y vision and mission;
Knowledge and experience related to Indigenous rights and governance;
Strong knowledge of engaging with government agencies and elected officials at various levels of government, including with Indigenous governments;
Proven ability to build and maintain diverse and successful coalitions and collaborations;
Thrives and enjoys working in a fast-paced and nimble organization that is strategic, and also responsive to new opportunities;
Passion for and strong background in both individual and foundation fundraising;
Commitment to building on our efforts to maintain a diverse team that feels valued and included through modelling behaviours, and proactively managing bias;
Experience in prioritizing work to maximize impact, and in managing complex budgets with multiple funders; and
Ability and interest to travel with some regularity.

Terms of Employment:

Salary is commensurate with experience, ranging from $125,000-$165,000 per year
Full-time position (37.5 hours/week) with an outstanding benefits package.
The preferred location for this role is in Canmore, Alberta (Y2Y main office). Candidates located in the Y2Y region will also be considered.

Conservation Specialist – Stormwater and Water Quality

This is a professional position in the Land Conservation Department established primarily for coordinating Stormwater management, administering Non-Metallic Mining Ordinance, and assisting administration of the Erosion Control Ordinance. This is a full-time position working Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:00pm, with every other Friday off.

Salary Range: $63,736.40 – $81,946.80

Essential Job Functions

Demonstrates self-leadership, seeks out opportunities for personal growth and development, accepts feedback and demonstrates ability to learn and apply.

Shares ideas and demonstrates respect, humility, honesty, and open-minded thinking.

Demonstrates flexibility, acceptance of change and emotional intelligence.

Takes initiative and demonstrates the ability to think critically and strategically.

Participates as a contributing member of the team and brings authentic self to discussions regarding all aspects of the work.

Demonstrates ability to build and maintain effective relationships.
Contributes positively to an inclusive workplace.

Urban Conservation:

Independently reviews and analyzes stormwater plans submitted by engineers and architects. Reviews submitted stormwater management plans to verify calculations meet La Crosse County Chapter 29 Stormwater Post Construction Ordinance and WI DNR Technical Standards. Provide written reports of engineered proposals.

Independently investigates construction sites, develops site evaluations, reviews and approves erosion control plans, and monitors sites for compliance with local, state or federal requirements.

Processes erosion control and storm water permit applications and coordinates the permit issuance. Maintains erosion control and stormwater records within the permit system.

Coordinates the administration of urban rules and ordinances between the Zoning/Planning Department, Department of Land Conservation Office, and the developer and landowner.

Provides enforcement action as necessary as required under the County Construction Site Erosion Control Ordinance Chapter 21, Storm Water Management Ordinance Chapter 29, and other state or federal requirements.

Provides consultative assistance regarding urban erosion control and stormwater management to individuals, developers, engineers, and units of government.

Maintains compliance and annual reports for La Crosse County’s Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer System (MS4) permit.

Nonmetallic Mining:

Coordinates the administration of the County’s Chapter 27 Non-Metallic Mining Reclamation Ordinance.

Creates annual reclamation reports for non-metallic mines within La Crosse County.

Uses Carlson SurvCE GPS data collector software to collect data points to assess the amount of acreage being actively mined.

Generates an annual report documenting the number of Non-metallic mines, active mining acreage, and amount of reclaimed acreage for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Miscellaneous:

Uses computers with database management applications, excel spreadsheets, graphs and GIS.

Receives and responds to public inquiries and complaints regarding non-metallic mines, agricultural and urban stormwater, runoff, and state and county permits and permitting processes.

Prepares and presents oral and written reports and papers.

Assists in the collection of water quality samples.

Meets with and presents information to County committees and local municipalities.

Participates in various online and in-person training opportunities to enhance professional development as related to essential job functions.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of: storm water and construction site erosion control practices; the application of these practices to achieve pollution reduction goals; engineering design for structural and non-structural storm water and construction site erosion control practices; urban hydrology; and design and application of stormwater management practices.
Basic understanding of design, layout, technical mathematics and construction of industrial commercial and residential development site plans as submitted by engineering firms.
Working knowledge of the Department of Natural Resources Storm Water Construction and Post-Construction Technical Standards.
Familiarity with local land use regulations and state and federal requirements affecting construction site erosion control and storm water management.
Working knowledge of EPA requirements for stormwater management and implementation of state storm water discharge regulations and permits.
Familiarity with erosion control and storm water products.
Ability to interpret and review erosion control and storm water plans for plats and other site plans submitted by consulting engineers, contractors, or units of government, and suggests alternatives if necessary.
Ability to interpret aerial photos and soils maps.
Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.
Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals and organizations.

Training, Experience and Other Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in physical or natural science, engineering, agriculture, water resources management, agronomy, or other related fields with knowledge of hydrology chemistry, biology and soils
Preference for individuals with computer experience using HydroCAD, Winslamm, or other Stormwater modeling.
Requires three years’ experience in urban construction site erosion control and storm water management.
There is an expectation that the person in this role either already possess Stormwater Inspector Certification and DSPS Uniform Dwelling Code Erosion Inspector Certification or strive to obtain them within the first year of employment.
May consider other relevant combinations of education and experience that provide equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Greenhouse Assistant

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania, located in the beautiful Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia, is one of America’s oldest arboretums and a destination for plant lovers from Philadelphia and beyond. It is home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and host to special and educational events. We are a hub for botany, horticulture and urban forestry and a special part of Penn!

The Greenhouse Assistant will work closely with the Propagator in our 10,000 square foot greenhouse complex and ½ acre nursery to grow a wide variety of woody and herbaceous plants for research and public display. They will assist in management of greenhouse facilities, implementation of IPM program, and maintenance of a unique Victorian Fernery. They will participate in keeping detailed and accurate records. The Greenhouse Assistant will participate in research projects as needed. They will supervise interns and volunteers as needed. This position is expected to work on Sundays.

Job Description

Duties

Assist with propagation and production of plants for the living collection, display, and distribution.

Assist in maintaining healthy greenhouse and Fernery inventory.

Maintain detailed and accurate records. Participate in research projects as needed.

Assist with implementation of an Integrated Pest Management program for nursery.

Work with and mentor interns and volunteers.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

A H.S. Diploma or GED required, Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture or related field preferred.

1 to 2 years of experience or equivalent combination education and experience.

A minimum of one year experience in nursery production required.

Experience operating machinery preferred and a valid driver’s license required.

Must be able to obtain a Pennsylvania Pesticide applicators’ license expected upon employment.

Must be able to lift 25 pounds and occasionally 50 pounds.

Be willing and able to work outside in all weather.

Frequently requires walking, standing stooping and bending over.

This position is expected to work on Sundays.

Manager, Horticulture

The Horticulture Manager oversees staff or contractors who install and care for landscaping in and around zoo grounds – grasses, trees, shrubbery, flowers, and other plantings. Designs or oversees the design of the zoos outside environment, including animal exhibits, lawns, gardens, water settings, walkways, etc.

Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.

Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Provides strong leadership for the Zoo’s horticulture staff, which includes performance management, development, and training.
Consistently maintain Zoo landscape at a high level creating an environment that is enjoyable and educational for Zoo visitors.
Strong working relationship with the animal care staff in the design and maintenance of exhibit landscape
Close working relationship with the Facilities Department in the design and implementation of project work on Zoo grounds
Develop and manage the annual budget for the Horticulture Department
Schedule and manage outside contractors working on Zoo grounds.
Procures horticulture supplies and plant materials.
Provides landscape design input for capital improvement projects and provides associated budgets.
Develop and implement educational, entertaining activities for Zoo guests.
Must communicate well with guests, volunteers, staff, contractors and vendors.
Responsible for the professional development and progress of all direct reports
Manage design, installation, and maintenance of plant material in exhibits and public areas.
Ensure compliance with OSHA standards and regulations, as well as state, local and federal ordinances. Observes safety regulations and ensures that field teams do the same.
Must have a valid Texas driver’s license and comply with the policy on driving.
Approves and manages expense budgets for department.
Follows HZI purchasing policy in dealing with outside vendors/contractors ensuring the Zoo’s best interests are protected.
Work with appropriate Zoo staff to co-coordinate projects and ensure that staff are prepared when projects are on-going in their area.
Contributes to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in landscape design, agriculture or life sciences preferred. A thorough understanding of horticulture and the design of gardens and plantings are required. or equivalent work experience required
Five years supervisory experience
A sound background in the identification and culture of plants, as well as working knowledge of horticultural best practices

Program Assistant, Conservation

The mission of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. For more than 35 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium historically hosts nearly 500,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to over 8,000 animals and 285 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 54,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 60 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to volunteers who contribute over 19,000 hours annually.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a full-time, entry-level Program Assistant to join the Department of Conservation and Policy at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. The Department of Conservation and Policy team conducts applied scientific research on the species and habitats of Long Island Sound and supports the development of policy that will improve the health and resiliency of marine and coastal systems. Current projects underway by the department include salt marsh ecology research, marine debris retrieval, and building partnerships to support regional environmental monitoring. This will be a new position within the team that will provide administrative support across the department and assist with various elements of programmatic work within the team.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide administrative support to department (current full-time staff of 8)
Assist with data entry and quality control
Assist with ordering and inventory management of supplies and equipment
Assist with writing of reports, grants, and publications
Work with staff from other departments on related activities, including Community Science
Support Director and other staff on overall program implementation as needed, including field research activities

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Work Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science, Ecology, Biology or related field preferred
Previous experience working outdoors preferred

Knowledge and Skills

Excellent written and oral communication skills required
Excellent organization skills required
MS office (excel, word, powerpoint, outlook) skills required
Must be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions, including on boats and in mud
Must be able to work collaboratively, work independently, and multi-task
Able to carry 25 pounds over uneven terrain during field research

The ideal candidate will have an interest in coastal and marine ecosystems, be passionate about the environment, and be interested in providing administrative and logistical support to a dynamic and fast-paced team. The typical work schedule will be Monday through Friday from 9am – 5pm, but weekend, early morning, and evening work will be required periodically.

Salary: $23 per hour (typically 35-hr work week), plus benefits.

Display Horticulturist

The Display Horticulturist is responsible for delivering an exceptional and engaging horticultural experience for guests through expert plant care, attention to detail, and the implementation of best practices in sustainable horticulture. This position will have primary responsibility for the Palm Court and Fruit and Spice Room, while also providing support to other display areas as needed.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Carry out all horticultural duties within assigned Conservatory display rooms and/or gardens, including but not limited to watering, deadheading, planting, mulching, pruning, fertilizing and integrated pest management, using the best, most sustainable practices, keeping areas immaculately maintained with particular attention to detail.

2. Maintain room conditions, including ventilation, temperature and keeping floors clean and dry throughout the day. Wipe signs daily or as needed. Be aware of safety concerns and alert managers to any problems.

3. Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors the Conservatory along with working around the Center for Sustainable Landscapes.

4. Act as the team leader for installation of seasonal flower shows and exhibits that occur in designated Conservatory rooms or gardens. May assist in design of rooms or gardens. Assist with overall show install throughout the Conservatory.

5. Oversee and provide guidance to volunteers, students, and staff involved in the care and maintenance of assigned display rooms or gardens, ensuring high standards of horticultural presentation.

6. Troubleshoot garden problems and prioritize garden tasks.

7. Evaluate crops with other staff to determine future feasibility for displays.

8. Monitor, diagnose and treat insect, disease, physiological and cultural conditions, working with IPM Specialist.

9. Ensure all equipment is properly operated, maintained and stored.

10. May occasionally write articles, give tours, teach classes and assist with special events.

11. Respond to inquiries from the public regarding plants and care; maintain excellent customer relations.

12. Maintain Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license through appropriate and timely update training, being aware of credits needed.

13. Participate in weekend watering rotation.

14. Perform other activities and duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Knowledge and practice of highest industry standards for planting, pruning and maintenance, incorporating sustainability in all areas.

2. Knowledge of a vast plant palette and ability to research the needs of individual crops in the employee’s care. Ability to suggest suitable plants to add to displays, and ability to gather information to create an ideal environment for optimum health of displays.

3. Ability to diagnose problems that are physiologically based and/or stress related, anticipate what will occur under specific conditions (i.e., soil conditions, climate) and identify stresses and proactively implement solutions.

4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

5. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

6. Computer skills — proficiency with Internet and email software. Working knowledge of IRIS plant records and Argus climate control software a plus.

7. Strong attention to details.

8. Ability to prioritize and work independently.

9. Ability to work with the public and co-workers in a pleasant and courteous manner.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONS

1. Physical mobility: sitting, standing, bending, kneeling, walking, pushing/pulling, lifting/carrying objects up to 50 pounds, climbing up to 15 feet, manual dexterity to operate keyboard.

2. Mental effort: reading, writing, analyzing and visualizing.

3. Sensory requirement: ability to communicate and respond to staff in a friendly and fair manner.

4. Strong work ethic in all areas of job performance.

5. Ability to communicate and respond both in person and over the phone to the general public, staff, volunteers and board members in a friendly, knowledgeable and professional manner.

6. Able to work under deadlines and stress.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Greenhouse and garden atmosphere—hot, humid, sun-filled climate.

2. Ability to provide own transportation to perform principal responsibilities.

3. May be called upon to work all shifts, weekends and/or holidays. Overtime may be required during the two-three weeks before all major shows.

4. Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.

MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES (Education, Experience and Certification)

1. Minimum of B.A. or B.S. degree in plant sciences or related field. Four-year horticulture degree preferred.

2. At least two years’ experience in growing and maintaining plants in a professional capacity, using the highest industry standards.

3. Ability to acquire Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license within six months of hire.

Water Conservation Coordinator

Under the general supervision of the Conservation Supervisor, the Conservation Coordinator plays a key role in supporting TWC’s Conservation Department. This position involves planning for drought management and implementing sustainability initiatives through data analysis, industry research, and providing technical support in both field and office settings.
The Conservation Coordinator is responsible for program planning, administrative tasks, effective communication, and engaging with customers. It is essential for the Conservation Coordinator to apply knowledge of TWC policies, procedures, and organizational core values to all responsibilities.
Success in this role requires excellent communication skills, a hands-on approach, and the ability to manage projects effectively. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, collaborative, and possess a service-driven mindset.
Specific Responsibilities
Assist in the facilitation and monitoring of enforcement policies and procedures related to water violations.
Assist in developing communication materials for customers.
Respond to customer questions.
Support in developing community outreach and engagement opportunities focused on conservation, efficiency, and drought management.
Coordinate internal and external conservation programs.
Manage select datasets required for reporting.
Assist with technical writing of reports and presentations.
Supports and implements TWC’s One Water initiative.
Stay informed about the latest trends in One Water.
Supports partnerships with TWC teams to reduce or rethink water usage so it is managed sustainably.
Ensure compliance with reporting requirements from state and regional regulatory authorities, such as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Texas Water Development Board.
Provides analytical support for policy and program development related to water conservation.
Makes presentations to the public on water conservation.
Recommends actions for TWC to integrate One Water principles into TWC’s practices, operations, and building remodels and new construction.
Review and approve purchases made for Conservation programming.
Work on special projects as assigned.

Required Knowledge Skills & Abilities
Maintains a culture of safety by always following safety guidelines and practices in all situations for self, co-workers, visitors, and the public.
Maintain strict confidentiality of business, employee, and customer information in written and oral communications and safeguard sensitive documents.
Demonstrates a spirit of cooperation and teamwork including assisting with duties outside regular responsibilities.
Always accepts accountability for decisions and actions.
Adhere to TWC policies and procedures.
Exemplifies TWC Core Values.
Participate in and support initiatives to achieve TWC Strategic Goals.
Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and maintain a high degree of professionalism in a high-pressure environment.
Demonstrate ability to take initiative and manage projects with minimal supervision.
Excellent verbal and written communication.
Strong reading comprehension and analytical skills.
Organized, and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Knowledge or experience with Microsoft Office Suite, and Adobe Acrobat.
Knowledge or experience with OnBase and Impressa CIS system preferred.
GIS and general experience with spatial data or statistics are a plus.

Required Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, Resource Management, Environmental Sciences, or related fields, OR
2 years of experience in utilities or community outreach

Other Requirements
Working conditions are primarily in an office environment with some work done in the field with exposure to varying weather and traffic conditions.
Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record.
Normal office physical activity is required while utilizing standard office machines. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Land Conservation Manager

Join Champlain Area Trails (CATS) for an exciting opportunity to make a real

difference as our first Land Conservation Manager! This pivotal role offers you the chance to

lead dynamic initiatives that protect New York’s Champlain Valley land through the acquisition of

properties and conservation easements. You will play a key part in transforming revocable trail

agreements into permanent easements while collaborating with landowners to create welcoming trails

on private lands. As you oversee significant ongoing conservation projects and identify new avenues

for land protection, you’ll be at the forefront of innovative conservation efforts in the region.

Reporting to our Executive Director, you’ll work closely with a passionate team, including the Director

of Trails and Land Management, to seamlessly integrate land acquisitions with trail management. We

want to hear from you if you’re ready to engage with conservation organizations and communities

to drive meaningful change! Join us and help preserve our beautiful landscapes for future

generations.

Summary of Responsibilities: The Land Conservation Manager (LCM) initiates and completes

transactions that protect land by purchasing or identifying potential donated properties and

conservation easements. This person will also obtain agreements with landowners to have trails on

private properties. A priority for the first three years is to act on a New York State Smart Growth grant

to convert “revocable trail agreements” to permanent trail easements. Additionally, the manager will

oversee completing two significant land conservation projects currently in progress and future

projects as identified.

The LCM reports to the Executive Director of Champlain Area Trails. The LCM collaborates regularly

with the Director of Trails and Land Management to ensure seamless transitions from acquiring the

land and trail easements to managing them. This position works alongside the Development and

Communications Director, Community Engagement and Outreach Manager, and other staff members

on cooperative initiatives. Furthermore, the LCM communicates and collaborates with other

institutions and conservation organizations to accomplish shared goals.

QUALIFICATIONS

(Successful candidates will have the following qualifications)

Strong belief and passion for the mission of Champlain Area Trails
Experience (3 years or more) related to one or more of the following: private land conservation

and conservation easements, real estate, surveying, appraisal work, real estate law, private

property partnerships, or similar.

Advanced degree in one of the following: environmental science, ecology, law, regional planning,

land planning, real estate, or a related field; or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a

minimum of 5 years of experience in the above.

General understanding of federal tax law regarding charitable gifts.
Demonstrated ability to comprehend and interpret legal documents and maps.
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ArcView.
Strong written and oral communication skills and a positive and energetic attitude.
Experience in budgeting, proposal preparation, and project cost estimating.
Ability to perform outdoor fieldwork in various weather conditions and seasons.
Flexible availability to meet the demands of assigned functions, including occasional evening

meetings and weekend work.

Willingness to travel frequently within the Champlain Valley region and to other necessary

locations.

A valid means of reliable transportation.

DESIRABLE SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

(It is not required, but it is great to know about!)

Experience working with a non-profit organization in New York State.
Knowledge of the Champlain Valley’s plants, animals, natural communities, recreational

opportunities, and history.

Prior work with a land trust, conservation organization, or similar organization.

Stewardship Coordinator

Wildlands Engineering, Inc. is seeking a motivated individual to join the Stewardship Team in our Raleigh, NC office. The Stewardship Coordinator will lead the planning, coordination, and implementation of land management activities for a variety of stream, wetland, and other restoration sites. Land management activities involve promoting the long-term ecological health of project sites necessary to support project success and ecological design. Work relates to native plant community establishment, invasive species management, stream stabilization, conservation easement compliance, landowner relations, and wildlife management. Work will occasionally involve addressing infrastructure and general maintenance issues on sites. This position is responsible for identifying land management issues on sites, developing land management plans, and driving the implementation of plans. The Stewardship Coordinator’s role will involve hands-on work and coordination with subcontractors. Additionally, the Stewardship Coordinator will be responsible for monitoring and documenting current conditions on sites and working collaboratively across restoration project teams. Success in this role will require attention to detail, adaptability, strong communication skills, problem-solving, and a firm background in ecology and land management techniques.

Key Responsibilities

Promote the long-term ecological health of project sites necessary to support project success and ecological design
Lead land management planning and implementation for assigned sites
Vegetation enhancement through vegetation release, promoting soil health, planting, and seeding
Invasive species management
Ensure conservation easement compliance
Stream stabilization efforts
Erosion control
Provide upkeep of fences, gates, and other infrastructure associated with project sites
Wildlife management
Create project planting plans
Deliver effective communication and coordination with team members, other staff, and subcontractors
Meeting deadlines with a willingness to react positively to changes in priorities

Qualifications

At least 3 years of experience related to the key responsibilities and requirements of the job
A four-year degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, geography, or other related field.
Understanding of ecological processes important to riparian and wetland restoration in the southeastern US
Southeastern native and invasive plant identification skills
GIS proficiency
Proficiency using Microsoft Office
Demonstrated initiative
Strong organizational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Must have valid driver’s license
Adhere to company safety policy and OSHA safety procedures

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with ecological restoration projects
Experience with field sampling practices, including vegetation and soil sampling
Experience interfacing with landowners and agency officials
Experience working with conservation easements
Technical writing experience
Proficiency in technical literature review
Experience using power equipment such as chainsaws, brush cutters, and handheld power tools. A chainsaw safety certification is additionally preferred.
Commercial Pesticide Applicator license
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement land management activities
Advanced degree in relevant field

Physical Demands

Ability to frequently walk over rough, uneven surfaces
Ability to sustain periods of strenuous physical exertion
Ability to lift to 50 pounds
Ability to work independently in an outdoor setting
The requirements of the job and the physical demands are performed in outdoor weather conditions with frequent exposure to wet/humid conditions and extreme heat or cold. Other adverse factors may include exposure to ticks and poison ivy.
The successful applicant must be willing and able to apply herbicides safely and effectively according to label regulations, laws, and best management practices.

Horticulturist

General Summary:

Applies strategic and tactical horticultural skills in the essential functions of installation, care, and maintenance of collections, displays, exhibits, lawns, and cultivated areas of the Garden. Evaluate opportunities for containerized displays and beds. Support and participate in design planning and execution. This includes monitoring and programming irrigation, fertilization needs, implementing cultural controls, and applying IPM, in assignment areas to shrubs, perennials, annuals, and trees.

Essential Functions:

Perform general gardening duties such as pruning, planting, weeding, mulching, and removing debris. Supervise tasks and work with gardeners daily, providing training in proper horticultural techniques as needed to teammates.
Monitor and inspect plants for health deficiencies and problems, identify proper corrective measures and apply appropriate pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.
Participate in the research, design, and selection of new plant material and garden beds and containers. Assist with the development and design of new and existing garden areas.
Contribute to weekly garden task scheduling and planning. Monitor irrigation systems, implement effective program changes, and enter work order requests for repairs.
With managerial approval, source and request plant purchases, supplies, and materials such as trees, shrubs, seeds, mulch, soil and garden tools and equipment using the establish department process.
Lead tours, provide demonstrations, and answer questions from garden guests and staff on horticultural topics. Teach and lead classes, and workshops on various Horticulture related topics to the public.
Work with contractors, consultants, and temporary employees and aid in supervising and training interns.
Operate garden equipment such as utility vehicles, chainsaws, blowers, mowers, tillers, skid steer, tractors, trucks, forklifts, and other heavy machinery after training.
Occasional travel required.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate’s degree in horticulture or related field and 3+ years of experience in landscape installation or maintenance or an equivalent combination of training, skills and experience.

Success Factors:

Efficient and effective in execution of tasks. Ability and willingness to adapt to a wide variety of duties and responsibilities in all weather conditions. Ability to organize work, maintain schedules, and problem solve. Decision making skills and the ability to prioritize.
Guest service-focused with the ability to relate kindly and respectfully with persons internal and external to the Garden. Must demonstrate the Garden’s Core Values in all relationships at work and behave ethically in all business matters.
Able to demonstrate horticultural best practices based on real examples
Strong knowledge of U.S. Zone 7 plants and their proper care
Must attain and maintain these credentials: 1) First Aid and CPR; 2) Alabama Pesticide Operator’s License (OTPC), and 3) Motor Vehicle operation insurability and pass an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report.
Aptitude and experience with safely operating large equipment, such as trucks, tractors, and riding mowers required.
Skilled in using hand tools and operating small power equipment required. Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) are required. Proficient with Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a related field from an accredited program and 1+ years of experience in landscape installation or maintenance or an equivalent combination of training, skills and experience.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Physical Demands: Requires continuous physical activity such as occasional lifting (50 to 100-lb) with team member assistance several times each day, frequent solo lifting (up to 50-lb), bending, climbing (up to 15-ft), walking over uneven and sloping terrain. Sense of vision and hearing in the normal range with or without correction. Sense of touch and the ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment required.
Work Environment: Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions. Exposure to loud, prolonged noises and/or vibrations.
Equipment: Lawn mowers (riding, push, stand on), tree maintenance equipment (chipper, chain saw), backpack blower, aerator, string trimmer, edger, brush cutter, general gardening tools and equipment, utility vehicle, skid steer, tractor, front-end loader, dump truck, aerial lift, bucket truck, pick-up truck, two-way radio, cell phone, general office equipment.