Job Tag: Conservation

The Downeast Salmon Federation (DSF) is a 501(c)3, community-based organization that conserves and restores wild sea-run fish and their habitats in Downeast Maine, promoting the abundant return of all sea-run fish species for the ecological, cultural, and economic benefit of the region and beyond. DSF is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable organization. We value lived experience, local knowledge, and a diversity of perspectives, and we strive to create a workplace where all staff feel respected and supported.

The Land Trust Planner will lead watershed-scale planning for DSF Preserves and holdings across Downeast Maine. DSF currently stewards 4,159 fee-owned acres (69 parcels across 36 Preserves) and 2,355 acres under conservation easement in Washington and Hancock Counties, primarily along major endangered Atlantic salmon rivers. Together, these lands protect more than 83 miles of river, stream, lake, and pond frontage. Preserves are open to the public for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation; several include campsites or rustic cabins.

While DSF Preserves provide the public with recreational access and open space, they are conserved primarily to protect critical sea-run fish habitat along rivers, streams, and lakes. In addition to land conservation, DSF operates wild Atlantic salmon hatcheries, stocks salmon, removes dams and builds modern fishways, restores and enhances habitats, conducts monitoring and research, and advocates for sea-run fish conservation. Watershed Preserve Management Plans will reflect this integrated mission and diverse program areas.

The Land Trust Planner will apply scientific information and a landscape scale perspective to develop strategic, watershed focused management plans. Plans will establish priorities for public use, forest management, and in-stream habitat restoration and enhancement.

This position reports to the Land Trust Manager and collaborates with DSF staff, Board, and conservation partners.

Education
Required:

Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management, fisheries science, watershed science, biology or related field, two years’ experience, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
Required Qualifications

Skilled in both oral and written communication and ability to make technical information accessible to non-technical audiences.
Experience with writing planning documents, data management, and organizing records.
Technical writing experience, including analytical summary tables and graphics.
Extensive knowledge of Esri ArcGIS Suite (ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online).
Knowledge of advanced spatial analysis and modeling techniques (e.g., site suitability analysis, species distribution modeling, hydrology/watershed modeling, etc.).
Working knowledge of habitat conservation and restoration principles.
Experience conducting field investigations and assembling data for conservation planning.
Strong critical thinking, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Strong project management skills including prioritization, attention to detail, risk management, and meeting deadlines across multiple projects.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience promoting equitable public access through land management planning.
Experience analyzing land use trends and conserved lands corridors to inform future land conservation priorities.
Understanding of climate resiliency of Maine rivers, forests, and diadromous fish systems.
Three or more years of experience managing or planning conserved lands.
Understanding of and experience with fisheries habitat restoration.
Familiarity with New England’s aquatic ecosystems, particularly its diadromous fish.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $57,000 – $67,000. DSF provides health, dental and vision insurance, retirement contributions, vacation time (3 weeks) and 13 paid holidays annually.

California Farm Bureau is seeking a skilled and mission driven Natural Resources Staff Attorney to support our work securing the best farm/ranch future for Farm Bureau members. This role serves as a key legal resource on issues involving the use, management, and protection of natural resources – especially land, water, wildlife, and environmental compliance. The ideal candidate brings strong natural resources or environmental law experience along with a positive attitude, a collaborative mindset, and a strong team player approach that fosters effective partnerships across the organization and contributes to a supportive, solution-oriented work environment.

The attorney will work closely with General Counsel and the legal advocacy team, Farm Bureau members, internal teams, county Farm Bureaus and the policy advocacy team to ensure agricultural operations can thrive while navigating California’s highly complex regulatory environment.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
Active license to practice law in California.
Minimum 3 years of experience in natural resources, environmental, water, or land use law.
Strong knowledge of federal and California environmental statutes, regulations, and permitting processes.
Experience in administrative proceedings or litigation preferred.
Excellent legal research, writing, and communication skills.
Ability to manage a diverse caseload and adapt to shifting priorities.

Shape

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience working with agricultural interests, public agencies, water districts, conservation organizations, or energy developers.
Knowledge of California water law, endangered species compliance, renewable energy siting, forestry issues, or air and water quality regulations.
Advanced degree or significant coursework in environmental or natural resources law.
Familiarity with Westlaw, LexisNexis, and environmental compliance tools.

SALARY RANGE: $105,000.00 to 125,000.00

The Project Coordinator will be responsible for administering the “Habitat Improvements for Maintaining Soil Health and Water Quality” Clean Water Indiana grant. This grant seeks to increase the adoption of best management practices in agricultural and urban settings by offering cost share for willing participants to implement practices that improve water quality. Practices covered include, but are not limited to, field borders, filter strips, riparian buffers, and wildlife habitat plantings. The project coordinator will also work to increase the community’s understanding of management impacts on soil health and water quality through outreach and education efforts.

This grant is an extension of Purdue University’s efforts to conserve the endangered Eastern Hellbender salamander, a species that is particularly sensitive to water quality. The project coordinator will report to Purdue’s Help the Hellbender team but will be physically located in the Southern Indiana watersheds where Hellbenders are actively being managed. This project area includes the Blue River-Sinking and Silver-Little Kentucky watersheds, which cover parts of Clark, Crawford, Floyd, Harrison, Orange, and Washington Counties.

What We’re Looking For:

Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related field
Knowledge of principles and theories of soil and water conservation, including a general understanding of biology and agronomy
Ability to work and communicate with multiple partnering organizations, including the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and NRCS. Comfortability interacting with landowners and other members of the public from varied backgrounds
Ability to use Microsoft Suite programs
Familiarity with GIS mapping software such as ArcGIS Pro
Ability to work independently
Valid U.S. or Canadian driver’s license
Frequent travel between USDA Service Centers in Corydon, Salem, and Charlestown

Nice to Have:

1 year of experience

Are you ready to embark on a wild journey with a team that’s as passionate about the desert’s wonders as you are? The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is seeking a motivated and driven individual to join our team as a full-time Horticulturist II in our Botany Department.

Summary
A Horticulturist cares for plants, landscapes, and gardens at ASDM and provides botanical interpretation to visitors and the public.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
This position is responsible for installation, care and maintenance of plants and landscape features within exhibits and throughout the Museum grounds. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Shrub and tree installation. Shrub and tree pruning. Hazardous tree and cactus removal.
Site design and layout of new gardens. Mitigation and restoration of existing gardens.
Design, install, and troubleshoot irrigation systems.
Use and maintain hand and power tools.
Working aloft, using ladders, harnesses, and hydraulic lifts.
Oversee volunteers.
Keeping accurate accession records of the botanical collection within assigned areas of responsibility.
Interpretation of botanical and horticultural subjects to the general public.
May participate in tours and traditional/social media requests.
Involved in the preparation of special botanical events (Plant sales, Gala, Cool Summer Nights, special projects among others).
Apply pesticides as needed, guided by Integrated Pest Management concepts.
Opportunity to attend ASDM and public meetings, be involved in teaching and writing, and may be assigned propagation duties.
Opportunity to participate in field trips and off-ground work.

Education and/or Experience
Bachelor’s degree from four-year College or university; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Compensation: $19.51 per hour plus a comprehensive benefit package, which includes medical, dental, vision, life and LTD insurance, FSA, HRA, 403(b) retirement plan with Roth option, complimentary membership and guest passes, paid holidays, personal business time, sick leave, and vacation.

If you’re looking for an opportunity that ties your skills for coordinating compelling communications with your passion for conservation, consider the Pennington Conservation District (PCD). Our mission is to spread awareness of the importance of conservation. We’re looking for a creative, results-oriented, upbeat, self-starting professional who shares this vision for conservation to lead our team as the District Manager. The PCD believes that conservation success lies in land stewards personally recognizing that sound conservation practices increase their long-term profitability and the sustainability of their operations.

The District Manager is a full-time position assigned to assist the Pennington Conservation District. A demonstrated track record is desired that includes developing and coordinating projects, communicating effectively with diverse audiences, building partnerships among the public and stakeholders, public speaking, and analyzing data and writing reports. The manager is also responsible for financial management of the district including bookkeeping, managing grants and creating financial reports for the board, the state and the IRS. The district manager must be self- motivated and able to work independently and as a member of a team. A high school diploma or

GED and a driver’s license is required.

$19-$25/ hr DOE

Paid sick and vacation leave

Benefits to be negotiated

Since 1958, the Lake County Forest Preserve District has preserved, restored, and managed Lake County’s open space and natural lands for the public. Today, the Forest Preserves manages more than $1 billion in assets and is Lake County’s largest landowner, with more than 31,700 acres protected across 66 unique sites. The Lake County Forest Preserve District is looking for a dynamic leader to serve as the Executive Director of the Preservation Foundation, the charitable partner of the Forest Preserves.

Working closely with the Executive Director of the Lake County Forest Preserves, department directors, staff, and the Board of Directors of the Preservation Foundation, the Executive Director of the Preservation Foundation is responsible for growing this unique public-private partnership for the benefit of the Forest Preserves and Lake County residents. The incoming Executive Director will have an opportunity to lead an experienced team with vision, collaboration, and a sense of entrepreneurship.

The Lake County Forest Preserve District seeks a leader who is passionate about its mission, committed to excellence, supportive of its culture, and embraces philanthropy. This leader will be a skilled fundraiser with a background that includes being part of a strategic leadership team. They will have experience reporting to, supporting, or being on a nonprofit Board of Directors and must be able to effectively convey the Forest Preserves’ mission and vision to motivate partners and inspire support. This leader must also be adept at financial management, as they will be responsible for the fiscal integrity of the Preservation Foundation.

If you want to play a key role in this dynamic organization, please confidentially submit a current resume and cover letter to Kittleman & Associates. The cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your passion for the Lake County Forest Preserves and its mission, your enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue building a world-class public-private partnership between the Forest Preserves and the Preservation Foundation, as well as your organizational expertise in current or prior roles.

The Lake County Forest Preserves offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The salary range for this position annually is $108,555 – $162,698, with a mid-point of $135,637.

Trout Unlimited is a national organization with 300,000 members and supporters organized into over 400 chapters and councils nationwide. These dedicated grassroots volunteers are matched by a respected staff of organizers, lawyers, policy experts, and scientists, who work out of more than 45 offices across the country. Our mission is to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon.

POSITION SUMMARY

This position will implement the on-the-ground benefits to cold-water fisheries and local communities, including flood resiliency, improvement of aquatic habitat and water quality, and protection of aquatic health and biodiversity. The stream habitat technician will report directly to the Maine Field Technician and Maine Project Manager and will be responsible for working on a small restoration team to conduct instream habitat improvement and assessment of past work. The primary function of this team is to restore streams with woody structures through the implementation of strategic wood additions (SWAs). Additional projects may include small dam removal, assessing streams for future wood loading, and documenting the success of past projects. This position requires being comfortable working in uncomfortable conditions. Work can occur in rain, hot, and cold conditions. Generally, the work week consists of 4, 10-hour days, with 3 days off.

Multiple positions (2-3) will be filled, working in conjunction with the full-time technician. Technicians will support or act as sawyers (depending on experience) in safely felling trees. Depending on the structure and design needs, trees may be cut into smaller pieces, moved (with hand tools), pinned with posts utilizing a post pounder, and/or embedded in the bank using a winch setup. This position is physically strenuous and requires hiking (primarily off trail) with 20-50lbs of equipment and the ability to lift large logs/shift whole trees with use of hand tools. We are building in stream habitat which requires working within the water/stream channel. Weather conditions, unless unsafe, will not impact the work schedule.

REQUIREMENTS

Saw experience (specifically with directional felling) or sawyer training.
Familiarity with hand tools (e.g. axes, shovels, chainsaws, etc.).
Ability to hike & carry heavy gear (up to 50lbs) through rough terrain off-trail.
Familiarity with data collection/navigation applications.
Ability and willingness to travel.
Valid driver’s license and own vehicle required.
Ability to work with others on a small team.
Schedule flexibility, and adaptability to varying environments and plans.
Passion for protecting and restoring trout populations and their watersheds.
Experience in outdoor field craft and equipment preparation.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience with directional tree felling for strategic wood addition, (preferably with USFS, S-212, or Game of Logging certification).
Tree ID skills.
Knowledge of fish habitat and/or basic hydrology.
Experience with Esri Applications (Survey123, Esri Field Maps, etc.).
Basic First Aid and CPR; Wilderness First Aid or similar.

Location: The team will be based in Maine (no office location), with weekly travel throughout the state (mileage reimbursement). Project areas include but are not limited to the Rangeley Lakes region and the Northeast Piscataquis region in Maine with lodging provided during the work week.

Hours: The team typically completes a 40-hour work week in 4 field days, with one day for travel (Monday or Friday).

Dates: The position begins in June/July and runs 6-8 weeks, with the potential for more work.

COMPENSATION

This is a seasonal position for 6-8 weeks in the summer of 2026. Pay is approximately $18-22/hour based on experience. Mileage reimbursement for travel to and from sites each week. A work truck is provided for travel from daily lodging accommodations. Housing/lodging is provided, typically in the form of short-term rental during the work week. Housing is not provided outside of the work week. Work boots, all PPE, and equipment provided. Meals covered during the work week. Potential to receive wilderness first aid training saw certifications, or other professional development opportunities as available.

The Virginia Marine Resources Commission is seeking a Division Head to lead the Fisheries Management Division. This senior leadership role is responsible for advancing the agency’s conservation mission, overseeing the development of fishery management plans, and guiding regulatory proposals through the public process. The Division Head may also represents the Commonwealth in multi-state, regional, and federal fisheries forums, requiring a balance of technical expertise, leadership, and diplomacy to work effectively with diverse partners and stakeholders.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
•Provide executive leadership for the Fisheries Management Division, overseeing the development of fishery management policy and regulatory documents using the best available scientific, economic, biological, and sociological information.
•Lead by example in complying with federal, state, and agency laws and policies, and hold the Division accountable to these standards.
•Advise agency leadership and the Commission on matters related to Virginia’s fisheries, including regulation, legislation, and management strategies.
•Represent the Commonwealth, as designated by the Agency Head, in interstate and regional fishery management proceedings with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, Regional Fishery Management Councils, and other federal and regional partners.
•Present and evaluate fishery management plans and staff recommendations for all fishery-related issues before the Commission, ASMFC (Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission), or MAFMC (Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council).
•Provide policy and technical guidance to agency advisory committees, including the Fisheries Management Advisory Committee, Blue Crab Management Advisory Committee and other Commission committees as directed by the Agency Head.
•Review and prepare responses to inquiries from state agencies, legislators, the Governor’s Cabinet, media, and the public regarding fisheries issues, draft reports, issue briefs, and correspondence for agency leadership.
•Support coordination and peer review of proposed fisheries projects when designated.
•May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.

Minimum Qualifications

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
•Comprehensive knowledge of marine species, fishery management techniques, and the economics and applied practices of the seafood industry within its regulatory framework.
•Demonstrated training and experience leading and managing a diverse workforce, including supervising multiple work units within a division and providing oversight to both mid-level managers and entry-level staff.
•Demonstrated experience to develop and implement workforce plans; train, mentor, and support staff; structure operations for efficiency; and direct teams to achieve goals in a timely, accurate, and productive manner.
•Excellent oral and written communication skills.
•Completion of a Statement of Economic Interest is required upon hire and annually thereafter, in accordance with the Code of Virginia § 2.2-3118.2.
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
•Familiarity with legislative process.
•Graduation from a college or university with major course work in marine science, fisheries or related field.
•Specific experience working with or within the management processes of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, or similar fisheries management body at the regional or federal level.

Hiring Range: $110,000 – $125,000

Job Summary: The Community Forestry Seasonal Technician is integral to the success of Tree Trust’s community forestry program. This position supports all aspects of Tree Trust’s Community Forestry programming including volunteer tree planting and general care of trees within Tree Trust’s purview with a special emphasis on young tree care.

We are seeking a responsible and passionate person interested in nature and urban forestry. Background knowledge of trees would be preferred but not required. The successful candidate will be adaptable and able to make sound, independent decisions as situations arise. The position is physically demanding and involves early mornings, Saturdays, and some long days of up to 10 hours. Overtime is paid for hours worked over 40 hours per week.

Essential Functions:

Assist with planting new trees and site preparation for community forestry projects.
Water newly planted trees under Tree Trust’s purview across the seven-county metro area.
Perform additional maintenance on newly planted trees, including mulching, staking, and pruning.
Drive Tree Trust trucks and pull water tanks to job sites within the seven-county metro area.
Assist with the maintenance of Tree Trust’s gravel-bed tree nursery. This may include watering, tracking inventory, caring for young trees, overall upkeep, weed control, and mowing.
Engage with volunteers and residents to educate on work being done in the community and promote tree stewardship.

Required Qualifications/Skills:

Interest or education in urban forestry, horticulture, biology, water resources, urban planning, or related field.
Ability to work flexible hours: early mornings, evenings, weekends, and travel as needed.
Valid driver’s license, clean driving record as determined by our insurance provider, ability to safely drive and maneuver a large vehicle with a trailer.
Ability to pass a criminal background check and motor vehicle check as required by our insurer.
Ability to obtain MNDOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate within 15 days of hire.
Ability to work independently to complete assigned tasks.
Working knowledge of tree identification as well as signs and symptoms of common tree issues.
Exceptional record keeping and organizational skills.
A working knowledge of common computer software including MS Word, Excel, ArcGIS is preferred but not required.
Leadership skills and the ability to work both as a team member and independently.
Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to creatively solve problems.
Passion for people and trees.

Work Environment: The job will require constantly working outdoors in all types of weather conditions and exposure to elements. This can include heavy to moderate noise, proximity to moving equipment or machinery, exposure to tools and machines used in landscaping industries. We work in parks, schools, boulevards, and private property so each day looks a little different and you get to engage with a variety of people and places. The community forestry department loves to joke around, support each other, and talk trees while making sure the work is done and done correctly.

Physical demands: Physical demands require constantly moving, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Frequently operates machinery and will use hands/fingers and legs to operate, activate, use, prepare, inspect, place, detect and position materials. Frequently required to stand and walk, lift and/or move up to 60 lbs. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Constantly required to communicate with ability to talk and hear.

Founded in 1964, the Delaware Nature Society (DelNature) is a state-wide, non-profit organization that aspires to be inclusive and multicultural, celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity in nature and people. Our mission is to connect people and nature to create a healthy environment for all, through education, conservation, and advocacy.

Position Summary

Hourly seasonal position located at Delaware Nature Society’s Ashland Nature Center supports the Land and Biodiversity Team in the overall care and maintenance of lands.

Responsibilities

Assists with the care of all tree reforestation and meadow restoration sites, controlling non-native invasive plants through both mechanical and chemical means.
Assists in maintaining trails, lawns, fence lines, and teaching areas through mowing, string trimming, and pruning.
Assists in maintaining woody and herbaceous plantings through watering, planting, weeding, pruning, and mulching.
Assists in maintaining trail signage, bridges, boardwalks, accessible paths, and wood chipped paths.

Qualifications and Experience

Current student enrolled in college/trade program pursuing a degree in environmental science, wildlife studies, recreation, conservation, engineering, or related field.
Prior experience with safely operating and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, vehicles, and small/large engine equipment (preferred).
Ability to work effectively and productively as a part of a team, indoors and outdoors under variable weather conditions – rain or shine.
Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, and has effective time management skills.
Valid Driver’s License required.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The physical demands 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 the essential functions.

The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, and reach, and must be able to move around the work environment.
Position at times requires strenuous physical work – frequent standing, bending, twisting, stooping, climbing, and lifting, pushing or pulling objects over 50 lbs.
Specific vision abilities required for this job include close, vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.
The noise level in the work environment can be loud while operating machinery and equipment. Proper ear protection will be provided and required to be worn at these times.
Ability to work in a variety of indoor and/or outdoor settings, weather, and terrains.

Salary and Compensation

This is a full time/hourly seasonal position, working 40 hours/week from June 1 – August 31, 2026, with an hourly rate of $16/hr, divided into twice-monthly payments with all required federal and state taxes withheld.