Job Tag: Conservation

Summary:

Performs professional work planning and coordinating programs related to landscape and plant care education. Work involves developing and implementing adult and children’s educational programs in horticulture and other plant-related subjects. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Executive Director and is evaluated through meetings, review of design and program plans, and results achieved.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field with two to three (2-3) years experience developing educational programs; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Position is located at Harry P Leu Gardens.

Central Park is one of the world’s most famous and beloved public spaces. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1858, the 843-acre Park was the country’s first purpose-built public park and is a National Historic Landmark and a New York Scenic Landmark. The Central Park Conservancy, a private, not-for-profit organization, was founded in 1980 to rescue the Park, which had fallen into serious disrepair. Since then, the Conservancy has overseen the investment of over $1.6 billion in the restoration of the Park, which now hosts over 40 million visitors a year.

The Conservancy is one of the largest and most successful public private partnerships in New York City and is considered a major civic institution given its impact on the health and vibrancy of both the Park and the City. The Conservancy’s mission is to preserve and celebrate Central Park as a sanctuary from urban life. The City of New York has formally entrusted the care of the Park to the Conservancy which is responsible for every aspect of its care, including landscape maintenance, capital improvements, and the visitor experience. The Conservancy employs roughly 400 people and has an annual operating budget of $100 million.

The Position:

The Natural Areas Technician works closely with a team of ecologically minded professionals to ensure the conservation and protection of designated natural areas in Central Park (i.e., North Woods, Ramble, Dene Slope, and Hallett Nature Sanctuary). The Natural Areas Technician works under the guidance of the Natural Areas Manager, Assistant Manager, and Foreperson to provide all manner of care to these landscapes within the park. It is expected that the Natural Areas Technician will work within and across their Section and with other staff in Landscape Management to perform their primary tasks.

Essential Duties

Technical Responsibilities:

Provide general landscape care based on unique needs of the Natural Areas (i.e., woodland, wetland, and meadow management).
Apply land management practices to control invasive species and steward native plants to promote ecosystem health and services according to an established schedule of organizational standards.
Planting/weeding (i.e., herbs, vines, shrubs, and trees), trail work, corridor pruning, transplanting, seed collection, watering, lawn care and other related duties.
Provide general hardscape maintenance within the Natural Areas (e.g., sweeps around benches/stairs, clears paths of debris, removes graffiti, fence installation and repair).
Keep simple records (e.g., tracking plantings).
Maintain surface drainage by keeping catch basins free of debris during heavy rainstorms and remaining snow and ice in the winter months.
Support waste management operation by picking up and performing proper disposal of trash in landscapes and paths; empties trash cans as necessary.
Perform snow removal and ice mitigation on paths with machines and physical labor to provide appropriate levels of access as per established organizational standards.

Collaboration & Communication:

Works with and teaches volunteers and seasonal interns.
Ability to use Microsoft Office and other software applications.
Seeks out and participates in training sessions and seminars.
Cooperate with other staff within the department and other department personnel in completing tasks.
Displays the necessary initiative and dependability to work alone or in groups and makes regular contributions to solving section-based problems.
Interact with park patrons and colleagues in a courteous and professional manner.
Assist in the preparation of special events as needed.

Related Work:

Operate various types of equipment including utility vehicles.
Maintain tools and equipment in good working order and reports items that require repair.
Participate in all training sessions and seminars
Reports on malfunctioning infrastructure, safety hazards, and quality of life issues.
Perform related work as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree or other equivalent education in a related field and professional work experience in natural areas land management Fundamental understanding and working knowledge of ecological restoration and natural areas land management Ability to identify native and non-native plants specific to the northeast US Valid Driver’s License that must be maintained for duration of employment Ability to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed Ability to lift 50lbs and perform heavy physical labor on a daily basis in all weather conditions

Additional Requirements for Assignment to Natural Areas Technician II

A satisfactory combination of education and/or experience as described above in natural areas land management that is equivalent to at least 5 years’ experience. Proficient understanding and working knowledge of ecological restoration and natural areas land management. CPC Internal Candidates:

Demonstrated full proficiency of essential job duties

Satisfactory performance evaluation

This position primarily manages the inventory and ongoing health of the trees planted through the Trees Matter’s Planting Programs. This position is responsible for meeting the goals of the inventory outcomes required by a grant from AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management (AZDFFM), a pass through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding.

Primary Responsibilities:

Build a publishable annual tree inventory report of entire Trees Matter canopy
Conduct regular site visits to measure and evaluate new and existing trees planted by Trees Matter
Update and maintain a database that contains tree information
Conduct data analysis using the tree database
Create reports and suggestions for future plantings based on data analysis
Create reports and suggestions for sites to support ongoing tree health and survival
Establish a schedule for young tree pruning and tree care support
Assist in building procedures for volunteers to help with tree data collection
Adjust and build program based on the needs and the goals of the AZDFFM grant and Trees Matter’s needs

Secondary Responsibilities:

Support Planting Programs Manger with pre-planting site visits
Attend planting and distribution events as necessary
Visit tree nurseries to ensure quality of stock for plantings

Time Requirements:

On average 40 hours a week but there is flexibility on working hours
There will be select weekend events during the week and on weekends where this position will be needed, mostly during Spring and Fall
Spring and Fall will be event season with plantings and education events, Summer and Winter will a key time for data collection for this position
All events will be communicated at least 2-3 weeks in advance, ideally farther in advance

Qualifications:

A successful candidate will display a passion for Trees Matter’s mission to foster and inspire an increased, more equitable tree canopy in the Valley.

Education and Experience:

Certified arborist or plans to become a certified arborist within one year of hiring
At least 2 years of experience in Urban Forestry

Required Qualifications:

Ability to get a fingerprint card
Electronic and computer skills, internet fluency, and experience with Microsoft Office programs
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
Comfort working with a database
Strong inter-personal skills and comfortable in varying environments
Ability to work independently as well as in a group-oriented environment
Ability to work varying schedules, including weekends and evenings as needed
Ability to keep calm and composed under pressure especially during events
Cultural sensitivity/excellent cross cultural communication skills
Self-motivated and takes initiative – self-sufficiency in time management is key
Organizational skills, attention to detail, and multitasking ability
Can work at the office and/or has access to reliable internet and ability to work at home in a quiet environment to handle phone calls with staff, community members, and organizational partners in a professional manner
Must have a valid driver’s license, active insurance policy and access to reliable transportation. This position requires commuting to tree planting locations throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Preferred Qualifications:

Understanding of ARC GIS and CRM mapping systems
Experience with Fulcrum
Proficiency in written and spoken Spanish
A strong local network that can complement our programs and current partnerships
ISA certified Arborist or extensive knowledge of Arizona trees and/or permaculture

Reports to: Planting Programs Manager

Status : Full-time, Non-Exempt (Select weekend & evening work may be required)

Salary: $42K – $46K Full health coverage and some retirement benefits

Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries.

About This Position
This position involves working with the Science Coordinator from mid-April through mid-August 15 to assist with all aspects of a long-term horseshoe crab research project on Mass Audubon’s 1,100-acre coastal wildlife sanctuary in South Wellfleet, MA and other sites around the Outer Cape, plus two sites on Barnstable Harbor. Primary duties are working with and scheduling staff and volunteers to carry out spawning surveys at eight sites and conduct USFWS button tagging project. Other duties include entering, managing, and summarizing data, writing an end-of-season report, coordinating and overseeing up to 50+ spawning survey volunteers, assisting with or conducting educational programs for adults and children, and planning and executing activities to celebrate International Horseshoe Crab Day.

Shared housing may be available at $30.00-35.00 per week.

Responsibilities

Work with the Science Coordinator to schedule and train volunteers to conduct spawning surveys; take the lead on volunteer communications about scheduling and carrying out surveys
Lead or assist with spawning surveys at up to three sites in one day
Conduct button tagging at several beaches, either alone or with volunteers and as part of public programs
Help organize and maintain all field equipment, including surveys kits and quadrats
Ensure volunteers return all data sheets; enter, proof, and summarize data
Maintain photo library of staff and volunteer photos
Maintain effective communication about all job activities with Science Coordinator

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Must Haves

Bachelor’s Degree in marine biology or related field
Field experience and an interest in marine invertebrates or marine biology
Willingness to spend long hours outdoors in the cold and/or sun and on tidal flats and in salt marshes
Willingness to conduct horseshoe crab surveys at night
Valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle

Nice to Haves

Local housing

Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $17.96-$20.20/hour; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. This position may be eligible for health insurance benefits.

Work Schedule
This position begins on April 15, 2025 and ends on August 15, 2025. The schedule is flexible and based on tides and weather, typically 40 hours per week over five days.

Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to play a vital part of our renowned conservation effort to save the world’s cranes and their habitats? The International Crane Foundation (ICF) is seeking motivated and passionate individuals for our Conservation Education Naturalist Internship at our International Headquarters in Baraboo, WI. In this role, you will share the 50+ year story of ICF with the more than 25,000 guests who visit our Cranes of the World exhibit and participate in guided programs, outreach events, and virtual programs. You will also educate our visitors about cranes, conservation, and what they can do to help save this endangered family of birds.

The position runs from March through November 2025, with some flexibility in start and end dates, and includes a stipend of $1,500/month plus housing. Would you like to be surrounded by people who are passionate about our mission, dedicated to the organization, and engaged with their fellow staff and associates? Then read on.

Position Summary

As a Conservation Education Naturalist Intern, you will play an essential role in educating the public about wildlife conservation, particularly focusing on cranes and their habitats. This includes developing and leading daily interpretive tours for various groups, including K-12 schools, community organizations, private groups, and individuals. You will have the opportunity to plan, design, and evaluate engaging programs and materials for these tours. Additionally, you will help with other department goals, objectives, and duties, such as developing projects, creating educational resources, and assisting with volunteer coordination. You will also be responsible for scheduling group tours and promoting events like our Cranes of the World Celebration, Good Neighbor Day, and The Great Midwest Crane Fest. Our visitor center is open daily May – October, and this position requires working at least one day most weekends.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop and lead daily interpretive tours on our site for K-12 schools, community organizations, private groups, and the public. This involves planning, designing, and evaluating interpretive programs and written materials. Tours are given in all weather conditions.
Assist in the completion of projects related to the goals, work plan, and objectives of the Conservation Education Department (e.g., help design and develop self-guided written or audio media; assist with writing, filming, and editing short films about ICF’s work; create, test, and evaluate interpretive programs; assist with ICF’s volunteer program; or research policy-related projects and initiatives, etc.)
Assist with group tour scheduling using volunteer management software.
Plan, organize, promote, and execute at least one onsite event (Mother’s Day, Endangered Species Day, Cranes of the World Celebration, Good Neighbor Day, etc.).
Other outreach programming and events as needed, including off-site events, virtual events, tabling, and programs at local schools.

Core Competencies:

Excellent verbal communication skills, including speaking clearly and persuasively to individuals and groups, listening effectively, and responding well to questions.
Ability to establish project plans, regularly monitor and track progress on work projects, and ensure appropriate communications with project partners.
Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize work and to work with others to meet designated deadlines and desired results.
Attention to detail and thoroughness.
Work as a constructive member of a team, including the free sharing of information and technical expertise as needed.
Demonstrate respect and sensitivity for others; inspire trust; and work with integrity and ethics.
Quickly, effectively, and continually adapt to changes in work environment and duties, processes, and technologies.

Qualifications:

2 years of college preferred but not required. Background in the fields of interpretation, environmental education, conservation biology, ornithology, education, digital marketing, graphic design, film/documentary production, and other related fields given preference.
Excellent oral communication skills, including communicating conservation messages to various audiences, from individuals to lecture halls and across online platforms.
Attention to detail regarding the quality of their own and others’ work, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of large and small projects and products.
A valid driver’s license (USA or International) and an acceptable driving record are required.
All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States when they apply.
Previous outreach experience.
Proficiency with basic Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Excel, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and PowerPoint.
Experience working with volunteers to achieve desired results; train and encourage skill development; access and provide feedback on individual performance.
Exceptional public speaking skills and the ability to teach diverse audiences in a non-formal setting.

Physical Abilities and Work Environment:

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

Ability to operate computers and phones.
Ability to communicate with fellow staff and donors. Communication will include both one-to-one communication, small, and large group communication.
Occasionally required to lift and move items up to 20 pounds.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

PURPOSE. To restore ecological conditions that will sustain and preserve native plant and animal communities in the county’s prairies, wetlands and woodlands. Works with other agency staff and volunteers to remove invasive and exotic vegetation, propagating native plant species, and in some cases reintroduce native wildlife and plants in order to maintain the biodiversity of some of Winnebago County’s high quality open spaces.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following. Other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disability to perform the essential functions unless undue hardship and/or a direct threat to the health and/or safety of the individual or others may result:

Habitat restoration – preparing, mowing, seeding
Supervising volunteers, seasonal, and full-time employees – overseeing projects
Seed harvesting – prairie, woodland, wetland
Herbicide treating of undesirable vegetation
Prescribed burning of designated areas to be restored
Tree cutting and brush removal
Preparing permits, reports, mapping
Working with special interest groups – Boy Scouts, garden clubs, talks, education
Vegetation monitoring – transects, enclosures
Monitoring and maintaining nest boxes
Loads, operates, transports and maintains skid steers, tractors and other related equipment in order to perform loading, hauling, grading of soils, mulch and aggregate, along with loading, hauling, moving trees and brush and/or related materials and supplies in a safe and appropriate manner
Maintaining, operating, and transporting equipment
Fish shocking, stocking
Helping restore natural areas in county right-of-ways
Goose banding, wildlife surveying and deer management
Tree planting
Trail construction
Maintains a working knowledge of and adheres to all risk management and safety programs and procedures
Maintains regular attendance and punctuality
Completes all other duties as requested

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED FOR THE ROLE. Must have a full working knowledge of arboriculture, horticulture, and land preservation. Working knowledge of conservation techniques and principles. Must have excellent people and communication skills.

QUALIFICATIONS. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required:

Must have a valid Driver’s License.
Must currently have a valid Class A CDL, or must have the ability to obtain and maintain within six (6) months of hire/placement.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Illinois Pesticide Applicator’s License within six (6) months of hire/placement.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE. Bachelor’s degree in Restoration Ecology, Horticulture, Biology,
Environmental Science or other relevant field is required. Related field experience is preferred. Basic knowledge of mapping software such as ArcGIS and WinGIS is highly desirable.

Position Overview: The ecologist works with the Garden’s managing ecologists to collaboratively manage the Garden’s natural areas (including our woods, prairie, river, lakes, and shorelines) while supporting applied research and helping to grow our new Stewardship and Ecology of Natural Areas (SENA) program. This includes working with other staff in the Garden’s Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action, as well as staff and programs throughout the Garden to help support related on-site applied research, learning, and community engagement activities. This includes ensuring a welcoming environment and helping to supervise and mentor a diverse team of SENA technicians and volunteers.

Responsibilities

In this role you will be responsible for the following:

STEWARDSHIP (65%): Work with the Garden’s managing ecologists to develop and manage diverse plant communities in natural areas to support native plant species diversity and ecological integrity. Actively manage barrier species (including the use of herbicides); mow; participate in and prepare burn breaks for prescribed burns; remove and oversee the removal of hazardous trees; maintain trails, paths, deer fence, and appearance (e.g., litter collection) associated with the natural areas including woodland roadways and boundaries; and related activities. Collect, clean, and sow seeds and plant native species. Assist managing ecologists in the native seed nursery in planting, weeding, and seed collection. Maintain herbicide application equipment and tools. Prepare herbicide mixes when requested by the natural areas staff and keep record of herbicide use.
MENTORING (30%): Ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment. Support managing ecologists in supervising, mentoring, and training SENA technicians and volunteers.
APPLIED RESEARCH (3%): Assist managing ecologists and research ecologist with native species monitoring in our natural areas. Support development of applied research projects in collaboration with staff ecologists, Garden scientists, undergraduate and graduate students in the plant biology and conservation (PBC) program, and outside collaborators in support of restoration ecology and stewardship at the Garden and regionally.
INTERNAL COLLABORATION (2%): Actively collaborate with other Garden departments as necessary to execute work responsibilities, including Construction, Grounds, and Horticulture, as well as Learning/Engagement and Interpretation to support programs, classes, and interpretation that help diverse audiences learn about and experience the Garden’s natural areas.

Qualifications

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

Required

Minimum three years of hands-on experience in natural areas restoration, stewardship, and prescribed burning
Minimum one year of chainsaw experience
Minimum one year of mentoring individuals from different backgrounds as they conduct restoration and stewardship practices
High comfort level being in and around water along with an ability to swim should the need arise in an emergency
Familiarity with plants of the Chicago region or upper Midwest
Ability to key plant species out using a dichotomous key
Familiarity with midwestern barrier plant species (e.g., buckthorn, lesser celandine) and related stewardship approaches
Valid driver’s license insurable by the Garden

Preferred

Use of ropes and mechanical devices for safely felling mature, hazardous trees
Experience with different habitat monitoring approaches to inform stewardship activities
Possess Illinois pesticide applicator license and s130/s190/Chicago Wilderness prescribed burning certification
Mechanical ability to use and do minimum equipment maintenance on tools such as chainsaws, brush cutters, string trimmers, pumps, and leaf blowers

Physical Demands: Frequent, standing, walking, bending, listening, speaking, lifting, pushing, working, and walking outdoors on uneven terrain and wetland habitats, including during inclement weather. Exposure to poison ivy, bees, ticks, mosquitoes, pollen, other potential allergens, and wildlife. Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds. Licensed driver insurable by the Society.

Two biologist positions available. One will office in Woodville, TX (counties of responsibility: Tyler, Hardin, and Liberty); one will office at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX (counties of responsibility: Walker and Montgomery).

Under the direction of the District 7 Leader, these positions are responsible for performing the professional planning and implementation of natural resource management, monitoring, and research duties associated with wildlife and habitat resources within the Pineywoods ecological region of the District 7 Wildlife District. Provides technical assistance and public outreach programs to the general public, private landowners/land managers, sportsmen, and new constituencies. Develops comprehensive wildlife management plans for private landowners upon request. Disseminates information to the general public through news releases, radio/TV interviews, program presentations, and other public outreach and educational opportunities. Performs administrative duties and prepares technical reports, popular articles, and professional journal publications. Responsible in assigned area for public relations and educational/extension efforts to involve private citizens and organizations in support of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) programs. Identifies public hunting and non-consumptive use opportunities on public and private lands. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.

Education:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree preferably in Wildlife Science, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Ecology, Range and Wildlife Management, or closely related field in Natural Resources Management. Major coursework from Bachelor’s or post-Bachelor’s degree programs must include a minimum of 24 hours in Wildlife/Habitat Conservation, Wildlife/Natural Resources Management, Wildlife Biology, and/or Research Methods.

Experience:

NRS I: No experience required;

NRS II: Two years relevant experience;

NRS III: Six years relevant experience.

Licensure:

Applicant must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a valid State driver’s license;

Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, the National Wildfire Coordinating Group’s (NWCG) Fire Fighter Type II (FFT II) certification.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license and certification.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to pass, within one year of employment, the FFT II moderate duty physical fitness standard (walk 2 miles with a 25 lb. pack in 30 minutes or less) OR the arduous duty physical fitness standard (walk 3 miles with 45 lb. pack in 45 minutes or less).

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon meeting and maintaining physical requirements.

General Summary

Responsible for on-the-ground implementation of natural resource management priorities to support the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission’s Natural Resource Management goals across the county parks and Oakland County. Assist Natural Resource Program Coordinators in implementing natural resources priorities by executing on-the-ground natural resources activities. Leads the implementation of maintenance activities of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission’s Natural Resource Management units, and delegates responsibilities to a crew. Assists the Natural Resource Program Coordinator in monitoring and evaluating the performance of staff and recommends modifications as appropriate. Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

WHEN ASSIGNED TO FRESHWATER

Responsible for surveying and monitoring of lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, removal or treatment of non-native or nuisance plant and animal species through manual, mechanical or chemical methods, specialized surveying for aquatic wildlife species such as fish or crustaceans, and restoration of aquatic or wetland habitats.
Required Minimum Qualifications

1. a. Possess a Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental studies, ecology, botany, natural resources, freshwater management/limnology, wildlife management, forestry or a closely related field of study;
AND

NOTE: Applicants possessing transcripts from a college or university outside of the United States will be required to provide documentation of degree equivalency from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (http://naces.org/members.html). The degree evaluation will be required for application processing.

b. Have had six (6) months of full-time work experience in an area related to natural areas, forestry, invasive species, freshwater stewardship, or wildlife management;

OR

a. Have had two (2) years of college coursework in biology, environmental studies, ecology, botany, natural resources, freshwater management/limnology, wildlife management, forestry or a closely related field of study;
AND
b. Have had two (2) years of full-time work experience in an area related natural areas, forestry, invasive species, freshwater stewardship, or wildlife management, including six (6) months of leadership and/or supervisory experience;

OR

a. Must be a high school graduate or have a certificate of successful completion of the General Education Development Test; AND
b. Have had four (4) years of full-time work experience in an area related natural areas, forestry, invasive species, freshwater stewardship, or wildlife management, including one (1) year of leadership and/or supervisory experience.

Special Requirements

Maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.
Within six (6) months of hire, obtain and maintain a Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators certification.
When Assigned to Natural Areas: within six (6) months of hire, must obtain and maintain a wildland firefighter certification.

Pay Range
USD $57,747.00 – USD $77,370.00 /Yr.

The Water and Agriculture Program Manager leads and advances a conservation program to engage the agricultural sector and other water users through freshwater conservation strategies that incentivize sustainable use of water in Texas and meet TNC’s 2030 conservation goals. This will include developing relationships with agricultural producer groups, the corporate sector, agencies, and other partners to facilitate conservation agreements and advance the adoption of agricultural practices enhancing water quantity, soil health, water quality, habitat, and climate resilience. This position will help organize, manage, and lead meetings, trainings, and outreach events, including the establishment of materials for collaboration among water users including farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, government agencies, conservation groups and scientists. They will assist with water and land transactions in focal geographies that achieve the flow restoration and conservation goals of TNC. They will address critical threats to natural systems and individual species, foster cross-site learning among partners, and implement collaborative solutions within the agricultural community to achieve conservation outcomes.

The responsibility and scope of the position are to:

Report to the Director of Water and Science as part of the Freshwater team and collaborate, as part of a matrixed organization, within the Texas chapter, Great Plains Division and North America Region.
Develop relationships with water users and members of the agriculture sector in Texas.
Advance conservation agreements with rural landowners and water users, including agricultural producers.
Collaborate closely with TNC Great Plains Division and North America Region staff to advance organizational strategies and identify opportunities to leverage existing programs and relationships to the agricultural sector in Texas.
Coordinate with external affairs staff on water policy efforts.
Work closely with other programs (e.g., landscapes initiatives and nature and energy teams) throughout the Texas Chapter to meet program and chapter objectives.
Will require frequent travel within Texas.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

If you are looking for a career to help people and nature, come join the Texas Chapter as the Water and Agriculture Program Specialist! Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together.

We’re looking for someone who is a creative, passionate, motivated problem-solver to advance strategies within the Texas Chapter and our Division. Come join TNC and apply today!
WHAT YOU’LL BRING

BA/BS degree and 5 years’ experience in conservation practice, agronomy, agriculture or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Demonstrated background in agriculture, ideally regenerative crop practices and/or irrigation efficiency.
Experience in partnership development, preferably with Texas agricultural producer groups, corporate sector and state and federal agencies.
Experience managing complex or multiple projects including workload, finances, and negotiating complex agreements.
Experience communicating with the public and/or media both in writing and verbally..

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Familiarity with federal and state farm & ranch support programs, particularly those being used to incentivize improvements in conservation.
Knowledge of current trends, practices in water use, agricultural conservation, land management, and natural resource preservation.
Experience with Texas water policy and/or water law, regulation, and management.