Job Tag: Conservation

The Conservation Director plays a critical role in shaping Nevada Land Trust’s conservation program. The Director leads a talented team and oversees land acquisitions, conservation easements, and large-scale collaborative projects from initial engagement through stewardship in perpetuity. Working closely with the Executive Director, the Director strengthens the conservation program, develops staff, and brings people and resources together to expand the impact of Nevada Land Trust’s work.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE OF THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE
7+ years of progressively responsible land conservation or natural resources experience
Experience in land trust, conservation, or environmental nonprofit organizations
Direct experience working with board committees
Experience developing strategic alliances and partnerships
Experience supervising direct reports
Track record of promoting a collaborative work environment where staff are heard, and where staff are motivated and inspired to perform at their highest levels
Able to build and sustain an organizational culture of accountability
Demonstrated success leading complex conservation projects from beginning to closing
Experience developing conservation strategy, annual work plans, and departmental budget
Experience securing and managing public and private grants and funding
Demonstrated ability to represent an organization in high-level partnerships
Demonstrated experience managing land transactions and/or stewardship programs
Experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects
Deep knowledge of conservation easements, real estate, and land protection tools
Experience with conservation law, land use policy, and relevant state and federal programs
Knowledge of or strong interest in NLT’s natural resource and cultural issues
Experience working with rural communities and landowners
Experience working and building relationships with people of different backgrounds and a wide range of perspectives, views, and ideas
Experience working with government agencies
Ability to work with political leaders individually or in groups to achieve objectives
Outstanding communicator: excellent speaking, writing, and listening skills
Commitment to principles of cultural humility in working with diverse communities

Hybrid: 35 hours/week and 2 days per week in office

The Wilderness Society is a national conservation organization dedicated to protecting America’s wild places since 1935. Our mission is to unite people to protect America’s wild places. Through science, advocacy and partnerships with communities and policymakers, we champion the protection of wilderness, national parks, forests, and other public lands that provide clean air and water, wildlife habitat and the freedom to connect with nature. For more information, visit www.wilderness.org.

Position Overview

Reporting to the National Campaign Director and working with programs across the organization, the Conservation Manager will develop and execute organizational projects and initiatives throughout the country. They will engage in a range of campaigns through partnerships, coalition building and coordination, campaign planning, outreach activities, communications, and other efforts. They will represent TWS in coalitions, in communications with elected officials, agency officials, and other decision makers and their staff, and in the media.
This position plays a critical role in fostering an organizational culture where people feel respected, included, and accountable to shared goals and outcomes. TWS has made it a priority to ensure that our public lands work reflects fairness, representation, and accessibility. This leader will carry those commitments into our conservation campaign work—expanding partnerships, strengthening community connections, and ensuring our work is responsive to a broad range of perspectives and needs. Across our team, we aspire to be campaign-oriented, collaborative, innovative, transparent, and supportive of staff – our greatest asset.

Qualifications

The Wilderness Society’s conservation campaigns program has established clear goals for protecting public lands, defending bedrock conservation laws from attack, and ensuring that all Americans equitably benefit from our public lands. We value strong communicators, research skills, and interest in developing policies and programs that can achieve lasting protections for our public lands and positive change for our communities. We pride ourselves on having staff that know the communities in which they work and can organize and work with everyone across multiple states.

Experience & Competencies

Minimum 7 years of progressively more complex professional experience working on issue/advocacy or political campaigns, natural resource management issues, or public policy.
Proven track record of building and maintaining strong collaborations, relationships and networks among diverse stakeholders.
Strong knowledge of public lands, environmental, and/or conservation.
Ability to think and act strategically to achieve campaign and landscape conservation goals in a dynamic environment.
Experience managing complex processes involving a wide range of interests, strategically balancing multiple assignments and priorities, and meeting deadlines with consistently high-quality work.
Excellent communication skills, with an ability to write and speak concisely and persuasively to diverse audiences.
Ability to evaluate information on an ongoing basis and modify approach to the work to adapt to changing circumstances.
Strong leadership qualities, rooted in inclusion, capable of operating effectively with diverse audiences and colleagues, and committed to working with others in accomplishing our goals in an inclusive manner.
Motivated self-starter with the ability to take initiative, develop ideas, and see them through implementation, and who is comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.
Willingness and ability to travel throughout our target states, but also to Washington, D.C., and other locations as necessary.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of this position and it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of experience, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position.

This position can be done remotely or TWS office (where applicable) in the following states: CO, NM, AZ, NV, CA, UT, ID, WA, or OR. The salary range for this position is $92,000- $108,000 depending on location.

Job Summary:

Develops, implements and manages the South Carolina Aquarium’s horticultural projects including internal exhibits, external exhibits, off-site nursery and other plant displays.

Essential Functions:

Adhere to South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures.
Demonstrate a love of working with South Carolina native plants.
Assist Curator in developing the horticulture program for the South Carolina Aquarium.
Oversee the daily care and aesthetics of all plant displays including all aspects of plant culture, rotation of plant material, management of animal interaction with plant material, etc.
Participate in research, design, modification and development of new exhibits/systems at the SCA and nursery.
Establish and cultivate relationships with local and regional plant resources.
Acquires and/or propagates all Aquarium plant material.
Manage off-site nursery facilities.
Develop and maintain off exhibit plant propagation and holding area (nursery) through normal nursery practices.
Maintain accurate records and reports.
Develop, execute and provide knowledge and expertise for field projects involving the use of existing or installed native plant material for habitat reclamation and enhancement.
Liaison with the City of Charleston for horticultural activities on National Park Service property adjacent to the Aquarium.
Helps develop and maintain budget for horticultural needs.
Manage the pest management program for SCA.
Assist with special projects as requested by the Curator.
Provide coverage for other animal care positions as required.
Be flexible with work schedule, being able to work weekends, holidays and evenings.
Work unsupervised and make decisions consistent with the team philosophy.
Train and supervise horticulture volunteers and interns, providing mentorship and support for the Aquarium’s internship program.
Adhere to all South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures.
Assist aquarium staff and visitors as needed in a pleasant, professional and courteous manner.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

Support the mission by participating in Aquarium sponsored programs and events on a regular basis.
Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment used in horticultural operations.
Cross-train in other areas of animal care.
Respond to visitor and telephone inquiries.
Keep abreast with current related literature.
Attend and makes presentations to professional conferences and meetings.
Participate in cross-functional activities like conducting tours, educational programs, member programs, committees, etc.
Work with and supervise outside contractors.
Liaison with the owners of nursery location.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Strong knowledge of the practices and principles of horticulture in a botanical garden setting and in botanical/zoological mixed species exhibits.
Knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Southeastern U.S., especially as it pertains to South Carolina native plant communities.
Skilled in all aspects of plant culture including watering, fertilization, pruning, pest management, plant propagation, etc.
Good organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of organic/natural pesticide and fungicide control.

Education and Experience Required:

Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany or related field, or the equivalent to a degree in experience
Minimum of three years’ experience in a related field

Licenses & Certifications Required:

Valid Driver’s License
South Carolina pesticide license (or ability to acquire)

Supervision of Others:

Horticulture and other Animal Care volunteers
Interns

Physical Requirements:

Requires average walking, standing, bending, stooping, and crouching, climbing ladders, sitting, kneeling, balancing, pushing and pulling, crawling, working with tools, computer tasks and phone usage; should be able to lift/carry at least 50 lbs.; requires driving Aquarium vehicles.

Salary Range: $42,000.00 To $50,000.00 Annually

Trees Forever is a nonprofit organization dedicated to planting and caring for trees by empowering people, building community, and promoting environmental stewardship.
Trees Forever is seeking a full-time Growing Futures Program Coordinator based in the Des Moines area. This position leads tree care initiatives, coordinate tree planting efforts, and oversee the Growing Futures program. This role supervises crews, supports participant development through hands-on training and professional growth opportunities, engages community partners, and ensures effective program delivery through coordination and evaluation.
Key Responsibilities
Plan, implement, and supervise three annual sessions of Growing Futures (April–May, June–August, September–November)
Recruit, hire, and supervise a diverse team of youth participants, adult team leads, and community volunteers, fostering an inclusive and motivated program environment
Provide leadership and guidance to program teams, ensuring adherence to organizational values and standards
Build and sustain partnerships with community organizations, fostering collaboration and support for the program
Supervise and guide teams to ensure progress towards program goals and outcomes
Coordinate career development initiatives, including life skills training and guest speakers focused on career readiness and green job opportunities
Evaluate program outcomes through data analysis and feedback from participants, partners, and stakeholders, recommending improvements as needed
Organize and lead tree planting programs activities while overseeing tree care and maintenance efforts
Represent the Growing Futures program at public forums, conferences, and community events to promote the program and its impact
Complete required reporting, including weekly, monthly, and annual including monthly and annual program summaries

Qualifications & Skills
High school diploma or GED required
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Excellent organizational abilities and comfort managing multiple priorities
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with partners and team members
Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds during planting and outreach activities
Valid U.S. driver’s license and reliable transportation
Comfort working outdoors in various conditions and performing physical tasks
Preferred: Bachelor’s degree; experience in outdoor education and leadership; knowledge of tree and shrub species including tree care; ability to operate vans/trailers (training provided)

Compensation
Salary range: $46,600 – $50,000

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks a Specialist for the Sustainable Ranching Initiative (SRI), based in the Great Plains. SRI works with ranchers, Tribal communities, partner organizations, and public agencies to conserve one of the world’s most threatened grassland ecosystems by advancing sustainable grazing systems, improving ranch viability, and restoring wildlife habitat across working landscapes. The program combines technical assistance, conservation incentives, ecological monitoring, and collaborative partnerships to support durable conservation outcomes on privately managed working lands.

The Specialist will serve as the operational lead for the Ranch Infrastructure Fund (RIF), coordinating the successful delivery of conservation infrastructure projects across the Great Plains. The position oversees project workflows from application through closeout, develops and maintains program systems and standard operating procedures, coordinates with SRI field staff, ranchers, consultants, engineers, contractors, and partner organizations, and serves as the primary liaison between SRI and WWF Program Operations. The Specialist ensures conservation projects are delivered consistently, efficiently, and in compliance with WWF policies and funding requirements while continuously improving program processes and supporting implementation across the broader SRI.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, agriculture, environmental science, project management, business administration, engineering technology, or related field.
At least 5 years of relevant professional experience.
Experience with GIS, databases, or project management software required.
Experience coordinating complex projects involving multiple stakeholders.
Experience with USDA Farm Bill conservation programs, specific understanding or experience with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs and processes is highly preferred.
Experience developing and managing project budgets, contracts, agreements, reimbursements, or grant-funded projects in a ranching or private lands context required.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently while coordinating across multidisciplinary teams.
Willingness to travel throughout the Great Plains (approximately 20–30%, seasonally variable).

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with ranchers or agricultural producers.
Familiarity with grazing management or conservation infrastructure projects.
Experience with specific NRCS programs: particularly EQIP and RCPP.
Experience coordinating consultants or technical service providers.
Experience supporting grant reporting and proposal development.

Compensation: $71,000 – $88,700/yearly

The Bainbridge Island Land Trust (BILT) seeks an exceptional Executive Director to lead its mission of conserving and stewarding the diverse natural environments of Bainbridge Island for the benefit of all. This is an opportunity to lead an organization with a deep legacy, strong community relationships, and an important role to play in shaping the future of Bainbridge Island.

The Executive Director:
represents the vision and mission of the Bainbridge Island Land Trust within the community
builds a collaborative and strong organization
inspires, leads, and manages a professional team of ten+ employees
reports to and collaborates with a working board of fifteen directors
pursues all avenues of fundraising
manages the operations and financial success of the organization with the highest integrity
develops and maintains effective partnerships with community agencies
collaborates with local, state, and tribal sovereigns, and communicates with a broad base of donors, landowners, and community members

Position Responsibilities
Providing visionary strategic leadership and tactical guidance to the Board and staff in key process and policy areas
Developing and directing plans to implement the organization’s mission and strategic plan
Working actively on fundraising, including building and maintaining successful relationships with donors and various funding agencies and businesses
Developing and supporting a healthy, collaborative, and positive work environment for the staff
Preparing and implementing annual budgets, work plans, and long-term strategic plans
Supporting the Board in maintaining strong governing bylaws, policies and business practices
Ensuring sound business and financial oversight in daily business operations, including all contracting activities for services, products, and property
Drafting and implementing effective agendas and materials in collaboration with the President and Executive Committee, in order to hold engaging and educational monthly Board meetings that advance strategic goals
Leading and maintaining the human resources system for recruiting, retaining, developing, and enhancing the skills and talents of a high-functioning staff and Board
Maintaining positive relationships and building mutual understanding with the key regional partners through effective communication and outreach
Representing the Bainbridge Island Land Trust at events, conferences, and meetings

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE OF THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE
Passion for BILT’s mission and vision
5+ years of senior management experience
Strong experience developing and executing strategy and vision for an organization and/or department
Demonstrated ability to understand and oversee organizational finances, including budgeting, financial forecasting, cash flow, financial reporting, internal controls, and risk management. Able to interpret financial statements and use financial information to make sound strategic and operational decisions
Experience managing an organization or department with multiple programs
Experience leading a team of 3+ direct reports
Track record of promoting a collaborative work environment where staff are heard, and where staff are motivated and inspired to perform at their highest levels
Experience working in conservation
Familiarity with natural resource protection, including the principles of ecology and conservation biology
Familiarity and understanding of the PNW’s environmental/conservation issues
Outstanding communicator: excellent speaking, writing, and listening skills
Can tell BILT’s story in a compelling and authentic way
Experience developing and building alliancesand partnerships
Comfortable navigating diverse governmental relationships
Able to develop and maintain relationships with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders
Commitment to principles of cultural humility in working with diverse communities
Ability to be a big picture thinker in terms of diversifying funding streams
Comfortable and willing to make gift solicitations
Track record of building strong, trusting relationships with public and private partners to address complex issues and develop innovative solutions
Strong organizational skills and a business orientation that leverages and optimizes resources

Highly Preferred:
Experience in nonprofit and/or governmental organizations
Direct experience working with and/or reporting to a board of directors or board committee
Experience with building relationships with donors
Experience working with government agencies

Preferred:
Experience with and/or knowledge of conservation easements

Salary Range: $150,000 – $180,000

The Natural Resources & Trails Supervisor is responsible for overseeing and actively participating in the maintenance, management, and enhancement of the City’s natural open spaces, asphalt trails infrastructure, and urban forestry program.

This role involves approximately 70% fieldwork, including supervising crews, inspecting sites, and performing hands-on maintenance – and 30% administrative duties such as planning, budgeting, reporting, and project coordination. The Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the sustainable management and safe, accessible use of outdoor spaces that promote community recreation and environmental well-being.

The job requires the ability to maintain a collaborative and cooperative working relationship with elected and appointed officials, other City employees, other organizations, and the general public.

The work environment includes an office, shop, and outdoor environment where the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee works in varied weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to noisy and/or loud equipment, moving vehicles, and equipment which subjects the employee to hazards.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

High School diploma or GED required;
Associate degree or higher in Parks and Recreation Management, Urban Forestry, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or related field preferred OR 4 years of related full-time work or military experience related to degree preferred;
Class B CDL*;
International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist certification*.

Knowledge of:

Urban forestry principles, asphalt trail maintenance, natural resource management, and environmental compliance;
Methods, techniques, and objectives of natural open space, turf, native habitat, and landscaping maintenance;
Safe operation of hand and power tools;
Employee supervision, training, evaluation, and disciplinary methods, techniques, and objectives;
Budgeting processes, including formulating and implementation;
Preparation and maintenance of documents, records, and logs;
Operation of a personal computer and job-related software applications;
City policies regarding safe work practices relating to use of equipment, power tools, ladders and bucket trucks, grounds keeping equipment, light and medium equipment, and repair and maintenance materials.

Skill and Ability to:

Operate maintenance equipment and perform physically demanding outdoor work in varied weather conditions;
Supervise and direct the operations, maintenance, repair, and construction operations of the City Parks Department;
Supervise and perform maintenance and restoration of natural open spaces, turf, native habitats, and landscaped areas;
Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate the work of full-time and part-time/seasonal employees;
Operate hand and power tools and a motor vehicle;
Operate a personal computer, including programs and applications specific to the duties;
Develop preventative maintenance plans and safety inspections;
Maintain maintenance records, logs, and documentation;
Implement an annual budget and monitor spending for compliance;
Work on multiple projects, set priorities, and allocate resources for project completion;
Work independently and exercise initiative, with general guidance and supervision;
Communicate effectively in the English language at a level necessary for efficient job performance;
Maintain a professional demeanor at all times;
Perform all duties in accordance with City policies and procedures with regard for personal safety and that of other employees and the public.

Salary: $29.06 per hour

Kennebec Land Trust (KLT) is a nationally accredited land trust that has been conserving the natural and working lands of central Maine for more than 35 years. With over 1100 members, we conserve more than 8,200 acres of land and maintain a growing network of over 61 miles of trails. Through conservation, stewardship, education, and community partnerships, we protect important natural resources, provide access to conserved lands, connect people to the outdoors, and work with local and statewide partners to advance conservation.

KLT is seeking an experienced, collaborative leader to serve as our next Executive Director. This is an opportunity to lead a respected conservation organization with a strong reputation, dedicated staff, an engaged Board of Directors, committed volunteers, and loyal members and supporters. Building on KLT’s strong foundation, the next Executive Director will guide the organization through its next chapter by strengthening relationships, supporting staff, advancing fundraising efforts, and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

● Provide overall executive and operational leadership for Kennebec Land Trust, ensuring the organization strategically advances its mission and long-term sustainability.

● Work closely with the Board of Directors to support effective governance, develop and implement organizational strategy, implement Board-approved priorities, and provide regular updates on organizational performance.

● Lead and develop a high-performing staff by fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture.

● Oversee the organization’s financial management, budgeting, and long-term financial sustainability, working closely with the Treasurer and Finance Committee to support sound financial planning and oversight.

● Lead fundraising efforts, including building and maintaining relationships with individual donors, foundations, businesses, and other funding partners.

● Serve as KLT’s primary spokesperson and represent the organization with members, volunteers, donors, municipalities, conservation organizations, community partners, and the public.

● Identify and develop partnerships that advance KLT’s mission and strengthen the organization’s long-term impact.

● Support KLT’s land conservation, stewardship, education, and community engagement efforts by working with staff to establish priorities and allocate resources.

● Ensure compliance with applicable laws, Land Trust Alliance Standards and Practices, accreditation requirements, and Board policies.

Qualifications

● Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience. An advanced degree in a field relevant to nonprofit leadership, conservation, or organizational management is preferred.

● Significant senior leadership experience within a nonprofit organization along with a demonstrated track record of strong strategic thinking, decision-making, execution of strategy, and other organizational leadership skills. Leadership experience in land conservation or a related field is preferred.

● A genuine commitment to land conservation and KLT’s mission.

● Experience with nonprofit financial management and budgeting.

● Demonstrated fundraising success, including donor cultivation, stewardship, and grant development.

● Understanding of human resource management and experience leading and developing staff.

● Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders such as donors, volunteers, municipalities, partner organizations, and community members and leaders.

● Ability to effectively use current technology and systems and identify opportunities to improve efficiency through their use.

● Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Salary Range: $87,000 – $106,200

Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT) is a nationally accredited nonprofit land trust dedicated to protecting Colorado’s natural areas, wildlife habitat, streams and rivers, working ranches, and historic lands for future generations. Since 1992, MALT has conserved more than 28,000 acres across a six-county service area encompassing Jefferson, Clear Creek, Park, Gilpin, Teller, and Boulder counties.

The Opportunity

The Executive Director has the opportunity to lead a respected, nationally accredited land trust at an important time for conservation in Colorado’s mountain communities. Building on more than three decades of accomplishments, the next Executive Director will help shape MALT’s future and expand its impact in protecting the land, water, wildlife, and places that define Colorado’s way of life.

Serving as MALT’s chief executive officer and reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides strategic, organizational, and community leadership in advancing the organization’s mission. Working closely with staff and the Board, the Executive Director establishes strategic priorities, secures the resources needed to accomplish them, and serves as a visible ambassador for MALT, cultivating the relationships and resources needed to ensure the organization’s continued success.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

A strong commitment to MALT’s mission and to the permanent protection of Colorado’s land, water, wildlife, and way of life.
Leadership experience in nonprofit operations and a strong understanding of the essential role fundraising and donor relationships play in sustaining mission impact.
Demonstrated success in organizational management, strategic planning, staff leadership, and financial oversight.
Established roots in, or strong familiarity with, MALT’s six-county service area—particularly Evergreen—and an understanding of the communities, landscapes, and relationships that shape MALT’s work.
Experience cultivating donors, securing philanthropic support, or leading a comprehensive fundraising program.
Experience working effectively with a governing Board.
Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and public-speaking skills, with the ability to develop trusted relationships across diverse constituencies.
Sound judgment, integrity, emotional intelligence, and a collaborative, approachable leadership style grounded in humility, mutual respect, and open communication.

Preferred Experience

Experience in land conservation, natural-resource management, environmental education, or a related field.
Familiarity with conservation easements, land transactions, long-term stewardship obligations, or Land Trust Alliance standards and practices.
Knowledge of Colorado’s conservation community, rural and mountain communities, or relevant public agencies.
Experience overseeing organizational growth, facilities, fee-owned properties, or multiple program areas.

Compensation and Location

This is a full-time, exempt position based in MALT’s Evergreen, Colorado office, with regular travel throughout MALT’s service area; some evening and weekend activities are required. The anticipated salary range is $108,000–$125,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. MALT also offers a competitive benefits package, including health and life insurance, a SIMPLE IRA with an employer contribution, and paid time off.