Gardener

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 $1.5 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.

Position Summary:

The Gardener in the Landscape Management Department of the Central Park Conservancy provides all manner of care to the landscape and planting areas within the park. The Gardener supports the care and maintenance of hardscape areas within an assigned Section. The Gardener works under the guidance of the Section Manager, Assistant Manager and Foreperson. It is expected that the Gardener will work within and across their Section and with other staff in Landscape Management to perform their primary tasks.

Essential Duties:

Technical Responsibilities:

Care for and maintain all plant beds and their surrounding landscapes in an assigned Section according to an established schedule to organizational standards. Monitor landscape plants for insects and diseases.
Perform pruning, weeding, planting, mulching, irrigation, raking, leaf-blowing, sweeping, basic irrigation system maintenance, and other related tasks.
Prepare landscape beds for planting. Plant annuals, perennials, bulbs, woody plants and trees in compliance with approved design. Perform all manner of horticultural care, routine and seasonal maintenance, cultivation, transplanting, and pruning as necessary.
Install and repair fence as needed and as directed
Support waste management operation by picking up and performing proper disposal of trash in landscapes, paths, and perimeter; empties trash cans as necessary; sweep around benches, stairs and entryways
Perform snow removal and ice mitigation on paths, entrances, playgrounds, perimeter, and other hard surfaces with machines and hand labor to provide appropriate levels of access as per established organizational standards
Maintain surface drainage by keeping catch basins free of debris during heavy rainstorms and snow and ice in the winter months

Collaboration & Communication:

Work with volunteers and seasonal interns
Cooperate with other staff within the department and other department personnel in completing assigned tasks
Display the necessary initiative and dependability to work alone or in groups
Keep supervision informed on important developments concerning assigned landscape management tasks
Keep records and makes simple written reports
Ability to use Microsoft Office and other software applications
Interact with Park patrons and colleagues in a professional manner and answer plant identification questions
Assist in the preparation of special events as needed

Related Work:

Operate various types of equipment including utility vehicle, light or medium weight trucks and tractors
Maintain tools and equipment in good working order and report items that require repair
Participate in all training sessions and seminars
Provide reports of malfunctioning infrastructure, furnishings, safety hazards, and quality of life issues
Perform related work as assigned

Qualifications:

A certificate from a horticulture or botanical program containing college-level courses, such as programs offered by the New York Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden or a bachelor’s degree from accredited college in a related field; or
Two years of full-time experience in gardening work, including experience in caring for trees, shrubs, perennial and annual plant material, and lawns; or
Satisfactory combination of education and/or experience that is equivalent to #2 above.
Possess a fundamental understanding and working knowledge of gardening; ornamental and native plant cyclical care including planting, pruning, irrigation, fertilization, weeding, transplanting, and removals.
Valid Drivers’ License that must be maintained for duration of employment
Ability to identify ornamental and native plant material specific to the northeast US
Ability to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed
Ability to lift 50lbs. and perform heavy physical labor daily in all weather conditions

Note: This is in-person (not remote role).

Salary range:

Gardener I $48,000 – $58,000 (based on level of experience)

Protected Species Observer

New England Marine Monitoring is a leading provider of fishery data collection services. We employ highly skilled, enthusiastic staff and empower them with expert training and technologies, including artificial intelligence tools. NEMM provides At-Sea Monitoring (ASM), Protected Species Observing (PSO), Industry Funded Scallop Observing (IFS) and Electronic Monitoring (EM) services to US fisheries.

New England Marine Monitoring is an investor backed fisheries technology startup with an exciting growth trajectory, seeking candidates looking to begin a long term career with our organization. For highly motivated candidates, paths towards management positions are available.

We are currently hiring Protected Species Observers.

Following training and approval, deployments can range from 4 weeks to 8 weeks, depending on the role and available trips.

Requirements:

Fully vaccinated for COVID-19
Be able to work on a flexible schedule with periods of long hours
Be physically and mentally capable of the responsibilities of working at sea
Be able to pass all training requirements

Preferred Attributes:

Desire and motivation to work in a high-growth business
Interest in a fisheries technology career
Experience with mammal identification
Background in fisheries, marine science, scientific fieldwork, or biology
Experience on boats
Currently holding Protected Species Observing certifications

To apply, please e-mail your resume, cover letter, and two references to as****@****************ng.com.

Forests & Wildlife Program Director

Job Summary:

The Forests & Wildlife Program Director provides ongoing management and leadership for NRCM’s efforts to protect the natural character of the ecologically, economically, and recreationally important woods and wildlife of Maine. General responsibilities include advocacy before the Legislature and administrative bodies, communications with the media and public, collaboration with coalition partners, and project planning and implementation. The Program Director develops, maintains, and utilizes technical expertise on key policy issues in areas such as the ecological and economic values of Maine’s North Woods, habitat conservation, biodiversity, forest policy, outdoor recreation, and land use planning.

Respect, inclusion, and opportunity for people of all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives will attract the best ideas to NRCM and help us shape a healthier, more vibrant future for all of us who share our planet. By honoring and celebrating people’s diversity, NRCM can bring new creativity, effectiveness, and leadership to our work throughout the state. Achieving diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice is a continuous process, which, we believe, will contribute to a sustainable and peaceful world. We therefore strongly encourage applications from people who identify with or who are members of marginalized communities.

Qualifications:

At least five years of professional experience
Law degree or master’s degree in a relevant field of study preferred
Experience in program development, campaign planning, and project management
Demonstrated leadership skills, including ability to think strategically and motivate others toward common goals
Excellent communications and advocacy skills across a range of settings, including persuasive writing, responding to the media, and public speaking
Ability to learn policy issues quickly and to effectively communicate complex issues
Ability to work with diverse constituencies through a team-based approach, including legislators, staff from other nonprofits, business leaders, NRCM supporters, coalitions, and the general public
Enterprising, motivated, entrepreneurial, and undaunted
Commitment and passion for environmental issues and NRCM’s mission, with professional and/or personal experience with Maine’s woods and waters preferred

Job Responsibilities:

Provides leadership for NRCM’s Forests & Wildlife Program, including policy development and advocacy; project planning, management, and implementation; and public speaking and media engagement.
Help design and implement issue campaigns.
Represent NRCM on program issues to external audiences.
Develop and deliver testimony to the State Legislature and administrative bodies in support of legislation, policies, and regulations related to Maine’s forests and wildlife.
Identify and develop support from key individuals, businesses, and organizations.
Help catalyze support and engagement from activists, legislators, the media, and public through written and oral communications.
Coordinate policy campaign activities through meetings and communications with coalition partners and program supporters.
Identify analytic and policy campaign materials to promote policy objectives and work with communications, outreach, and philanthropy staff to develop, fund, and distribute such products.
With input from NRCM colleagues, develop annual program plan and budget, and manage and track workplan progress and expenditures.
Assist the Philanthropy and Communications Teams with NRCM’s marketing, membership, organizational development initiatives, and grant/fundraising strategies as needed.

To Apply: For consideration, please submit both a cover letter and resume. Preference will be given to applications received by July 19, 2024. Applicants who need an alternative way to submit materials may email them as attachments to jo**@**cm.org or mail them to NRCM, Attention HR, 3 Wade Street, Augusta, ME 04330.

Supervisor: Senior Director of Advocacy
Status: Full-time, Salaried, Exempt
Salary: $70,000-85,000
Location: Augusta, ME/hybrid
Union: This position is a member of the bargaining unit

Aquarium Director

The Living Shores Director is responsible for aquarium floor operations and life support systems and is the subject matter expert in animal care. The director will lead and supervise the Animal Care, Education and Life-Support System (LSS) professionals to develop and maintain a safe, healthy, and enrichment-filled environment for the collection. The Aquarium Director is responsible for the smooth operation of the facility and ensuring the guest experience exceeds expectations. The ideal candidate will have experience with change management, capital projects and leading a facility in transition.

We are currently looking for a:

Aquarium Director

Roles & Responsibilities:

Roles & Responsibilities

The roles and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Ensuring animal welfare and the safety of the facility, team members, and guests is the top priority.
Working with the designated veterinarian to schedule examinations on an ongoing basis.
Developing, maintaining, and tracking animal welfare records.
Maintaining the Aquarium and animal exhibits in compliance with applicable government regulations, industry standards and company policy.
Leading the Animal Care and Education professionals through training and continuing education. Providing leadership to foster high team member morale and motivation throughout the aquarium.
Enriching the team’s knowledge and abilities in all aspects of behavioral theory and husbandry procedures, including food preparation, disinfection procedures, vitamin administration, record-keeping, animal observation, conditioning techniques, and showmanship skills through active participation.
Reviewing and revising Standard Operating Procedures as the facility’s tanks, exhibits, and animals change.
Managing the procurement process and purchasing supplies, equipment, and animal food.
Handling the acquisition and disposition of animals, developing, and curating the aquarium collection (fishes, inverts, insects, and reptiles) and acclimating and training native animals.
Managing the Education Coordinator and working closely with Marketing & Sales to develop and grow the educational programs.
Determining and acting on the best course of treatment or remediation for fish and invertebrate health and disease issues.
Coordinating and scheduling the Aquarium Manager on Duty program.
Interviewing, hiring, training and scheduling animal care, education and LSS team members.
Managing and controlling expenses and labor usage while evaluating and leveraging opportunities to drive revenue, reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Strategic planning, goal setting and their successful implementation and outcomes
Actively helping in day-to-day operations, events, training, and other hands-on tasks.
Working closely with the maintenance team to enable efficient and timely equipment and facilities repairs and ensuring preventative maintenance schedules are routinely updated.

Partnering with the property-wide management team to ensure open lines of communication between the aquarium and theme park.

Team member benefits:

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in zoological or biological sciences (or a related field) or a combination of education and experience. The depth and breadth of applicable experience will be evaluated.
At least five (5) years of experience in a leadership/management role.
An understanding of water quality, maintenance, and filtration, including familiarity with various fresh and saltwater life support systems and water testing procedures/equipment.
An understanding of fish and invertebrate health, disease identification, treatment, and related quarantine protocols.
Ability to identify and articulate issues with life support and water quality systems and perform or coordinate adjustments and repairs as needed.
Possessing an excellent understanding of proper water desalination, gating, and separation techniques.
The ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and persuasively with diverse personnel and guests.
Physical demands include the ability to walk and stand for long periods and the ability to perform physical inspections of the facility and all exhibits. This may include frequent bending, stooping, accessing tight spaces and lift up to 50 pounds.
First Aid, AED, and Oxygen certification preferred.

Additional Information

Full-time, year-round salary, bonus-eligible position.
Medical, Dental, Vision and other benefits start on the 1st of the month after the start date.
401(k) available with company match after one (1) year of employment.
Employee discounts on food and merchandise and complimentary tickets and season passes.

Delaware Land Steward

The Delaware Land Steward plans and implements land management activities on TNC lands in Delaware. They will work with the Delaware Stewardship Manager to plan habitat, trail, and infrastructure improvements on TNC Preserves. They will then assist with or lead the implementation of those improvements. Implementation will include the operation of heavy machinery (tractors, mowers, pick-up trucks, trailers), prescribed fire equipment (drip torches, UTVs, engines), chainsaws, and herbicide sprayers. The Delaware Land Steward will be part of TNC’s prescribed fire team that operates in Delaware and the eastern shore of Maryland. The Land Steward will also be responsible for the maintenance of tools and equipment.

The Land Steward will be responsible for TNC’s annual preserve & easement legal monitoring in Delaware, which involves communications with landowners and partners, property surveys, GIS data collection in Field Maps, reviewing and upholding conservation restrictions (easements), submitting reports, and addressing legal/management issues in a timely manner.

The Delaware Land Steward will frequently need to prioritize tasks, make day-to-day decisions, and work independently to complete the agreed-upon land management projects and legal monitoring. Financial responsibility may include developing project budgets, contracting vendors, and purchasing supplies. The role will also include occasional outreach and coordination with local media outlets and leading volunteers or small field crews with project implementation.
WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

TNC’s Pennsylvania/Delaware Chapter comprises fifty employees who are committed to teamwork; cross-collaboration; professional development; a fun and inclusive office culture; and diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice learning and practices. Although you’ll see requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. This is an exceptional career opportunity for a highly motivated, capable individual interested in joining the world’s leading conservation organization. Passion, innovation, and diversity are key components to advancing our Mission, and we encourage you to apply!
WHAT YOU’LL BRING

BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science-related field and 1-year related experience in custodial and ecological land management or similar field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience with natural systems, preferably coastal plain ecosystems
Experience in ecological land management principles.
Qualified or have equivalent experience as a NWCG Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2. https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/firefighter-type-2-crewmember/qualification-requirements
Experience operating and or repairing various types of equipment and machinery.
Experience with GIS.
Experience completing tasks independently with respect to timelines.
Experience working with common software applications (e.g.: Word, Excel, Web browsers).

Director of Parks

The beauty of the City of New Haven is personified in its parks for residents to enjoy nature. At the Department of Parks, our mission is to enhance the quality of life for New Haven residents by creating an atmosphere of community through people, parks, and programs. We are proudly responsible for the stewardship of the Elm City’s over 2,200 acres of parks, and the tree belt.

This is a senior management level position requiring management, administrative and technical skills necessary to direct the daily execution of a variety of activities involving Parks Department personnel. The position is appointed by the Mayor and reports to the Chief Administrative Officer.

Work involves the planning and directing work tasks associated with day-to-day maintenance of parks, parkways, forestry, park and recreational facilities. Work also involves responsibility for efficient management of spaces including fields for league play; an innovative Park Ranger program; and assistance to numerous citizen organizations providing recreation through the use of city facilities.

Within the general policies of the City and the general instructions of the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer the position exercises considerable judgement and initiative in budgeting and administering funding, coordinating work tasks, supervising personnel, handling correspondence, overseeing departmental finances, dealing with personnel issues, and communicating with elected officials and members of the public.

DUTIES:

Plans and organizes the work of park development including oversight of maintenance operations of existing sites and the execution of new projects; plans and supervises long term development of a wide variety of facilities; directs tree, horticulture, and other operations.
Supervises the planning, scheduling, implementation, and evaluation of departmental resources and setting of priorities; leads subordinate managers in long-range planning and problem-solving responsibilities.
Implements improvements for parks facilities, horticulture, trees, and other infrastructure needs consistent with the responsibilities of the Department to insure safe use by the public.
Directs staff and other resources in implementing maintenance procedures for the care and safe use of parks, fields, playgrounds, trees, public spaces, and Department fleet equipment.
Directs all administrative efforts associated with annual budgets (operating and capital), ongoing financial management and accountability, procurement of outside federal and state resources and financial reporting.
Coordinates with other Departments where necessary to undertake improvements to the City’s public infrastructure.
Manages communications with the Board of Alders, the media, and other public interests with regard to Parks matters.
Manages all Parks personnel issues involving work assignments, union disputes, and working conditions consistent with Civil Service requirements, approved Union agreements, OSHA requirements and City workplace policies.
Attends meetings involving Parks matters as directed by the Mayor or the Chief Administrative Officer.
Coordinates activities with City departments, private recreational, civic, social, and cultural organizations to ensure a customer focused and friendly department.
Instructs subordinates on policy matters and in the methods and procedures to be followed in carrying out various activities; confers with the departmental staff and instructs them in their work; identifies training needs and evaluates performance.
Directs, implements, and manages all snow removal operations from related facilities.
Provides emergency assistance in warranted situations as required to ensure the safety of the public.
Develops policies to ensure stewardship and access to parks and to encourage active and passive recreation throughout the system.
Performs related work as required.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in Parks Administration, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Forestry, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, or a related field. A master’s degree in these or related fields is preferred. Five to seven years of progressively responsible related financial and operational management experience preferably in public sector/government; including 3 to 5 years supervisory experience. In lieu of college degree, an additional four years of experience in Parks and Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Forestry, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, or related fields may be substituted.

Range Ecologist

Audubon Texas is a leader and integral member of a community of conservation practice, founded in a 100-year legacy of coastal stewardship while establishing innovative programs to protect, conserve, and enhance habitat for a wide variety of bird species throughout the Lone Star State and beyond. The Range Ecologist will be primarily focused on conservation delivery in South Texas, with some work in other parts of the state and Mexico as opportunities and capacity permit.

The Range Ecologist will work closely with local landowners to implement working lands conservation programs, including the Audubon Conservation Ranching (ACR) Program and a variety of voluntary Rangeland and grassland conservation tools. The Range Ecologist will work in partnership within a community of practice including migratory bird joint ventures, conservation organizations, and agencies to deliver robust private landowner programming. Audubon’s working lands programs in Texas aim to improve private landowners’ ability to practice bird-friendly land management. The Range Ecologist will be responsible for engaging, cultivating, and enrolling landowners into these programs and assisting them with implementation of innovative land management practices.

Through the development of habitat management plans (HMPs), an integral ACR conservation tool, the Range Ecologist will partner with landowners to determine land management goals and ensure program compliance. These HMPs support practices such as adaptive grazing, prescribed fire, grass and rangeland restoration, invasive species removal, and establishing rotational grazing infrastructure. HMPs rely on the designation of priority grassland bird species for each ranch or project site. The Range Ecologist will also conduct vegetation diversity and use monitoring to ensure landowners are compliant with program goals and are enhancing their grasslands to benefit grassland birds.

This position is on-site at Remote to Audubon, South Texas.

Compensation:

$48,000 – $53,000 / year

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

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

Facilitate demand for Audubon conservation programs through partnerships with local agencies and organizations.

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

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

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

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

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

Facilitate enrollment process and assist Audubon project budget tracking.

Apply a new, decision-support tool to the Matagorda Bay watershed to help ranchers and partners identify conservation priorities.

Advocate for science-supported habitat management on partner lands.

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

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

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

Support grant writing related to Audubon Conservation work.

Participate in local events targeted at youth, professionals, or the general community to share expertise.

Maintain excellent communication with supervisor and administrative staff.

Participate in partner meetings and conferences.

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

Attend training events held by local partners, such as NRCS, USFWS, State DNR, Migratory Bird Joint Ventures, Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society, and others.

Serve as a resource for local producers and partners.

Plan and participate in landowner workshops and other educational events.

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

Qualifications and Experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Experience with grassland/ vegetation plant identification and management knowledge.

Experience with avian identification and management knowledge.

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

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

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

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

Must be able to work autonomously and within a team.

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

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

Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. with or without accommodation.

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

Familiarity with grassland bird ranges and their habitat associations is a must.

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

Executive Director

The Executive Director is the key management leader of the Observatory and will drive strategic planning, fundraising, and stakeholder relationships to achieve the Observatory’s mission and goals. This position is responsible for overseeing the administration and organizational finances of the organization and staff supervision. Other key duties include program management and development, fundraising, grant writing, marketing, and community outreach. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors.

Primary Responsibilities

Responsible for the direction of the Observatory’s operations and programs. Ensures success of the Observatory’s pillar projects and future initiatives.
Responsible for planning and developing programs to support the Observatory’s pillar projects and partnerships.
Responsible for ensuring that services and funding relationships meet or exceed strategic goals and budget objectives with support from the Board.
Ensure all tasks relating to grant compliance are completed promptly. Works with staff to complete programmatic responsibilities, including contributing to programming as needed.
Evaluate existing and potential new initiatives, activities and partnerships to ensure they meet the goals and mission of the Observatory with particular attention to consistency with best available science.
Provides budget information and reports to the Board using standard accounting practices. Responsible for all staff management tasks.

Required Qualifications

Minimum of an advanced degree, preferably in ecology or wildlife biology (or similar focus) with a preference for demonstrated ornithological background or experience.
Demonstrated managerial leadership in an environmentally focused organization.
Must have demonstrated the ability to develop and guide the implementation of mission-centric research projects.
Dynamic team player with demonstrated experience working directly with prospective donors.
Proven strong financial skills including developing and managing budgets, generating new revenue streams, fundraising, grant-writing, management and reporting for a non-profit organization.
Proven organizational abilities, including planning, delegating responsibilities, program and staff development and task facilitation.
Demonstrated written and oral communication skills and the ability to adapt messages to diverse audiences, along with a commitment to contacting and working with underserved communities.
Strong work ethic with a high degree of energy to accomplish the various tasks and outreach necessary for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

Three or more years of leadership experience with a scientific organization.
Demonstrated ability to use best available science to inform decision-making and/or program development.
Experience and skill in working with a Board of Directors, committees and organizational leadership.

This position is located in Port Washington, Wisconsin, where the office is located. A portion of work may be hybrid work from home as approved by the Board. This position will require evening and weekend work as needed. The job requires the ability to walk three miles over uneven terrain and travel throughout Wisconsin and surrounding region as needed, a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.

Compensation

This position is a full-time exempt position and will require 40+ hours/week.

Salary range $68,500 – $72,000 annually.

Vacation 20 paid days off, 10 paid holidays.

To apply please send a resume and cover letter that describes your skills and experience to meet these job qualifications to ap**********@**bo.org. Applications will be accepted until a qualified applicant is found.

The Lake Michigan Bird Observatory is an Equal Opportunity Organization and will not allow discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, veteran status, socioeconomic background, or any other status prohibited by applicable law.

Conservation Initiatives Manager

The Open Space Institute (OSI) is a national leader in land protection and creating connections to nature and the outdoors for all people. Over the past five decades, OSI has protected more than 2.4 million at-risk, irreplaceable acres of forests, wetlands, and shorelines across the North American Eastern Seaboard. Expanding in both scope and size, OSI employs entrepreneurial spirit, determination, and expertise to protect the land that matters most – to preserve clean drinking water; improve the public’s access to parks, public trails, and greenways; save at-risk wildlife habitat; strengthen communities; and to combat climate change and mitigate its effects. OSI has an operating budget of $45 million, of which $32 million is derived through philanthropy, and is engaged in several multi-year campaigns and initiatives to support its mission.

Position Overview

The SE Conservation Initiatives Manager will lead OSI’s Southeast office across three interconnected program areas:

1. Oversee, coordinate, and advance strategic regional land conservation, which includes managing public conservation funding initiatives and developing large-scale conservation plans.

2. Initiate and support individual land acquisition and protection projects.

3. Drive outreach efforts among all conservation stakeholders, including landowners, existing and potential supporters, foundation, and corporate partners.

The work of the Conservation Initiatives Manager will be overseen by OSI’s Senior Vice President of Land Southeast.

Job Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate all phases of regional and local land protection initiatives including outreach strategies, landowner contact, project evaluation, strategic land protection planning. stakeholder engagement, communications and consultant coordination.
Build and maintain relationships with partner agencies, organizations, local leaders and communities, landowners and supporters, foundation and corporate partners;
Assist with community education and outreach pertaining to OSI’s wholistic conservation approach;
Serve as OSI’s representative on task force groups, steering and planning committees and regional planning initiatives;
Serve as the liaison, facilitator and coordinator between landowners and OSI to advance land protection projects;
Coordinate with OSI’s Land, Parks, External Affairs, Communications, and Development staff in all aspects of the work;
Assist OSI External Affairs staff with donor identification and solicitation including communications materials:
Identify and approach possible funding partners;
Coordinate research, priorities, and communication strategies;
Develop relationships with key decision makers and stakeholders;
Present proposals to new and established funding partners and stakeholders;
Create, organize and attend opportunities/events to advance OSI’s profile in the southeast.

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.

Please note: If you do not wholly meet the above qualifications but believe you are otherwise well-suited to meet the needs of this position, we encourage you to apply.

Required Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Conservation, Natural Resources Management, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in land conservation, environmental planning, or a related field.
Proven track record in managing land acquisition and protection projects
Deep understanding of land conservation techniques and strategies.
Familiarity with public conservation funding sources and processes.
Knowledge of regional conservation issues and priorities in the Southeast United States.
Proficiency in using geographic information systems (GIS) for land conservation planning.
Competence in using project management software and tools.
Ability to travel as needed for site visits, meetings, and outreach activities. OSI’s regional office is located in Charleson, SC.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Commitment to OSI’s mission and values in land protection and conservation.

Location & Physical Requirements

The position is required to be in close proximity to coastal South Carolina.
Some evening and weekend hours may be required occasionally for events
Frequently sits for long periods of time
Frequently speaks, reads, writes and uses a computer keyboard

May require occasional standing, walking, lifting, stooping, and bending
Driving is required

Horticulture Specialist

Job Summary: Under the supervision of the Horticultural Foreman, the Horticulture Specialist will serve as a primary resource for the planting and maintenance of landscape and forestry operations to provide safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing amenities.

General Hours: This position requires a minimum of 40-hour per week. Typical workdays will be Monday through Friday 7am to 3:30pm. However, a combination of daytime, evening and weekend hours may be required when the need exists.

Essential Functions:

· Assist with the daily horticultural maintenance operations for the district.

· Provide maintenance care for landscapes in all parks and/or facilities including but not limited to tiling, planting, watering, fertilizing, weeding, mulching, irrigation, and pest management.

· Assist Buildings and Grounds departments with snow removal.

· Collaborate with other maintenance staff to achieve departmental goals.

· Assures that tools and equipment are properly maintained and kept in proper working order.

· Attend pertinent departmental/park district meetings and in-house training sessions.

· Participate as a team member to assist and improve the overall services to the community.

· Maintain a neat and orderly work environment.

· Participate in professional committees, conferences, workshops, and classes to improve knowledge of job responsibilities and skills with supervisor approval.

· Adhere to all organizational policies and procedures as designated by the district.

· Performs other work-related duties and functions as assigned.

Education, Experience and Training:

· Preferred college level coursework in botany, horticulture, plant taxonomy, or environmental science.

· Familiarity with horticultural practices, landscaping, and or previous work in a similar setting.

· Must possess a valid Illinois Commercial-not-for-hire pesticide license or the ability to obtain one within six months of employment.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills Required:

· Must possess a strong knowledge and understanding of how to care for and maintain native and natural areas, forestry, and horticultural management.

· Ability to work unsupervised.

· Aptitude to use a computer for e-mail and accessing the internet.

· Ability to apply good judgement and practical knowledge to resolve unusual or irregular problems in work assigned.

· Ability to communicate effectively within various settings, from one-on-one to group configurations.

· Proficiency to read and write in English and organize effectively.

· Ability to work in a team atmosphere, promoting positive work relations with both internal and external customers.

· Capacity to maintain self-control and composure in difficult situations.

· Assist with supervision of seasonal staff.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

· The 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.

· General work area is outdoors, in several environmental extremes, typical with working in the Midwest climate.

· Sitting, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling and repetitive motion.

· Have a normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare and communicate appropriately in person and in writing.

· Specific vision requirements: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus.

· Frequently lift/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift/or move, with assistance more than 80 pounds. Must be able to perform physical duties with little or no assistance.

· Have full range of body motion, including handling and lifting items and packages.

· Exposure to chemicals such as cleaning solutions, solvents, petroleum products, etc.