About Audubon
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization
with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to
protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are
powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of
environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western
Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for
the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats,
borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting
conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon
is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for
both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org
[http://www.audubon.org/] and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
@audubonsociety.
Position Summary:
The Range Ecologist will work closely with local landowners to implement working
lands conservation programs delivered by Audubon and the Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission. These working lands programs aim to improve private landowners’
ability to implement bird-friendly land management actions. Range Ecologists are
responsible for enrolling landowners into these working lands programs and
assisting them in the implementation of innovative land management practices.
This position is grant funded. The current agreement covers two years, with
likelihood of extension. The Range Ecologist will work under the collaborative
direction of the Working Lands Program Manager and Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission.
This position is based out of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission office in
North Platte, Nebraska.
Compensation:
$57,100. / year
Additional Job Description
Essential Functions
* Serve as an on-the-ground Range Ecologist for Audubon Working Lands programs
to enhance grassland habitat for priority bird species. This will include:
* Provide excellent technical service to agricultural producers participating
in conservation programs.
* Facilitate demand for conservation implementation through partnerships with
local landowners, agencies, and organizations.
* Establish and maintain professional relationships with ranchers and
landowners.
* Communicate program goals and work with rancher/landowner to develop plans
for each project.
* Execute timely agreements and project plans for landowners participating in
financial assistance conservation programs.
* Support grant reporting related to Audubon and NGPC conservation work.
* Participate in local outreach events in the community to share expertise.
* Maintain excellent communication with supervisor and administrative staff.
* Engage in professional development activities in line with a yearly growth
and performance plan.
* Plan and participate in landowner workshops and other educational events.
Attend training events held by local partners, such as NRCS, USFWS, and state
grazing coalitions to build ecological understanding.
* Represent Audubon at events to promote and educate the public and partners on
Audubon’s working lands programs, partner programs, grassland bird
conservation, and rangeland management practices.
* Develop Habitat Management Plans for private lands enrolled in conservation
programs
* Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
* Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint
planning and execution of shared priorities.
* Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
Qualifications and Experience:
* Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in biology, range management, ecology,
natural resources management, wildlife management, or related field. An
equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
* At least three years’ experience with similar work in grasslands
* Experience working with local agencies and organizations to help ranchers
secure cost-share and incentive program funding to implement improved
rangeland management practices.
* Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability
to work effectively with producers and partners.
* Must be able to work occasional weekends or evenings. Some tasks will also
require early morning work.
* Working knowledge of ArcGIS, GPS, and other GIS technology.
* Experience with Northern Great Plains grassland plant identification and
management.
* Experience with Northern Great Plains avian management and identification by
sight and sound.
* Familiarity with common grassland management activities and grazing systems
in the Northern Great Plains.
* Must be able to do light lifting (up to 25 lbs.) and traverse uneven terrain
outdoors, with or without accommodation.
* Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change,
integrity, impact, and innovation.
* Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
* Must have valid Driver’s License. Employee will operate a Nebraska Game and
Parks Commission pickup truck for landowner meetings, project management, and
project delivery. Position requires occasional overnight or out-of-state
travel, and regular in-state travel.
This position is represented by the Communication Workers of America (CWA).
National Audubon Society Competencies: This role will also be accountable to
apply and develop the following competencies.
Fostering Relationships: Build trust, mutual respect, and understanding through
regular and genuine interactions while promoting a positive and inclusive
environment.
Analytical Thinking: Recognize and value diverse perspectives and experiences in
data analysis to foster a more comprehensive and equitable approach to
problem-solving.
Creativity and Innovation: Leverage creativity and imagination to generate new
insights and solutions while embracing diverse ideas and approaches that foster
innovation.
Facilitating Change: Work with others to explore innovative approaches to
problem-solving while promoting inclusivity, equity, accessibility, and
belonging in the change process.
Team Leadership: Communicate vision and engage others or the team to solve
problems while valuing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusivity.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any
other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are
committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all
candidates.
Accessibility Statement
The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to
any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility
of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please
contact Accommodations@audubon.org [Accommodations@audubon.org]. This contact
information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire
about the status of applications.