Conservation Project Manager Job Description The Western New York Land Conservancy is an accredited, regional not-for-profit land trust that permanently protects land with significant conservation values in Western New York for the benefit of future generations. We envision a future in which open spaces, wildlife habitat, working lands and scenic beauty are cherished and protected as part of the landscape and character of Western New York. The Western New York region is home to some of North America’s most important natural treasures. Our region encompasses two Great Lakes (Lake Erie and Lake Ontario), Niagara Falls, and the Niagara Gorge. The region includes the Appalachian foothills in the south, vast networks of meandering rivers and streams, and impressive stretches of forests. Our farm soils are some of the most fertile and productive in the world. All of this natural wealth surrounds cities and villages that are becoming more vibrant each year. The Land Conservancy’s programs gives our staff opportunities to work in all of these places, and more. For more information about our work, please visit: www.wnylc.org
Overview: The Conservation Project Manager's primary responsibility will be to serve as project manager for the Restore the Gorge and Stella Niagara Preserve enhancement projects. This position may also assist or lead other land management projects on Land Conservancy properties. This position will help achieve the conservation goals in the Land Conservancy’s f The Stella Niagara Preserve is the most ambitious land acquisition project in the Land Conservancy’s history. The preserve is located on the Niagara River in the Town of Lewiston just north of Niagara Falls. With 29 acres and over a quarter-mile of shoreline, it is the largest privately-owned, undeveloped tract of land along the entire length of the Niagara River. We purchased the property in 2015, and hired visionary landscape designers Darrel Morrison and Nancy Aten to create a plan for its restoration. We will continue to implement that plan, which includes habitat restoration and public access improvements, through 2019. Responsibilities Project management of Restore the Gorge: Oversee all aspects of the Restore the Gorge project including project planning, permitting and environmental review, contractor management, developing RFPs and selecting contractors, community engagement and outreach, grant writing and reporting, and project team coordination. The Project Manager will also oversee the work of a Land Conservancy ecologist who is assisting with native seed collection and propagation, in addition to the oversight of other contractors as needed. The Land Conservancy will soon be hiring a Finance and Operations Director to assist with or lead contracting, financial management, and grant reporting for this project. The current project team includes: Applied Ecological Services; New York Power Authority; New York State Parks; our landscape design team with Nancy Aten and Darrel Morrison; and other project partners. Other contractors have already contributed to the project, and additional contractors may be added as the project progresses. Project management of the Stella Niagara Preserve enhancements: Oversee all aspects of the restoration work at the Stella Niagara Preserve including project planning, contractor selection and management, and volunteer coordination. The Conservation Project Manager will also supervise at least two part-time preserve stewards and other staff or contractors as needed. Applied Ecological Services is our consultant implementing the restoration plan for he preserve. Expansion of Land Conservancy Stewardship and Restoration: Assist with or lead land management activities on land protected by the Land Conservancy and other places in the region. Land management activities may include, but are not limited to, habitat restoration, preserve management, and public access improvements. Organizational meetings and activities: Participate in Conservation Committee meetings and Board meetings as appropriate. Participate in regular staff and planning meetings. Assist with other Land Conservancy activities including nature hikes, events, photography, community presentations, fundraising, and grant writing. The successful candidate is expected to work closely with other Land Conservancy staff to ensure that protection directives are accomplished in an efficient manner. Qualifications: A deep passion for conservation and the Land Conservancy’s mission. Ability to manage complex projects and coordinate with multiple partners. Strong interpersonal skills, diplomacy, patience, and a sense of humor. Superb written and oral communication skills. A strong work ethic and willingness to work flexible hours. Ability to work independently with a high level of accountability and attention to detail. Ability to inspire and work with staff, Board of Directors, community partners, members, and volunteers. Professional experience in ecology, restoration, and conservation is required. Demonstrated project management experience including supervision of contractors, coordination of regulatory agency permits and approvals, and budget oversight. Experience with invasive plant species control is required. Experience with native plants in the Western New York region is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field is required, an advanced degree is preferred. An appreciation for and respect of confidentiality. A willingness to use a personal vehicle for work-related travel. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and GIS is required. To Apply Please email a cover letter, resume and contact information for three references to j...@wnylc.org with “Conservation Project Manager” in the subject line. Applications are only accepted electronically. No phone calls please. The position is available 6/1/2018 and is open until filled. The Western New York Land Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer.
