Director of Conservation and Land Stewardship
(Full Time)
Friends of Rye Nature Center is currently looking for a dynamic, passionate, and experienced land manager and conservationist to join our leadership team. Reporting to the organization’s Executive Director, the Director of Conservation will oversee and provide day-to-day management for the Nature Center’s 47-acre preserve, building, and grounds. This individual will also strategically direct all aspects of land protection, eco-science, and community conservation relations for our organization. The Director of Conservation serves as the principal contact between FRNC and other conservation organizations, science foundations, and the academic community. In collaboration with the Director of Education, the Director of Conservation assists in the development of educational programs which aim to further the community’s understanding of conservation and land stewardship. The Director will teach various programs and classes for all ages and organize, train, and oversee FRNC’s conservation staff and volunteers.
The ideal candidate has a master’s degree in forestry, environmental science, ecology, and/or the equivalent; experience managing public green spaces and natural areas; demonstrated success designing and implementing forest restoration projects; and experience managing a team. The person in this position must be an excellent communicator who seeks to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards. This is a year-round, full-time position with medical, dental, and retirement benefits. Salary commensurate with experience. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply.
Primary Duties
Land Stewardship, Operations, and Grounds Management (65%)
Ensures the building and grounds of Rye Nature Center are safe and accessible for visitors and program participants.
Leads and manages permanent and seasonal conservation staff and volunteers on land stewardship and building/grounds maintenance.
Identifies and assesses environmental issues impacting the Rye Nature Center.
Uses innovative scientific methods, analyses, tools, and frameworks to address the natural eco-system and habitat needs of all 47-acres.
Defines, strategically plans, and implements conservation priorities for the organization.
Manages, develops, and implements all ecological restoration and conservation projects.
Works with the Board of Directors’ Grounds and Conservation Committee.
Develops and maintains key partnerships with public and private organizations to identify and resolve conservation issues and to widely communicate solutions and best practices.
Acquires proposals and participates in the selection and management of third-party contractors as needed.
Outreach, Education and Programs (25%)
Establishes the FRNC as a conservation partner with local civic groups in the Sound Shore area and throughout Westchester County. • Manages all citizen science programs at the Nature Center.
Organizes and leads various volunteer groups and annual internship program for local high school students.
Teaches indoor and outdoor conservation, forest ecology and garden classes on-site, at schools, and at other locations.
Set-ups and prepares conservation activities/projects and organizes program supplies and equipment, as necessary.
Lectures to civic groups and the community on a variety of nature and science topics.
Supports all FRNC’s programs, classes, special events, and camps as necessary.
Fundraising (10%)
Collaborates with the Executive Director on grants related to the grounds, facilities, and conservation projects.
Supports aspects of the FRNC’s fundraising activities including meeting donors/corporate sponsors, attending special events.
Oversees the preparation of the site for special events.
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, forestry, ecology required.
Minimum 5 to 10 years of successful professional experience working in a nature center, park, or similar setting.
Demonstrated ability to teach children and adults.
Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. • Proven ability to work with and supervise others.
Strong project and time management skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills with an attention to details.
High energy, physically fit with the ability to lift 50 pounds.
Commitment to conservation and the FRNC’s mission.
Valid driver’s license.
Strongly Desired
Master’s degree in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Forestry, Environmental Science or related area preferred.
Experience with public park or natural area management for recreation, including trail building and maintenance.
Experience planning and implementing ecological restoration projects such as forest and/or riparian restoration. We particularly value experience on projects in urban and suburban settings.
Basic carpentry knowledge and experience with small building and repair projects.
To Apply
Please send cover letter, resume/CV, and contacts for three references to Christine Siller, Executive Director, at christine@ryenaturecenter.org. No phone calls please. Priority will be given to applications received by April 8th, 2022. Interviews will begin immediately following.