Conservation Outreach Specialist

Position Summary

The Conservation Outreach Specialist supports and advances Wild Rivers Conservancy’s watershed stewardship, land protection, forestry, and climate resiliency initiatives through outreach, education, partnership development, and project coordination. This position plays a key role in connecting landowners, communities, volunteers, and partners to stewardship opportunities that protect and enhance the ecological integrity of the St. Croix River watershed.

The Conservation Outreach Specialist is an integral member of the Conservancy’s natural resources team and supports the organization’s strategic priorities focused on protecting and enhancing the natural resources and ecosystems of the St. Croix watershed. Working under the direction of the Natural Resources Manager, this position will lead outreach and engagement efforts that promote conservation stewardship, climate resilience, and habitat protection throughout the watershed.  

Core Responsibilities

• Lead outreach and engagement efforts that support watershed stewardship, habitat restoration, forestry, and climate resiliency initiatives.
• Manage grants and coordinate implementation of the St. Croix Watershed Habitat Restoration & Protection Program.
• Develop and implement landowner outreach campaigns that promote conservation stewardship and best management practices.
• Provide stewardship guidance and technical assistance to landowners, volunteers, and community members.
• Create outreach materials including newsletters, presentations, social media content, and educational resources.
• Develop GIS maps and spatial data products using ArcGIS Pro to support conservation projects and planning efforts.
• Coordinate volunteer stewardship activities including tree plantings, seed collection, and citizen science programs.
• Build and maintain partnerships with agencies, nonprofits, communities, and watershed stakeholders.
• Represent Wild Rivers Conservancy at public events, meetings, workshops, and educational programs.
• Support project monitoring, data collection, reporting, and evaluation activities.
• Supervise interns and volunteers as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, environmental studies, forestry, conservation, communications, or 1-3 years experience in related field preferred.
• Experience with conservation outreach, public engagement, or environmental education.
• Knowledge of watershed management, forestry practices, and climate resiliency strategies in the Upper Midwest.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, ArcGIS Pro, GPS technology, and graphic design platforms such as Canva or Adobe Illustrator.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience coordinating events, facilitating meetings, and working with diverse partners and audiences.
• Familiarity with grant administration, project tracking, and reporting preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.