Conservation Assistant

The Virginia Outdoors Foundation is seeking a full-time Conservation Assistant to assist with regional conservation duties. The position will be based out of our Warrenton office; however, travel throughout the entire Piedmont region will be required. Approximately 50% travel will be necessary for regional job duties, training, and staff meetings. Occasional telework is available; however, candidate must reside within VOF’s northern Virginia region and be able to commute to the Warrenton office at least three times a week. A VOF vehicle will be provided for regional travel. 

Starting salary is $46,000 with benefits including health, vision, dental, 401k, STD/LTD, FSA, life insurance, and a generous PTO plan. A $2,500 hiring bonus will be available to the selected candidate if they reside in the areas of Fauquier, Loudoun, Prince William, Fairfax, Arlington, or Alexandria. EEO/AA. The position is open until filled. 

• Work 40 hours per week.
• Work regionally with frequent travel required throughout the service area.
• Assist with assigned duties including, but not limited to, open-space easement monitoring, interpretations and reviews, landowner education, digital file organization.
• Travel across the Piedmont stewardship region to conduct site visits.
• Visit easement properties to document any physical changes using GPS, digital photography, iPhone applications, and GIS.
• Create maps and manipulate data using GIS.
• Contact and maintain good relationships with easement property owners and their representatives.
• Maintain accurate documentation in digital files on cloud storage site and custom database.
• Research courthouse deeds and county land use and development records.
• Assist with GIS editing and map creation.
• Assist other staff with documentation, mapping and filing.
• Assist easement owners with land management issues.
• Other general office duties and support.
• Participate in training activities, as required.
• Participate in staff meetings, as required.

Requirements

• Degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Civil, Agricultural, or Environmental Engineering, or related field, from an accredited college or university preferred/desirable, or experience that would provide the skills and abilities listed.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work with minimum supervision.
• Ability to work alone and visit properties in remote and rural areas by yourself.
• Demonstrated experience with ArcGIS Online, GPS, and similar applications.
• Demonstrated experience in using aerial imagery, topographic maps, iPhone applications, compass, and GPS.
• Demonstrated computer skills using Microsoft Office, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation applications.
• Ability to effectively interpret boundary surveys, property descriptions, and other related materials.
• Ability to interpret official land records.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Detail-oriented.