Forest Programs Coordinator

Maine TREE seeks a dynamic professional to serve as Forest Programs Coordinator to guide forest-based outreach programs and support research and education initiatives.

Maine TREE is an independent, private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to educate and advocate for the sustainable use of the forest and the ecological, economic, and social health of Maine’s forest community. They host forest-based programs focusing on education, research, and community. Applicants should be deeply rooted in Maine’s forests, have education and experience in forestry, conservation, or a related-field, bring strong organizational and communication skills to the team, and demonstrate commitment to building a diverse team to achieve our mission.

The Forest Programs Coordinator will organize outreach programs for family forest owners, foresters, and other audiences and serve as the Maine Tree Farm Program coordinator. Additionally, the Coordinator will support the work of forest-related committees and initiatives, including Keeping Maine’s Forests, Maine Division of Society of American Foresters, and the Forest Climate Change Initiative Science & Practice series. Whenever possible, the Coordinator will collaborate with Maine TREE staff to foster connections between research, education, and outreach programs.

Position Description:

The Forest Programs Manager should possess excellent organizational, communication, and written skills, be comfortable working independently and in remote outdoor locations, and have a strong passion for advancing sustainable forestry in Maine. Previous experience in forestry, conservation, or a related-field, combined with outreach, communication, and project management skills, is highly desirable. This position reports to the Executive Director.

Daily activities will vary, including travel to sites throughout Maine (up to 10 days per month) for meetings, outreach events, and workshops, with occasional overnights. Maine TREE offers a hybrid work environment, with office locations in Augusta, Arrowsic, and Portland, ME. The Coordinator is expected to travel to one of the offices at least one day per week for staff meetings. Office work will involve planning and implementing projects, as well as creating and writing program-related content.

The Coordinator will:

• Coordinate the Maine Tree Farm program, including providing support to the Maine Tree Farm Committee, Tree Farmers, and inspecting foresters, and organizing events and outreach initiatives.
• Develop, facilitate, or support the implementation of education and outreach activities and workshops for various audiences, including foresters, landowners, loggers, and others.
• Develop and maintain relationships with project partners across Maine’s forest community.
• Represent Maine TREE and its programs at professional conferences or events, including public speaking engagements such as presentations and panel discussions.
• Convene and support various subcommittees as assigned.
• Develop and implement work plans and ensure timely submission of reports.
• Perform administrative tasks, including tracking project budgets, matching funds, and deliverables, writing program agreements and contracts, and preparing and submitting reports.
• Support fundraising activities for assigned programs, including grant writing and direct appeals.
• Assist in programming and outreach aspects of programs as assigned, including but not limited to the Forests of Maine Teachers’ Tours, Forest Ecology Research Network, Maine Project Learning Tree, Holt Research Forest, and Certified Logging Professionals.

Qualifications:

• Education: BA or BS in a related field (forestry, ecology, natural resource management, etc.) or 4 years of experience in a related field.
• A broad understanding of Maine’s forest ecology, economy, and forest-based communities.
• Ability to work outdoors in variable conditions and a willingness to work some evenings and weekends.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and the ability to travel, primarily within Maine.
• Ability to work both independently and with a team.

Skills:

• Communication skills with proficiency in writing, speaking, and listening to diverse audiences.
• Strategic leadership skills, ability to lead toward a shared vision, and flexibility and adaptability.
• Project management skills.
• Strong computer skills.
• Fundraising, grant writing, and grant management.
• Ability to manage a network of volunteers and partners.

This position is flexible, and activities will adjust with the seasons, priorities, interest, and need. The position is grant funded for 12-months with continuation dependent on available funding. The position is based out of Maine TREE’s offices at 535 Civic Center Drive in Augusta, Maine, and 508 Old Stage Road in Arrowsic, Maine, with flexibility for hybrid work environments, as approved. The salary range for the position is $50,000 – $52,000 annually, with a competitive benefits package.