Conservation Program Manager

The Conservation Program Manager at the University of Utah's Red Butte Garden oversees daily operations of the conservation program, focusing on plant conservation and ecological restoration. Responsibilities include maintaining a seed bank, collaborating with partners, managing projects, and supervising staff. A bachelor's degree and 4-6 years of management experience are required. The position is located in Salt Lake City, UT, and is not remote.
About the position

The Conservation Program Manager at the University of Utah's Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the conservation program, which focuses on plant conservation and ecological restoration. This role involves maintaining a long-term seed bank of rare and endangered species, collaborating with various conservation partners, and managing projects that contribute to the preservation of Utah's native plants. The manager will work closely with the Director of Conservation and Research to plan, budget, and report on conservation initiatives.

Responsibilities
• Oversees day-to-day operations of the conservation program.
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• Maintains working relationships with Conservation Partners, including federal and state agencies and non-profit organizations.
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• Identifies conservation priorities and projects in collaboration with the Director and Partners.
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• Identifies funding opportunities and prepares and submits proposals with the Director.
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• Administers and implements individual projects, including personnel management, purchasing, travel logistics, and report preparation.
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• Oversees full-time and part-time conservation staff, interns, and volunteers.
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• Coordinates with horticultural, programs, and marketing/communications staff to achieve common goals.
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• Maintains the Garden's conservation seed collections and manages trials, testing, or propagation of rare and endangered native plants.
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• Collaborates with researchers, staff, and partners to conduct research studies in the field and at the garden.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in a related area or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience).
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• Four to six years of progressively more responsible management experience.
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• Background knowledge of the area of specialization to analyze, plan, and draw conclusions for recommendations.
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• Demonstrated leadership skills in planning and directing employees and processes.
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• Completion of provided supervisory training within one year of employment may be required.

Nice-to-haves
• Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, conservation science, or other related field plus 5 years of experience in plant conservation, including supervisory experience.
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• Master's degree in a related field plus 3 years of experience, including supervisory experience.
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• Familiarity with Utah's native plants, geography, and ecosystems.
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• Familiarity with seed banking practices and standards for rare species.
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• Experience with field methods for plant conservation, including restoration and population assessments.
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• Physical ability and willingness to undertake field work under challenging conditions.
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• Experience and ability in grant writing and reporting.
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• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
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• Strong capability in collecting, analyzing, and reporting scientific data.

Benefits