Sustainable Ranching Initiative Associate Specialist, Montana - 25017

The Sustainable Ranching Initiative Associate Specialist at WWF in Bozeman, MT, is responsible for coordinating conservation projects to restore grasslands and streams. This role involves collaboration with ranchers and partners, outreach, project implementation, and fundraising support. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and relevant experience in natural resources or ecology. The position is full-time and offers a competitive salary with potential for professional growth.
About the position

The Sustainable Ranching Initiative Associate Specialist at WWF is responsible for providing technical expertise to develop and coordinate private-land conservation projects aimed at restoring grasslands and streams in Montana. This role involves collaboration with ranchers and various partners to implement conservation efforts, support fundraising initiatives, and communicate project results to stakeholders. The position is based in Bozeman, Montana, and is a two-year limited term role with potential for extension.

Responsibilities
• Coordinate projects on private grazing lands designed to restore grasslands and streams within the Great Plains.
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• Conduct outreach with landowners in central and eastern Montana to inform them of WWF programs and project opportunities.
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• Support the SRI team and collaboratives with conservation and restoration project implementation.
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• Build and maintain relationships with local and regional ranching partner organizations and government agencies.
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• Coordinate with individual ranches on the implementation, monitoring, and reporting for projects intended to restore grasslands and streams.
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• Support the SRI team with strategic planning, partner engagement, program communication, and public education.
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• Communicate results to local and regional audiences through public speaking and published writings.
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• Assist in fundraising, including providing content for proposals and reporting on progress.
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• Provide technical assistance and support in fundraising and project evaluation efforts.

Requirements
• A Bachelor's degree with 2+ years of experience in a relevant field such as natural resources management, ecology, organismal biology, or environmental science.
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• Demonstrated experience working with ranchers.
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• Experience with conservation project management, specifically in stream and grassland systems in the Northern Great Plains.
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• Experience working on grazing lands within Northern Great Plains, specifically Montana.
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• Excellent writing skills, as demonstrated through samples.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with conservation education and outreach, such as volunteer events or field days.
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• Excellent communication skills, both one-on-one and in a group setting.
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• Experience presenting ecological conservation topics to diverse audiences.

Benefits
• Competitive salary range of $52,500 to $65,700.
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• Opportunity for professional development and growth within a leading conservation organization.