Conservation Coordinator

Association for Fire Ecology.; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 36,506 - 43,050; Full time

Job summary

The Association for Fire Ecology is seeking a Conservation Coordinator in Wilmington, NC to provide operational support for conservation initiatives. Responsibilities include project management, ensuring compliance with conservation easements, and supporting community outreach.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 2 years of relevant experience. Experience in field work, strong organizational skills, and a valid driver’s license are essential. The role combines administrative tasks with outdoor activities in variable conditions.

Qualifications

• 2 years related work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to pass US Forest Service work capacity test.
• Experience coordinating multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and operational support for conservation projects.
• Ensure compliance of conservation easements.
• Assist in conservation planning and implementation.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Organizational skills

Fieldwork

Data management

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, or related field

Tools

ArcGIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Location: The Nature Conservancy - Wilmington, NC

Pay: $26.50-$31.25/hour

The Conservation Coordinator works in a program office and provides administrative and operational support, project management, event planning, and other general assistance to program staff working toward the achievement of protection, conservation, and stewardship goals.

The Conservation Coordinator supports land stewardship and conservation activities through a combination of field work and administrative support. Responsibilities include ensuring that conservation easements held by TNC are monitored and remain in compliance with applicable easement standards, supporting the prescribed fire program, interacting with the public and supporting community outreach, and assisting with conservation planning and implementation. The position involves collecting, compiling, and managing conservation data; preparing documentation and reports; supporting partner engagement; supporting daily field office administrative needs; and assisting with seasonal and operational needs. Work may occur in the field or in an office setting and often involves collaboration with staff, partners, and other stakeholders to support conservation objectives.

Responsibilities and Scope:

Supervises no staff but may oversee and direct work of volunteers, interns, and temporary staff.

Supports multiple conservation, stewardship, and fire‑related projects simultaneously, exercising sound judgment, organization, and attention to detail to meet timelines and program needs.

Contributes to conservation and stewardship programs by assisting with planning, reporting, and implementation. Activities include monitoring easements, planning and coordinating large events, and participating in prescribed fire operations.

Assists with tracking program activities, resources, and limited budget elements in support of ongoing conservation, grant reporting requirements, and fire operations.

Works under the guidance of a supervisor while exercising independence in day‑to‑day tasks and decisions within established policies, procedures, and conservation standards.

Regularly performs work in field and office settings, including travel to remote sites, variable weather conditions, rugged or hazardous terrain, and participation in physically demanding activities associated with prescribed fire and land stewardship.

Participates in local conservation partnerships.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, natural resources management or related field and 2 years related work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Ability to pass US Forest Service work capacity test at arduous level (3‑mile walk wearing a 45lb pack in under 45 minutes).

Experience coordinating and prioritizing multiple projects simultaneously.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and the public.

Strong organizational and administrative skills, including attention to detail, record‑keeping, and basic numerical aptitude.

Ability and willingness to work outdoors in extreme environments (heat, cold, bugs, etc.).

Experience recognizing and identifying plant and animal species.

Experience working in a team environment.

Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (ATV, First Aid, Bloodborne pathogen, CPR, and other applicable certifications).

Must have valid driver’s license.

Experience with Microsoft Office suite.

Desired Qualifications:

Proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities and shifting priorities, with work assignments originating from multiple programs or staff.

Experience compiling, organizing, and synthesizing information from a variety of sources to update databases, and complete reports, management plans, or project updates.

Experience supporting outreach, education, or engagement activities, including organizing events and assisting with public‑facing communications, such as tabling, leading tours, and formal presentations.

Familiarity with data entry and database management for tracking conservation, stewardship, and program activities; experience producing summary reports.

Experience using ArcGIS and other mapping software (Field Maps, Avenza, etc.).

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy‑owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.