Director of Conservation & Coastal Resilience

National Audubon Society; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

National Audubon Society seeks a Director of Conservation to lead statewide initiatives in South Carolina, translating Flight Plan goals into measurable outcomes for birds and habitats. You’ll oversee coastal resilience, community science, and cross-team collaboration to drive fundraising and strategic program delivery.

The role requires a decade in natural resources work with leadership experience, strong communication, and the ability to operate across political contexts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in conservation biology, wildlife management, forestry, natural resources, avian ecology, ornithology, or related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in natural resources management, biology, or related environmental or conservation work with at least 3 years of management experience.
• Understanding of conservation issues in South Carolina (climate adaptation, resiliency, coastal management, etc.).
• Proven fundraising and grants management experience with budgets and metrics.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences.
• Ability to manage strategies across varying geographic and political contexts and audiences.
• Proficiency with standard office productivity software; capable of document and data synthesis.
• Flexible schedule with ability to work nights/weekends as needed.
• Valid driver’s license and travel within the state.
• Commitment to Audubon’s values and fostering inclusive, collaborative work environments.

Responsibilities

• Set ambitious, measurable conservation vision aligned with Flight Plan goals for South Carolina.
• Lead strategies, priorities, and implementation plans; adapt to emerging threats.
• Build strategic relationships with NGOs, academia, corporations, communities, and agencies.
• Develop and manage conservation program budgets; align funding and staffing.
• Collaborate across teams to plan, develop, and implement projects protecting habitats and species.
• Oversee Coastal Resilience and Coastal Stewardship programs: site strategy, implementation, and funding.
• Direct research project design and data analysis to inform adaptive management.
• Oversee community science and research efforts; engage network and partners.
• Partner with Sanctuary staff to align statewide goals and share findings.
• Lead fundraising in partnership with VP/Executive Director and Grants teams.
• Coach and mentor staff; foster inclusive, collaborative team culture.
• Evaluate conservation outcomes and report progress to leadership and funders.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Strategic leadership

Collaboration

Policy & advocacy understanding

Education

Bachelor’s degree in conservation biology (required)

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Office productivity software

Job description

National Audubon Society seeks a Director of Conservation to lead statewide initiatives in South Carolina, translating Flight Plan goals into measurable outcomes for birds and habitats. You’ll oversee coastal resilience, community science, and cross-team collaboration to drive fundraising and strategic program delivery.

The role requires a decade in natural resources work with leadership experience, strong communication, and the ability to operate across political contexts.