Range Ecologist

Audubon; Nebraska; On-site; USD 55,370 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Audubon is seeking a Range Ecologist based in North Platte, Nebraska, to work on conservation programs with local landowners. The role involves enhancing grassland habitats and implementing bird-friendly management practices.

This grant-funded position requires a strong background in biology or ecology, excellent communication skills, and experience working in grasslands. Audubon values care, collaboration, and innovation in its mission to protect the planet’s wildlife.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in biology, range management, ecology, or related field.
• At least three years’ experience with similar work in grasslands.
• Experience with local agencies for funding implementation.

Responsibilities

• Serve as on-the-ground Range Ecologist to enhance grassland habitat for birds.
• Communicate program goals with ranchers and develop project plans.
• Execute agreements for landowners participating in conservation.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

GIS technology

Grassland management

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or advanced degree in relevant field

Tools

ArcGIS

GPS technology

Job description

About Audubon

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.

Position Summary

The Range Ecologist will work closely with local landowners to implement working lands conservation programs delivered by Audubon and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. These working lands programs aim to improve private landowners’ ability to implement bird-friendly land management actions. Range Ecologists are responsible for enrolling landowners into these working lands programs and assisting them in the implementation of innovative land management practices.

This position is grant funded. The current agreement covers two years, with likelihood of extension. The Range Ecologist will work under the collaborative direction of the Working Lands Program Manager and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

This position is based out of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission office in North Platte, Nebraska.

Compensation

$55,370 - $62,000 / year

Essential Functions

• Serve as an on-the-ground Range Ecologist for Audubon Working Lands programs to enhance grassland habitat for priority bird species. This will include:
  • Provide excellent technical service to agricultural producers participating in conservation programs.
  • Facilitate demand for conservation implementation through partnerships with local landowners, agencies, and organizations.
  • Establish and maintain professional relationships with ranchers and landowners.
  • Communicate program goals and work with rancher/landowner to develop plans for each project.
  • Execute timely agreements and project plans for landowners participating in financial assistance conservation programs.
• Support grant reporting related to Audubon and NGPC conservation work.
• Participate in local outreach events in the community to share expertise.
• Maintain excellent communication with supervisor and administrative staff.
• Engage in professional development activities in line with a yearly growth and performance plan.
• Plan and participate in landowner workshops and other educational events. Attend training events held by local partners, such as NRCS, USFWS, and state grazing coalitions to build ecological understanding.
• Represent Audubon at events to promote and educate the public and partners on Audubon’s working lands programs, partner programs, grassland bird conservation, and rangeland management practices.
• Develop Habitat Management Plans for private lands enrolled in conservation programs.
• Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.
• Maintain and foster culture of safety.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in biology, range management, ecology, natural resources management, wildlife management, or related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• At least three years’ experience with similar work in grasslands.
• Experience working with local agencies and organizations to help ranchers secure cost‑share and incentive program funding to implement improved rangeland management practices.
• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to work effectively with producers and partners.
• Must be able to work occasional weekends or evenings. Some tasks will also require early morning work.
• Working knowledge of ArcGIS, GPS, and other GIS technology.
• Experience with Northern Great Plains grassland plant identification and management.
• Experience with Northern Great Plains avian management and identification by sight and sound.
• Familiarity with common grassland management activities and grazing systems in the Northern Great Plains.
• Must be able to do light lifting (up to 25 lbs.) and traverse uneven terrain outdoors, with or without accommodation.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
• Must have valid Driver’s License. Employee will operate a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission pickup truck for landowner meetings, project management, and project delivery. Position requires occasional overnight or out-of-state travel, and regular in-state travel.

National Audubon Society Competencies

Fostering Relationships

Build trust, mutual respect, and understanding through regular and genuine interactions while promoting a positive and inclusive environment.

Analytical Thinking

Recognize and value diverse perspectives and experiences in data analysis to foster a more comprehensive and equitable approach to problem‑solving.

Creativity and Innovation

Leverage creativity and imagination to generate new insights and solutions while embracing diverse ideas and approaches that foster innovation.

Facilitating Change

Work with others to explore innovative approaches to problem‑solving while promoting inclusivity, equity, accessibility, and belonging in the change process.

Team Leadership

Communicate vision and engage others or the team to solve problems while valuing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusivity.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

Accessibility Statement

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact [e-mail]. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.