Conservation Ranger

Position Summary: 

The Conservation Ranger will provide ground proof data and participate in determining strategies and protocols to assist in the implementation of the Bonanza Flat Conservation Area (BFAMS) and Forty Fifth Star Preserve Management and Stewardship Plans (SAMS). This job includes in-the-field conservation, utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to provide measurable land management progress and the creation of strong visual narratives about the progress of management plan goals and objectives. The Conservation Ranger will conduct various ecological land surveys, fulfill monitoring objectives and gather crucial data in the field, providing an overall understanding of the upward or downward trajectory of conservation values attendant to the land. The Conservation Ranger is involved in creating insightful maps and reports that help decision makers understand when management goals are achieved or when they need to be adapted and will participate in reviewing and revising the management plans as determined by the Executive Director and the Grantor of the conservation easements. The Conservation Ranger engages with the public and identifies how to mitigate potential threats to the conservation health of these landscapes. The Conservation Ranger may also provide analysis for other properties under Utah Open Lands stewardship as identified by the Executive Director.
Scope of Work/Responsibilities Conservation Management: 

• Track and collect data necessary to implement management plan goals and objectives in coordination with the Land Protection and Stewardship Teams. 

• Provide input and strategies for restoration and recreation management. 

• Identify ecological health barometers and suggest/implement protocols for effective measurement of trajectory health. 

• Implement action plan items identified within the BFAMS and SAMS plans as provided by the Land Protection and Stewardship Teams. 

• Communicate progress of BFAMS and SAMS implementation with the Conservation Easement Grantors through Monitoring Reports, Seasonal Reports, and other documents conveying the ecological health of the Property. 

Public Engagement 

• Communicate UOLs conservation goals to the public effectively and navigate conversations with individuals holding strong opinions with a nuanced approach. 

• Perform conservation field duties safely, adhering to regulations and procedures and best practices as a face of UOL. 

• Provide leadership to Interns, Conservation Ambassadors, and volunteers under the direction of the Executive Director and/or the Community Engagement Coordinator. 

• Perform and assist with various outreach-related assigned duties. Data Collection Reporting 

• Utilize ArcGIS Pro for mapping, dataset management, data collection and analysis, editing, georeferencing, and map creation. 

• Create Reports that track the conservation trajectory for various ecological elements from invasive species spread or management to observed wildlife migration/nesting/calving/habitat concerns and overall ecological health parameters (forest health, biomass, biodiversity).

Team Membership 

• Uphold our values, equity commitments, diversity goals, and commitments for strong relationships. 

• Continuously improve leadership skills and effectiveness. • Abide by and uphold all UOL policies and procedures, and any other industry best management practices. 

• Participate in staff meetings, events, committee/board meetings when necessary. 

• Strategic and operational decisions should advance the values, vision, and mission of Utah Open Lands. This will require you to embed the organization’s values throughout your work; modeling excellence, accountability, integrity, collaboration, and innovation, centering on a commitment to equity. As a part of the Utah Open Lands team, all members are expected to work collaboratively to achieve successful organizational outcomes by developing strategic priorities and ensuring decisions are based on both sound conservation science and strong relationships. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Sciences, Biology, Environmental Science, Forestry, or similar. 

• Possess GIS skills and a working knowledge of GPS units. 

• Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro. 

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and stakeholders in the form of official Monitoring Reports, Seasonal Reports, and other Reports as needed. 

• Working knowledge of techniques to preserve, restore, and maintain forests, uplands, wetlands, wildlife habitat and habitat for threatened or endangered species. 

• Valid driver’s license. 

• Physical ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

• A team player with an understanding of, and interest, in cultivating donors and volunteers. 

• Willingness to travel statewide as needed (limited) 

• Covid-19 inoculation 

Work Type and Schedule 

• Full time, year-round 

• Based in Salt Lake City, UT. Must be willing to travel to properties statewide. 

Compensation 

• $40,000 - 45,000 inclusive of benefits 

• Benefits include: Comprehensive health insurance, retirement plan, paid holidays, paid sick time, and paid time off. 

To apply

Please direct applications, including resume, letter of interest, ArcGIS cartographic example, an academic or professional scientific writing sample, and references via email to: Emily Ingram, Director of Conservation Utah Open Lands 1488 S. Main Street Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Emily@UtahOpenLands.org Electronic submission is encouraged. Visit www.UtahOpenLands.org to learn more about the organization