Position Summary:

The Conservation Ranger is responsible for the implementation of Adaptive Management and Stewardship Plans for two Conservation Easement properties: Bonanza Flat Conservation Area and Forty-fifth Star Conservation Preserve. This job includes in-the-field conservation, utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to provide measurable land management updates, and the creation of strong written and visual narratives about the progress of management plan goals and objectives. The Conservation Ranger will plan and 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 the Conservation Values attendant to the land. The Conservation Ranger is responsible for creating insightful maps and reports that will help decision makers understand when management goals are achieved or when they need to be adapted, and will participate in reviewing and revising management plans as determined by the Director of Conservation, Executive Director, and the Grantor(s) of the Conservation Easements. The Conservation Ranger will also engage with the public, assist with restorations and volunteer events, and exemplify stewardship best practices on conserved lands. Other duties may be assigned by the Executive Director, such as providing analysis for other properties stewarded by UOL.

Scope of Work/Responsibilities

Conservation Management:

• Track and collect data necessary to implement management plan goals and objectives.
• Provide input and strategies for restoration and recreation management.
• Identify ecological health barometers and suggest/implement protocols for effective measurement of Conservation Value trajectories.
• Implement action plan items identified within management plans and document progress.
• Use data to communicate the progress of management plan implementation through monitoring reports, seasonal reports, and other projects as assigned.
• Communicate and engage with landowners, Grantors, and land managers.
• Contribute to fundraising campaigns through grant writing, providing data, and/or participating in fundraising events as assigned by the Executive Director.
• Perform field duties safely and be comfortable working independently in remote areas under variable weather conditions.
• Have strong navigation skills and basic knowledge of first aid.

Public Engagement:

• Effectively communicate UOL’s conservation goals to the public in a manner that invites curiosity and connection.
• Inform the public of rules and regulations on conserved lands and take a nuanced approach to navigating conversations with individuals holding strong opinions.
• Provide leadership to interns, Conservation Ambassadors, and volunteers under the direction of the Executive Director and/or the Director of Conservation.
• Perform and assist with various outreach-related assigned duties.
• As the face of UOL, adhere to regulations, procedures, and demonstrate stewardship best-practices.

Data Collection and Reporting:

• Utilize ArcGIS applications for mapping, dataset management, data collection and analysis, editing, georeferencing, and map creation.
• Perform fieldwork to collect ecological data on invasive species, water quality, wildlife, forest health, etc.
• Maintain an organized system for storing data and tracking the conservation trajectory for various ecological elements.
• Create reports that convey the results of ecological monitoring objectives through the perspective of Conservation Easement management and stewardship.

Team Membership:

• Uphold UOL’s mission to preserve, protect and steward open space in order to maintain Utah’s natural heritage and quality of life for present and future generations.
• Adhere to UOL’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• 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.
• Work collaboratively to achieve successful organizational outcomes by developing strategic priorities and ensuring decisions are based on sound conservation science and strong relationships.
• Seek to continuously improve and develop skills and abilities.

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.

To apply: Submit a resume, letter of interest, ArcGIS cartographic example, an academic or professional scientific writing sample, and references in a single PDF document to: Info@UtahOpenLands.org 

Applications due: May 26, 2026

Interviews to be scheduled for the week of June 1-5, with an anticipated start date of June 8th.