[Hiring] Easement Program Specialist @Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Role Description

This position will support the implementation of NRCS conservation easement programs under the Farm Bill, to restore and conserve wetlands, grasslands, and farmlands nationwide.

• Manage projects from start to completion including reviewing program eligibility documentation, restoration plans, and agreements to ensure compliance with NRCS policies.
• Assist NRCS with the procurement and review of due-diligence documents (appraisals, environmental database reviews, and preliminary title commitments).
• Maintain a solid understanding of NRCS’s ACEP and RCPP program policy, bulletins, and national instructions.
• Review land eligibility documentation for easement projects and assess whether proper documentation has been provided.
• Work with NRCS State offices to address incomplete eligibility requirements.
• Review maps and/or other restoration, conservation, and grassland management plans to ensure adequate information is provided to meet program objectives.
• Review programmatic waiver documentation and assess whether waiver request meets criteria.
• Ensure the land eligibility criteria aligns with conservation easement deeds based on programmatic requirements.
• Conduct a preliminary review of Title Commitments and legal access to assist Realty Specialists.
• For Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE), ensure there is a preliminary restoration plan documented in Conservation Desktop.
• Ensure points earned in ranking documents are reflected in restoration plans and conservation easement deeds.
• Review easement agreement packages and quality check them to ensure each is complete and accurate.
• Prepare and send outgoing mail through appropriate mailing/shipping providers.
• Track assigned easement project from application through acquisition following current NRCS protocols.
• Analyze project completion timelines and proposed actions necessary to complete acquisition.
• Coordinate among other team members and participate in standing meetings as requested.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife, environmental science, ecology or related conservation field, preferably a graduate degree.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and manage multiple assignments with different deadlines.
• Ability to adopt new approaches in response to changing circumstances.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of Farm Bill conservation easement programs.
• Experience working with private landowners is preferred.
• Ability to work and develop relationships with diverse partners including federal staff, vendors, and land trusts.
• Field experience working in wetland, grassland, or other aquatic systems is preferred.
• Conservation planning and/or wetland restoration planning experience is preferred.
• Ability to review restoration plans, grassland management plans, or conservation management plans is preferred.
• Experience with reading/reviewing deeds and familiarity with title work.
• Ability to effectively plan, organize and prioritize work activities and complete tasks to meet deadlines.
• Computer literacy with a proficiency in ArcGIS, word processing, spreadsheet, and database management programs.
• Experience and proven ability to encourage collaboration among diverse project partners.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with proven ability to convey information clearly.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to foster collaborative problem-solving.
• Ability to work independently and maintain a high level of productivity in a remote work environment.

Benefits

• Salary $65,000 to $75,000, commensurate with experience & education.
• Comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, including spouse and dependent coverage.
• Three weeks paid vacation.
• Paid sick leave and 10 paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan (including partial employer match).
• Tuition reimbursement.

Application

Please fill out the application materials, attach a cover letter and resume indicating your qualifications and why you are interested in the position. The position will be open until filled.

Application Deadline

Applications will be accepted until a qualified applicant is identified.