Overview

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU), the world’s leading wetland and waterfowl conservation organization, is seeking qualified candidates for up to two Manager of Conservation Programs positions for its California, Nevada, Hawaii, and Arizona conservation program.  The position/s will be stationed in DU’s Western Regional Office in Rancho Cordova, California.  Each Manager will oversee two or more of the five geographically based Conservation Area Teams that develop and deliver DU’s conservation work in key landscapes within this four-state area.  DU is seeking highly motivated and experienced professionals to become part of a team of biologists, engineers, fund-raisers, and other professionals, and to help lead, develop, grow, and implement DU’s conservation efforts in California, Nevada, Hawaii, and Arizona.

Qualifications

DU is seeking well-organized individuals with proven abilities in leadership, partnership development and stewardship, strategic and business planning, budget and personnel administration, and programmatic fundraising.  Program and staff supervisory experience is desirable. A minimum of 5 years of related experience is required, and an advanced degree in ecology, biology, or environmental sciences is preferred.  A waterfowl biology and wetland ecology background are highly desirable.  Relevant experience in wetland restoration, working landscape conservation, and wildlife habitat management is required.  Applicants must have knowledge of state and federal land conservation programs, grant opportunities, and relevant policies and regulations.  Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as inter-personal skills, are required.  Proven grant writing and administration skills are required, as is a track record in successful partnership building.  Experience working with volunteers, board members, and donors is beneficial.

Duties and Responsibilities

The position/s will report to the Director of Conservation Programs (DCP).  Specific duties include:

  • Directly supervise biologists in area of responsibility.   Provide leadership, strategic vision, and management oversight.
  • Conduct day-to-day coordination with Conservation Area Teams and inform the DCP of activities, issues, and opportunities in area of responsibility.
  • Coordinate with other Manager of Conservation Programs to provide comprehensive management of the overall program and to collectively communicate program status to the DCP.
  • Work closely with Conservation Area Teams to identify staffing needs so the DCP and the Manager of Engineering Services can adequately forecast and apply resources as needed.
  • Coordinate with Conservation Area Teams to ensure that quarterly revenue projections are submitted on time and are accurate.   Resolve any issues to ensure that reliable revenue information is conveyed to the DCP.
  • Coordinate with biologists and other Manager of Conservation Programs to ensure that budgeted acreage and revenue projections are met for the fiscal year.
  • Coordinate end of fiscal year habitat delivery reporting for area of responsibility with GIS staff.
  • Provide quality assurance and quality control for proposal submittals and grant administration for key funding programs (e.g., North American Wetlands Conservation Act).
  • Provide guidance and support to biologists to assist them with building, growing, and implementing  effective and sustainable conservation programs.
  • Work cooperatively with DU’s communications team to regularly produce outreach and marketing materials for area of responsibility.
  • Develop and steward high level relationships with public agencies, private landowners, non-profit organizations, and other partner groups.
  • Secure funding and deliver direct, on-the-ground conservation projects as needed within the region, including wetland restoration/enhancement and land management practices.
  • Work closely with fundraising staff to cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, as needed, to support DU’s conservation program.
  • Attend professional meetings within the region and in other locations in the U.S. to represent DU and deliver presentations or support as needed.
  • Conduct other duties as assigned that are deemed necessary to fulfill DU’s mission of wetland conservation.