Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Specialist

National Audubon Society•Denton, NE

1d•$62,150 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

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. The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Specialist will oversee delivery of a RCPP awarded in partnership with the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture (RWBJV). These RCPP awards deliver working lands programs to improve private landowners’ ability to restore and enhance grasslands. The RCPP specialist will work with partner field staff responsible for enrolling landowners into working lands programs and assisting landowners in the implementation of innovative land management practices to ensure that RCPP goals and specifications are met. This position is funded through the RCPP, with funds available for a four year position with the potential for a two year extension. The RCPP Specialist will work under the direction of Audubon Great Plains Director of Conservation and RWBJV Coordinator. This is an onsite position out of the NCF office in Grand Island, NE.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in biology, ecology, natural resources management, wildlife management, or related field. At least five years’ experience in delivering private lands conservation programs, ideally within NRCS or USDA Conservation Programs. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
Highly organized with good interpersonal skills.
Experience working with local agencies and organizations to help ranchers secure cost-share and incentive program funding to implement improved rangeland management practices.
Demonstrated understanding of agricultural principles and commonly used farming and ranching techniques and terminology.
Knowledge of NRCS field office technical guide for conservation practice specifications and preparing conservation plans that adhere to it.
Strong Interpersonal Skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to work effectively with producers and partners.
Working knowledge of ArcGIS, GPS, and other GIS technology.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Word, Excel, Outlook, and Powerpoint.
Proficiency with video conference software, particularly Zoom and Teams.
Must be comfortable with traveling overnight for work related events, have reliable transportation, and be able to work occasional evenings and weekends.
Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
Must have a Valid Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Responsibilities

Maintain a comprehensive understanding of awarded RCPP proposals and activities supported through the awards.
Oversee the implementation of the RCPP, ensuring projects meet the RCPP program goals and objectives.
Review and ensure partner developed landowner applications are complete with the necessary landowner information, treatment design meets NRCS standards and specifications, bidding documentation compiled, and matching funds are accurately presented.
Establish and maintain relationships with partners, including government agencies, non-profits, contractors, and other private sector entities that are supporting on-the-ground delivery.
Manage RCPP funding, ensuring it is allocated appropriately and in accordance with program guidelines and request for payment reimbursement is completed monthly.
Coordinate with RWBJV GIS staff to document proposed projects, planned work (i.e. brush management, prescribed burning, Prescribed Grazing, Pest Management Conservation System), and completed projects.
Coordinate with RWBJV science staff to evaluate biological outcomes (number of priority birds impacted) and forage production benefits for participating producers.
Provide technical support and guidance to partners and producers on conservation practices and project implementation.
Support training as necessary to ensure projects are planned and completed in accordance with NRCS Standards and Specifications.
Facilitate annual training to help new staff learn about the RCPP and necessary requirements for successful landowner agreements to support working lands solutions.
Ensure partners are implementing the necessary conservation measures to address special environmental concerns associated with Threatened and Endangered Species.
Review contracts to ensure they meet compliance with environmental and administrative policies, rules, and technical specifications.
Maintain fiscal and programmatic records for reporting related to match and grant funds.
Prepare and submit reports on program activities, progress, and outcomes to stakeholders and funding agencies.
Offer guidance and resolve issues that may arise during implementation of RCPP projects.
Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.
Maintains and fosters culture of safety.