Conservation Project Manager OR Senior Conservation Project Manager

Protect the landscapes you love! Eagle County's Open Space and Natural Resources team is seeking a passionate and driven Conservation Project Manager to help us preserve and protect the stunning natural beauty of Eagle County.

This is your chance to play a direct role in acquiring and managing critical open spaces, from negotiating land deals to leading on-the-ground conservation projects. 

What You’ll Do:

• Lead Land & Easement Acquisitions (60%): You'll be at the forefront of identifying, negotiating, and acquiring vital properties to add to our open space network. This includes managing everything from appraisals to closing. 
• Build Strategic Partnerships (25%): Collaborate with landowners, government agencies, non-profits, and community groups to achieve shared conservation goals. 
• Secure Funding (5%): Write and manage grants to fund land acquisitions, restoration projects, and stewardship initiatives. 
• Manage Conservation Projects (5%): Oversee projects that protect biodiversity, restore native ecosystems, and improve ecological health.

Conservation Project Manager

This role is perfect for a skilled professional ready to manage key conservation projects and transactions

• Experience: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in ecology, landscape ecology, natural resources, restoration ecology, water resources, project management, or a related field, and 3 or more years’ experience performing project management-related projects. Experience preferred with conservation real estate transactions, real estate, or law. Additional preference with leading collaboration and partnerships, grant writing and administration, and contracting.
• You will: Manage due diligence, assist with negotiations, build partner relationships, and coordinate conservation projects with guidance from senior staff. 
• Ideal Candidate: You are an organized, proactive project manager with a solid foundation in conservation principles and real estate transactions.

Senior Conservation Project Manager

This role is designed for an experienced leader capable of handling complex, high-stakes negotiations and projects with greater autonomy

• Experience: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in ecology, landscape ecology, natural resources, restoration ecology, water resources, project management, or a related field, and 4 or more years’ experience performing project management-related projects. Experience preferred with conservation real estate transactions, real estate, or law. Additional preference with leading collaboration and partnerships, grant writing and administration, and contracting. 
• You will: Independently lead complex negotiations, represent the County in high-level public and private meetings, manage sophisticated contracts, and mentor team members. 
• Ideal Candidate: You are a seasoned negotiator and strategist with deep expertise in conservation deals, grant administration, and multi-partner collaboration.

• A Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources, Conservation, Ecology, Project Management, or a related field. 
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. 
• A deep appreciation and working knowledge of Western Colorado's landscapes, culture, and communities. 
• Familiarity with local county governments, town governments, recreational and outdoor activity constituencies, prominent civic groups and other key stakeholder groups. 
• A valid Driver’s License.

Culture & Benefits 

Working in local government is one of the best career paths in the mountains. ‘Your Career will Soar with Eagle County'. Get started with us today! 

• Why is Eagle County recognized as a Best Place to Work in 2022? Culture of flexibility and support for mental health/wellness. Check out more awards here.
• Purpose! A modern, values-driven workplace with more than 550 employees embracing a welcoming culture, supportive leaders, and an organization focused on our mission: Creating a Better Eagle County for All. 
• Learning organization focused on professional development opportunities, FREE CMC classes, and Tuition reimbursement. 
• Future-focused with our Strategic Plan on improving housing, climate change, and more.
• As a certified healthy workplace, our culture recognizes the importance of individual needs and enjoying life outside of work. Other perks may include flexible work arrangements, paid volunteer time, and daytime fitness classes/bike rides.

Great benefits! See the details 

• Comprehensive and low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance (as low as $85/month for employees only)
• Wellness program where you can earn cash or extra days off
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid time off (starting at 12 days) and additional medical leave 
• Paid volunteer hours
• 8% (dollar-for-dollar match) retirement plan
• Free classes at Colorado Mountain College
• Eagle County University classes (internal training) 
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Bilingual Pay Incentive
• Free bus pass and more

Relocation & Housing Information