Title: Conservation Project Associate
Reports to: Land Protection Director
Location: Driggs, ID
Position Classification: Flexible, ranging from contractor, part-time, or full-time
Compensation: $50,000 full time or $24.00/hour
Position open until filled
About Teton Regional Land Trust
Teton Regional Land Trust (TRLT) works to conserve farms, ranches, fish and wildlife habitat, and scenic open spaces in eastern Idaho for current and future generations. TRLT has partnered with private landowners to permanently protect more than 42,000 acres of critical wildlife habitat, working farms, and waterways across six counties in the Upper Snake River watershed.
Job Summary
The Conservation Project Associate supports TRLT’s land protection program by managing conservation projects, fostering relationships with landowners and partners, and supporting strategic conservation efforts. Key responsibilities include assisting with project planning and execution, managing contractors and budgets, representing TRLT in negotiations, and supporting fundraising and outreach initiatives. The Associate will also contribute to TRLT’s mission by helping implement the organization’s strategic conservation plans and policies.
Primary Responsibilities (85%)
Land Protection Projects
Assist in managing conservation easement and fee acquisition projects in compliance with TRLT policies.
Conduct thorough due diligence for all projects, ensuring accuracy and integrity.
Respond to landowner inquiries and provide guidance on conservation options.
Develop and manage systems for tracking landowner inquiries and project applications.
Evaluate project proposals against TRLT’s selection criteria and present recommendations to the Conservation Committee and Board of Directors.
Coordinate with landowners, staff, and contractors to execute projects, including managing appraisals, surveys, title reports, and environmental assessments.
Draft and review contracts as needed.
Complete post-closing tasks such as record-keeping and follow-up communications.
Stewardship Support
Collaborate with the Stewardship Director and team to provide technical support for baseline documentation reports as needed.
Landowner Relations
Build and maintain professional relationships with landowners and their representatives.
Represent TRLT in negotiations and engagements with property owners.
Partnership Development
Foster relationships with nonprofit partners, government agencies, tribal governments, and collaboratives to advance TRLT’s mission.
Other Responsibilities (15%)
Fundraising
Assist in identifying grant opportunities, preparing proposals, and supporting grant administration and reporting.
Participate in other fundraising activities, such as attending member events and donor cultivation.
Outreach
Promote private land conservation through TRLT newsletters, website content, and public tours.
Work with communications staff to develop press releases and articles on conservation projects.
Support outreach events and programs as needed.
Team Contribution
Collaborate with TRLT staff and perform other duties as requested.
Essential Job Functions and Abilities
Build effective relationships with private landowners while communicating conservation objectives.
Traverse large properties (400+ acres) with rugged terrain in all seasons.
Manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Work independently while maintaining flexibility and adapting to changing priorities.
Travel frequently within southeastern Idaho and beyond as needed.
Demonstrate knowledge of local habitats, ecosystems, habitat management techniques, and farming and ranching practices.
Exhibit a passion for conservation and a commitment to continuous learning.
Qualifications
Valid driver’s license.
Bachelor’s degree or experience in agriculture, real estate, natural resources, or a related field.
Proven ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and grants.
Experience building relationships with landowners, agencies, and partners.
Knowledge of eastern Idaho’s natural resources, geography, economy, and communities.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Self-directed, motivated, flexible, and detail-oriented.
Additional Information
Funding for this position is guaranteed for 12 months; continuation depends on securing additional funds and performance.
Full-time employees receive a generous benefits package, including:
Paid vacation (two weeks in year one, increasing to three weeks after one year, and four weeks after four years).
8 sick days, 7 personal leave days, and 8 holidays; office closure from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day.
Eligibility for a 2-month paid sabbatical after 7 years.
Health and dental insurance, HSA contributions, life and disability insurance, and matching 401(k) contributions up to 3% of salary.
Application Procedure
Submit a cover letter detailing your interest, a resume, and three professional references to Kim at kimt@tetonlandtrust.org. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
TRLT is an equal opportunity employer and values candidates who bring diverse perspectives to our work.