Director of Science

The Director of Science will assume a critical leadership role for the Nevada and Utah Chapters. The Directors primary responsibility will be to guide these chapters in developing and deploying an evidence-based scientific approach to inspire inform and shape their conservation and policy this capacity the Director will actively promote positive outcomes for both nature and people within these states while also collaborating with other programs in the Western United States and Canada Division (e.g. Sagebrush Sea Program and Colorado River Program). The Directors scientific expertise will be instrumental in driving projects supervising and mentoring staff and integrating an evidence-based scientific approach to conservation planning. This leader will deploy existing and innovative solutions establish collaborative multi-disciplinary science-based partnerships and communicate effectively and persuasively. Success will be measured by the ability to work successfully through cross-functional teams to facilitate and produce transformative science that informs and influences conservation efforts for Nevada and Utah that will advance the goals of TNCs divisional and regional programs.

This job will require up to 30% travel between Salt Lake City and Reno and the surrounding areas.

• BA/BS degree and 7 years experience in conservation practice or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience managing complex projects including project design financial management and accountability for outcomes.

• Experience creating partnerships with conservation colleagues agencies and/or academic institutions.

• Supervisory experience.

• Experience working and communicating with a wide range of people.

• Experience manipulating analyzing and interpreting statistical or environmental data.

• Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals original science papers and/or synthesis papers.

• Experience fundraising and/or writing grants and research proposals.

• Strong familiarity with and understanding of climate change and its impacts on species ecosystems and people.

Desired Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a science-related field (e.g. ecology biology natural resources or social science) and 6 years of experience strongly preferred.

• Ability to engage in a wide range of conservation issues analyze complex problems rapidly build personal/team expertise on new

• Issues and develop strategic responses or solutions.

• Multi-lingual and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity equity and inclusion.

• Knowledge of species and ecosystems of the western US and familiarity with regional conservation issues.

• Understanding of how natural systems can serve as natural climate solutions toward carbon emissions reduction goals.

• Ability to utilize and/or deploy social science resources at the nexus of natural resource conservation and community health.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and work collaboratively across teams and disciplines with a wide range of partners.

• General understanding of environmental policy laws and regulations as they relate to natural resource management.

• Experience and/or publication history in one or more of the following areas: climate change adaptation nature-based solutions ecosystem services conservation planning or spatial analysis.

• Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical and scientific issues to a broad range of audiences and across platforms.

• Experience in fundraising that includes writing proposals for and interacting with private donors and foundations.

This position requires a valid drivers license and compliance with TNCs Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles rental cars or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered high risk drivers. To learn more about the Auto Safety Program visit the Auto Safety information page. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement which may include a review of the prospective employees motor vehicle record.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $00. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidates actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors including for example the candidates location qualifications specific skills and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancys mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization we create innovative on-the-ground solutions to our worlds toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. Were rooted in our mission and guided by our values which include respect for all people communities and cultures. Whether its career development flexible schedules or a rewarding mission theres many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are addition to the requirements in our job postings we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicants unique experience. Please apply wed love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC youll join for the mission and stay for the people.

What We Bring:

Since 1951 TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members over 400 scientists and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits flexible spending accounts a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match parental leave accrued paid time off life insurance disability coverage employee assistance program other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.

Were proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures races colors religions sexes national or regional origins ages disability status sexual orientation gender identity military protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancys background screening process.

Do you have military experience Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability please send a note to with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.