Field Representative

~ The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that has proudly promoted and protected the natural resources, rural economy, history and beauty of the Virginia Piedmont since 1972. ~

PEC empowers residents to protect what makes the Piedmont a wonderful place, and works with citizens to conserve land, protect air and water quality, celebrate historic resources, build smart transportation networks, promote sustainable energy choices, restore wildlife habitat and improve people’s access to nature.

Position Overview

The Field Representative will be responsible for executing a diverse portfolio of land conservation, natural resource restoration, land use policy, and civic engagement efforts that further PEC’s mission, with a focus on the Upper Rappahannock watershed, including communities in Rappahannock, Culpeper, and Fauquier counties.

Job Classification: Full time, non-exempt

This position will be based at PEC’s headquarters office in Warrenton, VA.

Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing land protection strategies through:
  • Identification of key at-risk properties, landscapes, and resources;
  • Outreach and education to landowners, farmers, and professional advisers on conservation tools such as voluntary conservation easement donations, Purchase of Development Rights programs, and other conservation programs; and
  • Coordination with other public and private partners to further conservation in the Piedmont.
• Serving as part of the PEC’s stewardship team, responsible for ensuring appropriate monitoring and stewardship of PEC’s conservation easement and fee land portfolio.
• Initiating, leading, or participating in local community based conservation efforts, such as historic preservation, water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and/or agricultural land management demonstration projects.
• Teaming with other PEC staff to respond appropriately to major land use, conservation, and transportation threats in the region.
• Working directly with citizens and allied organizations to organize the public around campaigns, policies and outcomes supportive of the PEC mission, including adoption of language in the counties’ comprehensive plans and support or opposition to specific land use threats and opportunities.
• Regularly updating PEC Board members, other PEC staff, and members of local advisory committees on land use, conservation, and transportation issues affecting the communities served by the Field Representative.
• Collaborating with PEC communications and/or development staff to secure appropriate funding and/or or highlight the benefits of PEC’s work in the region
• Other related duties as required.
• The Field Representative reports to PEC’s Director of Conservation, but will also work closely with other field representatives, departments within PEC, and members of the PEC Board of Directors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 2-4 years work experience or Graduate degree in agriculture, forestry, natural resources, planning, law or related field preferred.
• A working knowledge of local land use planning and zoning in Virginia is preferred.
• A working knowledge of conservation policies, conservation easements, and real estate transactions, etc.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Experience working with rural landowners and the farming community is preferred.
• Experience working with local residents and/or community organizations, particularly in leading public outreach and/or education campaigns.
• Knowledge and experience with Google Suite and Microsoft Office productivity software.
• Requires minimal supervision.
• Willing to work some weekends and evenings.
• Willingness to live in the region you will work is highly desirable.
• Valid driver’s and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

Compensation: Salary will commensurate with experience

Benefits:

In addition to your salary, you will be eligible to participate in health, disability, term life insurance benefits and a 403 (b) employee pension plan. Upon employment, you will be entitled to paid holidays and will begin accruing personal leave as designated in the PEC Employee Handbook.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to upload your resume and cover letter. Please mention how you learned of this opening.