Land Protection Manager

The Whidbey Camano Land Trust seeks an experienced real estate professional to protect important lands and waters in Island County, located in northwest Washington State. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, high-caliber, results-oriented team focused on conserving the natural habitats, beauty and working farms and forests of Whidbey and Camano Islands.

The work is fast-paced, challenging, and highly rewarding. The office is located on historic Greenbank Farm in central Whidbey Island with beautiful scenery and trail access right outside the front door. Join the friendly, passionate, hardworking board and staff with a great mission, competitive salary and full benefits.

Position Overview:

The Land Protection Manager's job is a senior position that will manage the land protection work of the organization with a focus on acquiring priority lands, both fee simple and conservation easements, from willing landowners.

The Land Protection Manager will supervise and mentor the Land Protection Specialist and coordinate closely with Stewardship staff. S/he will also oversee, write, present and implement conservation grants and various strategic planning documents. The intent is to have this position lead the Conservation Team (land protection and stewardship) in two years time.

Responsibilities:

For the first one to two years: Direct and implement the land protection program and take a lead staff role in accomplishing the mission of the Land Trust. The Land Protection Manager's job responsibilities and duties include the following:

• Carry out all phases of all types of land acquisition projects (fee simple, conservation easement and agency assists) including project evaluation; landowner outreach, cultivation and negotiation; coordination with partners; coordination with Conservation Team members and other staff; draft legal and other documents; consult with legal counsel and executive director; identify and secure grant funds; and close transactions.
• Manage and mentor and coordinate with the Land Protection Specialist.
• Conduct outreach to public and private landowners with properties in Protection Priority Areas.
• Provide leadership on project development and evaluation.
• Oversee response to landowner requests and inquiries regarding potential gifts or sales.
• Develop and carry-out funding strategies for land protection projects, including identifying, researching, developing, writing, presenting, securing and implementing grants and other funding sources to achieve land protection goals.
• Take lead on forming partnerships and gaining support for projects including outreach to and involvement with members, neighbors, general public, agencies, legislators and landowners.
• Take lead in updating the Land Protection Priorities Plan and drafting policies and procedures related to the land protection program.
• Consult with the Land Steward and Stewardship Committee to ensure that land protection projects are consistent with long-term stewardship policies and procedures.
• Promote the Land Trust by making presentations to a variety of groups.
• Assist Outreach Manager in writing newsletter articles, preparing landowner information packets and brochures and updating information for the website.
• Participate in organizational development, board training, and fundraising activities.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Following Years: Serve as Conservation Team leader, adding the Stewardship Program under his/her supervision and guidance.

Qualifications & Attributes:

• Bachelors or graduate degree in conservation, law, real estate, ecology, planning, natural resources or related field, and a minimum of four years experience in the land acquisition and protection field.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring staff.
• Skilled at negotiation, problem-solving, and relationship building with solid knowledge of real estate, protection techniques and land conservation principles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully complete complex land protection projects.
• Ability to work with diverse people and develop positive working relationships with landowners, government agency employees and other stakeholders.
• Ability to set priorities and organize time efficiently.
• Ability to work some non-standard hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to work independently and be able to lift 30 lbs.
• Valid, insurable driver's license.
• Competent with standard computer software, including MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint,
• Internet and e-mail.
• Possess ability, interest, aptitude and skills for transition to Conservation Manager.

Desirable SKills & Experience

• GIS and other mapping tools.
• Conservation financing and tax law benefits.
• Private and foundation fundraising.

Compensation: This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position paying from $45,000-$60,000, depending on expereince. The Land Trust offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The office is both smoke-free and fragrance-free.

To Apply:

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to submit a resume and letter of interest by November 30, 2013. Or mail your application materials to:

Whidbey Camano Land Trust
765 Wonn Road #C-201
Greenbank, WA 98253 

~ The Land Trust is an equal opportunity employer. ~