Scope of work: The Land Protection Specialist is responsible for the encouragement, development, negotiation and documentation of real estate transactions conducted by Berks Nature or BCC Properties, Inc. Our land protection efforts will focus primarily on Land Conservation Easements and Fee Simple property acquisition. This position works closely with the Senior Ecologist and is responsible for land protection outreach primarily in the Hay Creek Watershed and along the Kittainny Ridge. Requires proven real-estate knowledge with specific expertise in easement acquisition and negotiation, excellent writing skills, exemplary interpersonal skills and a genuine appreciation in working with diverse audiences.
Position reports to: Dual reporting to President & Senior Ecologist
This position has part-time funding for 3 years. Extension of the position beyond June 2020 will depend upon additional funding. There is potential for the position to move to full-time based upon the success of our outreach, fundraising and land protection efforts.
Specific duties include but are not limited to:
• Promote Berks Nature’s Mission & Services.
• Contact landowners interested in land preservation and explore ways Berks Nature can assist
them. Prepare and explain appropriate documents to accomplish protection of the property.
• Maintain landowner visit checklist and contact report with regard to easement discussions.
• Maintain model Conservation Easement documents.
• Landowner outreach with demonstrated ability to pull together resources to develop municipal
outreach meetings for landowners interested in protecting their property.
• Prepare, organize and monitor grants and respective project budgets.
• Assist with organizing easement transactions and baselines.
• Assist with monitoring and management of Berks Nature Owned properties.
• Assist with and manage annual monitoring of Berks Nature easements coordinating visits with landowners.
• Some monitoring and management activities require physical exertion
• Assist with the completion of baseline reports.
• Contribute to and prepare grant applications for program opportunities.
• Implement projects that support our conservation strategies.
• Assist in identifying and implementing the land, water, urban greening and conservation outreach programs of Berks Nature.
• Represent Berks Nature on appropriate committees, meetings and/or conferences that effect Berks County and our mission.
• Coordinate efforts with local, regional and state government and non-government partners as necessary.
• Perform other duties that may be assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
A candidate is being sought with broad skills and knowledge of the field of natural resource management and land protection. He or she will:
• hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in environmental resource management or related area, and 3-5 years related experience or equivalent combination.
• have experience with principles of land acquisition and conservation easements;
• prepare and present project proposals, including negotiating with federal, state and local agencies to achieve program goals;
• possess superb communication and presentation skills, and have the ability to communicate a compelling and inspired vision, as well as a sense of core purpose to any audience, individually and in groups;
• work in partnership with other organizations/entities in a collaborative or advisory role, and have the ability to gain cooperation from individuals or groups over whom there is no direct authority in order to accomplish program goals;
• be able to work with a broad-based constituency that includes influential people who may have divergent views related to environmental issues;
• have the ability to design, implement, and direct multiple projects, setting deadlines and ensuring program accountability;
• negotiate complex high profile or sensitive agreements;
• maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information; and
• have a valid driver’s license and a functioning personal vehicle.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Berks Nature recently built The Nature Place a state of the art, sustainable, LEED certified education center and office building. Our offices and the park are smoke-free. The ability to work in friendly – but open – quarters is required. Working hours may include some evenings and weekends. Travel is usually fairly local, rarely requiring overnight stays.
