Conservation Jobs in Merrimack, NH (NOW HIRING)

Stateof New Hampshire Job Posting
NH Fish and Game Department
Directors Office
11 Hazen Drive Concord NH 03301
CHIEF OF LAND STEWARDSHIP AMD CONSERVATION
Position#19852
$34.14/hour - $46.63/hour
*See total compensation information at the bottom of announcement.
The State of New Hampshire, NH Fish and Game Department has a full-time vacancy for Chief of Land Stewardship and Conservation
Summary:
Serves as Chief of Land Stewardship and Conservation overseeing and directing a broad portfolio of statewide programs that promote ecological health, support voluntary conservation on private lands, and strengthen partnerships with landowners, conservation organizations, and local stakeholders. Shapes and implements the agency's vision for sustainable land management and long-term conservation stewardship across New Hampshire. Develops and executes a comprehensive stewardship and conservation strategy aligned with the agency's mission and statewide priorities. Operates under the general administrative direction of the Executive Director, providing strategic leadership, coordination, and oversight across all conservation initiatives.
YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.
Other information:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 6.5 years of experience OR equivalent combination of 10.5 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in wildlife, fisheries, natural resources, biological sciences, aquatic biology research, environmental science, or a related field, and include at least 4 years of program administration, program planning and evaluation, or management.
License/Certification: Valid driver's license and access to transportation
Other Requirements: Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) must meet the minimum standards established by the agency
Trainee Option: Candidates with an equivalent combination of 9.5+ years of relevant education and experience after completion of high school with 3+ years of program administration, program planning and evaluation, or management may be considered and hired in 'trainee status' for this position.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in wildlife management, stakeholder engagement, and federal and state conservation funding programs, including NRCS, VIP-HIP, Forest Legacy, and conservation easements. A deep understanding of land stewardship principles, coupled with the ability to build trust and foster productive relationships, is essential. The candidate should have comprehensive knowledge of land use regulations and resource protection strategies.
Additionally, the candidate must demonstrate a proven ability to integrate science-based practices with collaborative, community-driven approaches. Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills are vital, along with the capacity to navigate complex policy issues and provide clear, strategic recommendations. Previous supervisory experience is highly preferred. The successful candidate will be an effective communicator and strategic thinker, exemplifying a collaborative leadership style that promotes teamwork and shared goals.
AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS: None
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
In-Band Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No
Criteria: None
Broad Group Level Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No
Criteria: None
DISCLAIMERS:
The supplemental job description lists the essential functions of the position and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that job title.
When applicable, the work of an employee in trainee status in this position shall be overseen by a fully qualified individual. An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time specified on the SJD, not to exceed one year of being hired into this position.
Responsibilities:
DETAILED TASKS (STANDARD): None
DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):
Leads large-scale land management initiatives requiring advanced multidisciplinary expertise, overseeing high-stakes problem-solving with significant ecological and community impacts across private, state, tribal, and conservation lands.
Develops and implements complex programs in habitat management, landowner outreach, conservation easements, working lands, and long-term stewardship, utilizing rapid analysis, decision-making, and managing large-scale accountability. Supports the expansion of hunting, fishing, trapping, and wildlife viewing access, balancing stakeholder interests through skilled negotiation and interpersonal techniques.
Operates independently to set priorities and allocate resources efficiently within tight deadlines, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks, conservation agreements, and land standards. Represents the agency in interagency groups, policy forums, and public meetings, influencing policy and conservation strategies.
Guides strategic planning by developing management plans, monitoring protocols, and restoration strategies with broad environmental impacts. Evaluates program performance using data and stakeholder feedback, identifying risks and opportunities related to climate resilience and resource protection.
Provides expert guidance on conservation policy, land use planning, and resource stewardship. Leads policy development, fostering collaboration and managing controversial negotiations. Supervises and mentors staff to promote teamwork, accountability, and professional growth in fast-paced environments.
Manages budgets, contracts, and grants for stewardship and conservation programs, ensuring strategic resource allocation aligned with departmental and federal standards. Oversees reporting, performance metrics, and communication efforts to leadership and the public to promote transparency and influence.
Advises on private land access and conservation strategies, collaborating with state and federal agencies, consultants, and public groups. Utilizes advanced analytical techniques and strategic resource management to achieve sustainable land outcomes with significant environmental and social benefits.
For further information please contact Stephanie Simek Executive Director (603) 271-3511 via email stephanie.l.simek@wildlife.nh.gov. or Dee Grimes Human Resource Administrator (603) 271-2496 via email deirdre.l.grimes@wildlife.nh.gov.
*TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The State of NH total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits, including:
HMO or POS Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits:
The actual value of State-paid health benefits and the amount of employee health benefit contributions may vary depending on the type of plan selected and the bargaining unit with which a position is associated.
See this link for details on State-paid health benefits:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/benefits.aspx
Value of State's share of Employee's Retirement: 12.87% of pay
Other Benefits:
*Dental Plan at minimal cost for employees and their families ($500-$1800 value)
* Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
*State defined benefit retirement plan and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
*Work/life balance flexible schedules, paid holidays and generous leave plan
*$50,000 state-paid life insurance plus additional low-cost group life insurance
*Incentive-based Wellness Program (ability to earn up to $500)
Total Compensation Statement Worksheet:
https://www.das.nh.gov/jobsearch/compensation-calculator.aspx
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/documents/BenefitBrochure.pdf
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/index.aspx
EOE
TDD Access: Relay NH1-800-735-2964