1

Natural Lands Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Public Lands

$62K - $70K/yr

The Manager, Public Lands leads Audubon's Working Lands conservation project primarily on public ... Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, forest or coastal ecology, natural resources management, or ...

Manager, Public Lands

$62K - $70K/yr

The Manager, Public Lands leads Audubon's Working Lands conservation project primarily on public ... Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, forest or coastal ecology, natural resources management, or ...

Plant Recorder Location 330 North Spring Mill Rd, Villanova, PA, 19085, United States Base Pay $22.00 / Hour Other Compensation We offer a range of benefits and incentives including health insurance ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Natural Lands information

See salary details

$5

$66

$86

How much do natural lands jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for natural lands in the United States is $66.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.93 and $83.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a natural lands job?

Natural Lands jobs are roles focused on the stewardship, conservation, and management of natural environments such as forests, wetlands, parks, and preserves. These positions can include land managers, conservationists, ecologists, rangers, and educators who work to protect biodiversity, restore habitats, and promote sustainable use of natural resources. Employees may be involved in activities like habitat restoration, invasive species management, environmental education, and community outreach. Natural Lands jobs often require a passion for the environment and may be found within non-profit organizations, government agencies, or private conservation groups.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in natural lands management?

Professionals working in Natural Lands management often encounter challenges such as balancing conservation efforts with public access, managing invasive species, and adapting to changing environmental conditions. They frequently collaborate with ecologists, landowners, and volunteers to maintain habitats and implement restoration projects. Additionally, securing funding and navigating regulatory requirements can require strong project management and communication skills. These challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding for those passionate about environmental stewardship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a natural lands manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Natural Lands Manager, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, along with experience in land stewardship and conservation practices. Familiarity with GIS software, land management tools, and relevant certifications such as Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help facilitate collaboration with stakeholders and lead conservation initiatives. These skills are essential for effectively preserving natural habitats, ensuring regulatory compliance, and achieving conservation goals.

What is the difference between Natural Lands vs Environmental Educator?

AspectNatural LandsEnvironmental Educator
CredentialsTypically requires degrees in environmental science, ecology, or related fields; certifications in conservation or land management are commonRequires degrees in education, environmental science, or related fields; certifications in environmental education or teaching are often preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in parks, reserves, or conservation areas; outdoor settingsClassroom or outdoor settings, delivering educational programs to diverse audiences
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, land trusts focused on land conservationSchools, museums, nature centers, nonprofit organizations focused on environmental awareness

Natural Lands professionals focus on land conservation and management, often working outdoors to preserve natural areas. Environmental Educators primarily develop and deliver educational programs about the environment, working in classrooms or outdoor settings. While both roles promote environmental awareness, Natural Lands emphasizes land preservation, whereas Environmental Educators focus on educating the public about environmental issues.

More about Natural Lands jobs

What cities are hiring for Natural Lands jobs?

Cities with the most Natural Lands job openings:

What states have the most Natural Lands jobs?

States with the most job openings for Natural Lands jobs include:

Infographic showing various Natural Lands job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,959 per year, or $66.8 per hour.
National Audubon Society
Non-Profits • 501 - 1,000 employees

$62K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

About Audubon
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet's health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.
Position Summary:
The Manager, Public Lands leads Audubon's Working Lands conservation project primarily on public lands in North Carolina to achieve project outcomes that enhance the habitat value of grasslands, forests, coasts and wetlands and other natural lands for people, birds and other wildlife. As Audubon's voice on habitat projects being considered on public lands, this position represents our Audubon NC team in scoping meetings, helps draft comments (both public and technical) to drive bird benefits to public lands management. Audubon North Carolina's Working Lands program works throughout the state with a particular focus on habitats and conservation areas to advance projects that improve management of public lands for the benefit of birds in decline, enhance managed wetlands, ensure adequate habitat for resident and migratory birds, and improve the climate resilience of wildlife in these priority habitats across the state.
The Manager will work closely with partners at the Appalachian Mountains and Southeastern Atlantic Coast Joint Ventures, USDA National Forests of North Carolina, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, National Parks, State Parks, land trusts, and other public lands managers. They will work with Audubon chapters, local communities and other conservation partners to identify potential projects and partner habitat improvement projects that can better create or maintain critical bird habitats and assist with planning for monitoring outcomes from projects. The Manager reports to the Director of Conservation for Audubon North Carolina. This role is full-time, 40 hours a week.
This position is classified as remote in North Carolina. Remote work within the United States may be considered only for employees not within commuting distance (40 miles or less) of an Audubon office, in accordance with Audubon's "Where We Work" Policy. Hybrid employees are expected to work in an Audubon office every Monday and Tuesday and an additional two days each month of the employees' choosing.
Compensation:
$62,026 - $70,000 / year
Additional Job Description
Essential Functions
  • Lead efforts to identify, prioritize, and execute projects with public land managers and partners to implement habitat enhancement efforts on public lands throughout priority conservation areas in North Carolina.
  • With the Director of Conservation, develop and maintain relationships with public lands partners, including but not limited to the Appalachian Mountains and Southeastern Atlantic Coast Joint Ventures, USDA National Forests of North Carolina, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, National Parks, State Parks, land trusts, and other public lands managers.
  • Conduct or coordinate bird and other habitat monitoring at project sites and communicate results to scientific and non-scientific audiences.
  • With the Advocacy team (Communications, Community Building, and Policy) assist with outreach to Audubon chapters to build partnerships for conservation, restoration and enhancement projects and advocacy for priority conservation areas
  • Serve as a public representative of Audubon North Carolina which may include presentations, public speaking, meeting participation and/or other interactions with agencies, NGOs, Audubon chapters, and land stewards to both gather and disseminate information.
  • Advise project partners and public land managers on restoration design and native plants to enhance bird habitat. Provide on-site assessments and guidance to implement successful conservation and restoration projects.
  • Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
  • Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
  • Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.
  • Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, forest or coastal ecology, natural resources management, or related field required and a minimum of five years related experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
  • Knowledge and appreciation of the people, values, and current conservation issues of the habitats of North Carolina.
  • Experience applying the best available science and other information to achieve conservation outcomes.
  • Ability to manage complex projects with a variety of partners and to meet deadlines. Previous experience with design and management of restoration projects preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills and the ability to build consensus among a wide range of individuals (e.g. conservation partners, land and site managers, volunteers, and local community members).
  • Demonstrated experience with grant writing, writing scientific reports or papers, and writing for a general, non-science audience.
  • Ability to synthesize and communicate technical and complex information for a non-technical audience, with effective communication skills reaching varied audiences desired.
  • Strong project management skills, including but not limited to setting and implementing effective goals and objectives, problem-solving, time management, creating and maintaining collaborations with other organizations, developing public awareness activities, preparing reports, etc.
  • Commitment to Audubon's organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
  • Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Comfort navigating contentious regulatory issues to seek common ground with diverse interests.
  • Experience working on field research or monitoring projects.
  • A working knowledge of ArcGIS. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required.
  • A flexible approach to work and willingness to take on new projects or tasks as needed.
  • Ability to engage in strenuous outdoor activity, carry field equipment within varying terrain and weather, including cold and wet winter weather and extreme heat with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • A willingness to conduct in-state travel, occasional out-of-state travel and be comfortable working evenings and weekends as job responsibilities demand.
  • Valid driver's license required.

This position is represented by the Communication Workers of America (CWA).
National Audubon Society Competencies: This role will also be accountable to apply and develop the following competencies.
Fostering Relationships: Build trust, mutual respect, and understanding through regular and genuine interactions while promoting a positive and inclusive environment.
Analytical Thinking: Recognize and value diverse perspectives and experiences in data analysis to foster a more comprehensive and equitable approach to problem-solving.
Creativity and Innovation: Leverage creativity and imagination to generate new insights and solutions while embracing diverse ideas and approaches that foster innovation.
Facilitating Change: Work with others to explore innovative approaches to problem-solving while promoting inclusivity, equity, accessibility, and belonging in the change process.
Team Leadership: Communicate vision and engage others or the team to solve problems while valuing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusivity.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.
Accessibility Statement
The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.