Restoration Steward

The Restoration Steward performs and participates in land management and restoration activities on TNC preserve and partner lands.

The Restoration Steward is a staff member of the Stewardship and Field Department (SAF) of The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) Florida Business Unit. SAF is responsible for implementing and managing field conservation work (e.g. wildland fire management, invasive species management including herbicide application, and upland habitat restoration) across Florida and for stewardship of the Florida Chapter’s network of preserves. TNC’s North Florida preserves are part of the statewide Center for Conservation Initiatives (CCI) and include Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve (ABRP), Rock Hill (RH), John S. Phipps Preserve (JSSP), and several other satellite preserves. This is a collaborative position between TNC and public agency partners, including the US Forest Service, Florida Park Service, and Florida Forest Service. The Restoration Steward will work under the direction of the Field Projects Manager to implement restoration projects with an emphasis on ecological land management for TNC’s preserves and conservation partners across the Eastern Panhandle.

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

The Restoration Stewards works with staff, partners, and volunteers to ensure strategic plans are met and land management plans are implemented. They work at the Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve (ABRP) as well as partner lands across the Eastern Panhandle. Based out of ABRP, they will work with team members to implement preserve and partner land management and restoration goals, including the ongoing sandhill ecosystem restoration effort, and serve alongside TNC’s Ecosystem Restoration Team (ERT). They may also work independently on partner lands at the direction of their supervisor. Associated tasks vary by season and typically include groundcover restoration, tree planting, erosion control, biological monitoring, invasive plant control, wildland fire operations, and oversight of contractors completing restoration projects.

The Restoration Steward does not have supervisory responsibilities but may help plan and direct work groups including staff and volunteers. They will make day-to-day decisions as delegated by their supervisor. The Restoration Steward will exhibit strong interpersonal skills and have the ability to foster teamwork and collaboration. Functions include natural resource management, prescribed and wildland fire operations, invasive species control, equipment operation including farm tractors with front and rear implements, fleet maintenance, and contract oversight among supporting other functions.

The incumbent may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This position requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.

Housing and basic utilities, except for telephone/internet, will be provided in a Conservancy residence at the Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve in Bristol, FL. This position is currently a term-limited position funded for 36 months, but there is potential for the term to be extended depending on the availability of additional funding.

The expected start date for this position is in January 2026.

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
• Within 3 months of hire, must meet minimum TNC – National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) qualifications for Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130). See the Conservancy’s Fire Management Manual for a full explanation of qualification requirements: https://www.tncfiremanual.org/FIrefighter.htm.
• Must achieve minimum TNC training and health requirements for wildland fires at the arduous level: Ability to walk 3 miles carrying 45 pounds with a time of 45 minutes or less.

Desired Qualifications

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Post-secondary coursework in forestry, wildlife, ecology, or other related field.
• 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.
• Willingness to work outdoors in both hot and cold weather.
• Knowledge/understanding of current trends and practices in conservation, land/natural resource management, or similar
• Ability to complete tasks independently with respect to timeline(s), frequently in the absence of supervision.

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program . Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $16.00 –$19.00 hourly rate. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor .

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”

What We Bring:

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.

Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.