Program Officer (PO)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, dedicated to preserving the natural world and addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a global network of more than 5 million supporters. The organization focuses on various conservation efforts, including wildlife protection, habitat restoration, and sustainable resource management, with a mission to create a world where people live in harmony with nature.

Job Overview:
The Program Officer (PO) will play a crucial role in supporting the Great Plains Wildlife Initiative (GWPI) by working closely with WWF staff and key partners to restore and conserve wildlife such as bison, black-footed ferrets, prairie dogs, and beavers in the Great Plains ecoregion of the United States. The PO will be responsible for cultivating relationships with various stakeholders, including Tribal, federal, and state agencies, private landowners, NGOs, and academic institutions. The position will primarily focus on bison restoration, while also providing opportunities for involvement in the restoration of other species. The PO will provide technical and financial assistance to partners and contribute to fundraising efforts to achieve shared wildlife conservation goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Officer include supporting the GPWI team in advancing strategic goals for wildlife restoration, identifying and strengthening relationships with local communities and landowners, engaging with various partners to implement sustainable projects, providing technical assistance and strategic guidance, tracking progress for program planning, developing innovative solutions for conservation goals, preparing work plans and budgets, assisting in drafting funding proposals, representing WWF at meetings, supporting advocacy efforts, communicating projects to diverse audiences, managing consultants and interns, and performing other assigned duties.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess 4–6 years of professional experience in natural resources management, wildlife ecology, environmental studies, or a related field, or 2+ years of experience with an advanced degree. Experience managing conservation projects in the Great Plains is preferred, along with a strong understanding of regional ecology. Proven ability to collaborate with Native nations and rural communities is essential, as is knowledge of proposal writing and grant management. Strong research, analytical, and project management skills are required, along with excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Candidates must be organized, able to prioritize tasks, and work effectively both independently and collaboratively.

Educational Background:
A degree in natural resources management, wildlife ecology, environmental studies, or a related field is required. An advanced degree may substitute for some experience, as noted in the qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires 4–6 years of professional experience in relevant fields, or 2+ years with an advanced degree. Experience managing conservation projects, particularly in the Great Plains, is preferred, along with demonstrated ability to work with diverse stakeholders and manage complex projects.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for communication and collaboration. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a remote position with a preference for candidates located in western South Dakota or eastern Colorado, although candidates from eastern Montana or eastern Wyoming may also be considered. The position requires legal authorization to work in the U.S. and is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The salary range for this position is $69,000 - $86,100, and candidates should be willing to travel 25–50% within the Great Plains. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.