Program Specialist

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 diverse workforce of more than 5,000 employees. The organization focuses on various conservation initiatives, including wildlife protection, habitat restoration, and climate change mitigation, working collaboratively with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes.

Job Overview:
The Program Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Great Plains Wildlife Initiative (GWPI) by fostering relationships with key partners involved in wildlife conservation efforts in the Great Plains ecoregion. This position will primarily focus on bison restoration, while also addressing the conservation of other species such as black-footed ferrets and beavers. The Program Specialist will work closely with Tribal, federal, and state agencies, private landowners, NGOs, and academic institutions to provide technical and financial assistance, contribute to fundraising efforts, and ensure the successful implementation of conservation projects. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for collaboration and innovation in wildlife restoration, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Specialist will be responsible for supporting the GPWI team in achieving strategic goals related to wildlife restoration. Key duties include identifying and nurturing relationships with local communities and stakeholders, engaging with partners to implement sustainable conservation projects, providing technical assistance and strategic guidance, tracking progress on conservation initiatives, and developing work plans and program materials. The Specialist will also prepare budgets and administrative documentation for contracts, assist in drafting funding proposals, represent WWF at meetings and workshops, and manage various consultants and interns. Additionally, the role involves communicating project outcomes to the public through presentations and outreach efforts, as well as advocating for wildlife restoration at local, regional, and national levels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must 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. The ability to collaborate effectively with Native nations and rural communities is essential, as is experience in coordinating complex projects with diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of proposal writing, grant management, and donor engagement is advantageous. Strong organizational, research, analytical, and project management skills are required, along with excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in natural resources management, wildlife ecology, environmental studies, or a related field is required. An advanced degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may substitute for some professional experience. Candidates should have a solid foundation in ecological principles and conservation strategies, particularly as they relate to the Great Plains region.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4–6 years of professional experience in relevant fields, or 2+ years of experience with an advanced degree. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in managing conservation projects, particularly in the Great Plains, and should be familiar with the ecological and cultural contexts of the region. Experience working with diverse stakeholders and managing multi-partner projects is essential.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as the role involves extensive communication with partners and stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not 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 travel within the Great Plains, approximately 25–50% of the time. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and the position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The salary range for this position is between $69,000 and $86,10

• Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume through the WWF Careers Page, referencing Requisition #2603
• WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.