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 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 Specialist 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 vital wildlife species and their habitats in the Great Plains ecoregion. This position will primarily focus on bison restoration, while also addressing the conservation needs of black-footed ferrets and beavers. The Program Specialist will be responsible for cultivating relationships with various stakeholders, including Tribal, federal, and state agencies, private landowners, NGOs, and academic institutions. The role involves providing technical and financial assistance to partners, contributing to fundraising efforts, and ensuring that conservation projects are implemented sustainably and effectively. The ideal candidate will be proactive, innovative, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, while also being committed to fostering collaborative relationships with diverse communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Specialist will support the GPWI team in advancing strategic goals related to wildlife restoration. Key responsibilities include identifying and nurturing relationships with local communities and landowners, engaging with partners to implement conservation projects, providing technical assistance and strategic guidance, tracking progress on conservation goals, and developing innovative solutions for wildlife restoration. The role also involves preparing work plans, budgets, and compliance documentation, assisting in drafting funding proposals, representing WWF at meetings, and communicating project outcomes to various audiences. The Program Specialist will manage consultants and interns as needed and perform other duties as assigned to support the organization's mission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess 4–6 years of professional experience in natural resources management, wildlife ecology, or environmental studies, or 2+ years with an advanced degree in a related field. 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 multiple 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 one of these areas is preferred and may substitute for some professional experience. Candidates should have a solid understanding of ecological principles and conservation practices relevant to the Great Plains region.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4–6 years of relevant professional experience, or 2+ years 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 dynamics of the region. Experience working with diverse stakeholders and managing multi-partner projects is essential.

Languages:
While no specific language requirements are mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory. Additional language skills that facilitate communication with local communities and partners may be considered 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 role may require travel of 25–50% within the Great Plains region. The salary range for this position is between $69,000 and $86,10

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and the position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.