Position Overview

The Conservation Easement Coordinator supports Northwest Arkansas Land Trust's conservation stewardship and land protection programs through GIS mapping, field data collection, conservation documentation, landowner communication, and property monitoring.

This position is ideal for an early-career conservation professional seeking hands-on experience in land conservation, GIS, stewardship, and landowner relations. The Coordinator works closely with NWALT staff and conservation partners to support conservation easement projects, prepare Baseline Documentation Reports, maintain conservation records, and help steward protected lands across Northwest Arkansas.

The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, comfortable working outdoors, and passionate about conserving the natural resources, farms, forests, and open spaces of Northwest Arkansas.

Key Responsibilities

Conservation Project Support

• Support land conservation and stewardship projects throughout Northwest Arkansas.
• Assist with evaluating prospective conservation easement and land acquisition projects.
• Conduct site visits and gather information to support project assessment.
• Participate in landowner meetings and lead grant-specific landowner outreach efforts.
• Represent NWALT at community events and partner meetings as needed.

GIS and Mapping

• Create maps and exhibits using ArcGIS for conservation easement, stewardship, and monitoring purposes.
• Maintain GIS databases and spatial records.
• Collect GPS and field data to support conservation projects.
• Prepare maps and supporting documentation for conservation easement and stewardship activities.

Baseline Documentation and Records Management

• Prepare Baseline Documentation Reports.
• Collect photographs, GPS data, and other field information.
• Maintain conservation records and files in accordance with Land Trust Alliance Standards & Practices.
• Organize digital and physical project records.

Stewardship and Monitoring

• Conduct annual monitoring visits for assigned conservation easements.
• Prepare monitoring reports and photographic documentation.
• Maintain positive working relationships with landowners.
• Support stewardship projects and land management activities as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, biology, geography, natural resources, forestry, conservation, or a related field; or equivalent experience.
• Experience with ArcGIS or other GIS software; willingness to further develop GIS skills required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout Northwest Arkansas.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• Internship, volunteer, academic, or professional experience related to conservation, stewardship, GIS, natural resources, or land management.
• Experience collecting field data and using GPS equipment.
• Familiarity with Northwest Arkansas ecosystems and landscapes.
• Experience preparing technical reports or scientific documentation.
• Interest in pursuing a career in land conservation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to hike several miles over uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to carry field equipment, cameras, GPS units, and monitoring supplies.
• Ability to access remote rural properties that may include steep terrain, streams, fences, and dense vegetation.

About Northwest Arkansas Land Trust

Northwest Arkansas Land Trust is a nationally accredited nonprofit land trust dedicated to protecting the natural resources, working lands, wildlife habitat, and scenic landscapes that define Northwest Arkansas. Working with landowners, communities, and conservation partners, NWALT conserves land through voluntary conservation easements, land stewardship, and strategic conservation initiatives.

Northwest Arkansas Land Trust is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees.