The Missouri River Bird Observatory (MRBO) is seeking a passionate, strategic, and collaborative Conservation Engagement Coordinator to help advance science-based conservation policy across Missouri. This position will work at the intersection of conservation science, public policy, education, and community engagement to protect birds, native habitats, clean water, healthy ecosystems, and the people who depend on them.

Working closely with MRBO staff and many conservation partners, the Conservation Engagement Coordinator will help shape and advance the organization's public policy priorities, build broad coalitions, educate decision-makers and the public, and ensure that sound science informs conservation policy at the local, state, and federal levels.

Primary Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Represent MRBO in statewide and regional conservation coalitions and help build productive partnerships with organizations, agencies, and community leaders.

• Track emerging conservation issues, legislation, and agency actions affecting Missouri's wildlife, natural resources, and communities, communicating their implications to staff, partners, and the public.

• Meet with elected officials and agency staff to advocate for science-based conservation policies within the guidelines governing nonprofit advocacy.

• Prepare written comments, testimony, educational materials, fact sheets, opinion pieces, and other communications that translate complex policy issues into clear, accessible language.

• Organize and deliver workshops, presentations, webinars, and community events that increase public understanding of conservation issues and civic engagement.

• Contribute regularly to MRBO's website, newsletters, social media, and other outreach efforts.

• Collaborate with MRBO staff to integrate advocacy with the organization's broader conservation, education, and community engagement programs.

• Assist with developing grant proposals and other funding to support MRBO's continued conservation advocacy work.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• A demonstrated commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship.

• Knowledge of ecology, wildlife conservation, natural resources, environmental policy, or a related field sufficient to understand how policy decisions affect ecosystems on the ground.

• Excellent writing, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Experience building relationships and working collaboratively with diverse partners, including people with differing perspectives.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic policy environment.

• Initiative, sound judgment, creativity, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Experience with public policy, advocacy, grassroots organizing, education, nonprofit work, or government is preferred.

The successful candidate will also bring curiosity, resilience, and optimism. Conservation advocacy often involves responding to rapidly changing challenges, and we are looking for someone who can remain thoughtful, strategic, and mission-focused while helping others navigate complex issues.

Position Details

This is a one-year term position with potential for renewal based on funding availability, organizational needs, and mutual interest. The position may be filled as either part-time or full-time depending on the experience of the selected candidate and organizational needs.

Some evening and weekend work, as well as travel throughout Missouri, will be required. While much work can be done in a hybrid format (i.e. working from home), frequent in-person events, MRBO staff meetings in Arrow Rock, MO, partner meetings, and presence at the Missouri State Capitol during the January – May legislative session arenecessary. Therefore, the Conservation Engagement Coordinator must reside within approximately 90 miles of Jefferson City, Missouri.

Compensation is $45,000–$47,000 per year, depending on experience, for a full-time position. Benefits are available for full-time employees. If the position is filled at less than full-time, compensation will be prorated or negotiated based on schedule, experience, and organizational needs. Benefits may include paid leave, flexible scheduling, retirement contributions, and/or health benefits, depending on final position structure.

Work-related travel, including lodging, some meals, and mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use, will be reimbursed according to MRBO policy.

About MRBO

The Missouri River Bird Observatory is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats through science, education, and advocacy. We believe lasting conservation succeeds when it is rooted in sound science, strengthened by partnerships, and supported by engaged communities. Our work spans bird conservation, habitat restoration, public education, and policy advocacy on issues including healthy waters, native grasslands, responsible land use, pesticide reduction, plastics, and other emerging conservation challenges.