OFFICE LOCATION

Boulder, Colorado, USA

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube   to hear stories from staff or visit  Glassdoor.

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

As a member of the Conservation Science and Planning Team within TNC’s Colorado Business Unit, the Conservation Geographer will report to the Senior Conservation Analyst. The Conservation Geographer has a lead role in providing technical and scientific support for conservation projects, plans, strategies, and initiatives through static and dynamic geospatial data visualization. They develop and manage traditional maps ranging in size from brochures to posters, digital mapping platforms, and outreach-focused products such as ArcGIS StoryMaps while also supporting mobile mapping and data collection (e.g., ArcGIS Field Maps, Survey 123). In doing this work, they implement TNC’s emerging cartography guidelines and may have the opportunity to shape future guidelines for both traditional cartography and web maps. As directed by the Senior Conservation Analyst, the Conservation Geographer also assists with geospatial analyses, data management, and related tasks. In addition, they provide training and technical support to staff and collaborators, evaluate and integrate new data visualization methodologies, and may supervise temporary staff based on business needs.

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

As the Conservation Geographer, you are a creative, experienced, and detail-oriented professional who envisions and directs visualization of conservation data and information. In addition, you are a thoughtful and collaborative problem solver who is motivated and energized by the use of data visualization, analysis, and related approaches to support land and water conservation efforts, to explore solutions to complex conservation challenges affecting nature and people, and to communicate effectively to diverse audiences including partners, funders, decision-makers, and the public. You will also help incorporate scientific developments into the evolving evidence base for Colorado’s conservation efforts, collaborate strategically with a broad and inclusive scientific community, leverage results to advance key conservation initiatives, and continuously expand your own skills and experience.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

• Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Spatial Science, Ecology, Biology, or related field and 3 years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience using GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS Pro), analyzing raster and vector data, and producing data reports.
• Experience developing compelling, data-driven, professional-quality print maps and web-based visualizations. Note: applicants selected for panel interviews after initial phone screenings will be asked to provide representative examples of data visualization projects they have developed or supported; such examples are not required at the time of application.  
• Experience in managing multiple projects.
• Ability to communicate clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English.
• Valid driver’s license.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated experience in producing professional cartography in ArcGIS Pro and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Demonstrated experience with creative approaches for web-based data visualization and science communication to technical and non-technical audiences (e.g., data dashboards, Story Maps, and web mapping tools such as Mapbox or R Shiny), including designing and documenting best practices for data visualization in a team environment.
• Experience customizing website content with HTML and CSS.
• Experience producing 3D visualizations in ArcGIS Pro or equivalent software.
• Experience conducting spatial analysis of vector and raster data related to land and/or water conservation, natural resource management, environmental science, climate resilience, social dimensions of conservation, etc. Ability to script analyses in Python, R, or Javascript is particularly appreciated.
• Knowledge of current conservation issues affecting nature and people in Colorado and the broader Western U.S.
• Commitment to integrating and upholding principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Commitment to support engagement with Tribal Nations and other Indigenous Communities.
• Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Basic knowledge of mapping and other data visualization needs for real estate transactions associated with land protection (e.g., interpreting legal descriptions, conservation easements).

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in protecting the lands and waters on which all life depends. Through grassroots action, TNC has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, hundreds of scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff, we impact conservation throughout the world!

At TNC’s Colorado Business Unit, we are working toward a vision for the future where all Coloradans benefit from clean air and water, Colorado is a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and at least 10 million acres of Colorado’s most critical lands and waters are connected, protected, and managed to sustain nature in the face of climate change. Across our work, we are striving to create a more diverse and inclusive community that drives equitable and transformational conservation change throughout our state.

The Nature Conservancy offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including: health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan including employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work wellbeing benefits. Learn more about our benefits at in the Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.

We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellbeing, and flexibility needs of the people we employ! The Conservation Geographer position will be based out of TNC’s office in Boulder, Colorado with the option of in-office or flexible (i.e., hybrid) work arrangements. The Conservation Geographer will be expected to travel occasionally to field sites and other locations in Colorado and potentially in adjacent states, with frequency determined by business needs. Infrequent overnight travel to more remote locations is expected.

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

The Nature Conservancy offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including; health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan including employer match, accrued paid time off (including annual, personal, and sick leave), life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work wellness benefits. Benefits may be subject to generally applicable eligibility, waiting period, contribution, and other requirements and conditions.  Learn more about our benefits at nature.org/careers. We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellness, and flexibility needs of the people we employ.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/careers/recruitment/ under the FAQ section.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

SALARY INFORMATION

Estimated starting salary: $ 61,000- $ 64,000 annually, dependent on qualifications and experience.