Position Title: Kentucky Heartwood Ecologist
Location: Berea, KY (Hybrid or Remote Work Options Available)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Executive Director

About Kentucky Heartwood:
Kentucky Heartwood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of Kentucky’s native forests and biodiversity through science, advocacy, and community engagement. We work to ensure ecologically responsible land management on public lands and promote forest justice across the state.

Position Overview:
Kentucky Heartwood is seeking a skilled and passionate Ecologist to lead scientific research initiatives, contribute to public education and outreach, and support our forest protection advocacy. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in field-based ecological research, demonstrated experience with ArcGIS, and familiarity with environmental policy and law. This is an opportunity to help shape conservation outcomes through both data-driven science and effective community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

Scientific Research and Analysis (40%)

• Design and implement ecological field studies related to forest health, biodiversity, restoration, and climate resilience.
• Conduct habitat assessments, species surveys (especially for rare, threatened, and endemic species), and forest inventory work.
• Analyze ecological data and produce technical reports to support public comments, legal actions, and community education.
• Utilize GIS tools (ArcGIS or QGIS) to map ecological features, analyze landscape patterns, and support campaign strategies.

Education and Outreach (30%)

• Develop and deliver presentations, field workshops, and guided hikes for diverse audiences including community members, students, and policymakers.
• Create public-facing educational materials, including blog posts, social media content, fact sheets, and newsletters.
• Support outreach to historically underrepresented communities and foster inclusive participation in forest advocacy efforts.

Advocacy and Environmental Policy Support (20%)

• Assist in reviewing and responding to Forest Service plans, Environmental Assessments (EAs), and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs).
• Provide scientific input on issues related to NEPA, ESA, and Clean Water Act compliance.
• Collaborate with legal and policy partners to ensure science-informed advocacy.

Organizational Support and Collaboration (10%)

• Contribute to grant writing and fundraising activities as needed.
• Participate in strategic planning and campaign development.
• Work closely with other staff and volunteers to support organizational priorities.

Qualifications:

Required:

• S. or M.S. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife Biology, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in field ecology or conservation science.
• Strong knowledge of Kentucky and Central Appalachian ecosystems.
• Competency in using GIS tools (e.g., ArcGIS) for data visualization and analysis.
• Demonstrated experience in public speaking and science communication.
• Familiarity with key U.S. environmental laws and federal land management planning processes.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small, mission-driven team.

Preferred:

• Experience engaging with grassroots movements and rural communities.
• Demonstrated publication or technical writing experience.
• Familiarity with the Daniel Boone National Forest Region.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary range: $45,000-52,000.00, based on experience.
• Flexible work schedule.
• Professional development and travel support