The Partnership Specialist is an integral part of the Oak Openings project team, as well as the GRI team of partners, working to revitalize human and natural communities in the Oak Openings Region. The Partnership Specialist establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with NGOs, private landowners, schools, universities, state and local agencies, and corporations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan by providing opportunities for active involvement. They develop and implement trainings, community outreach, and educational strategies that effectively communicate TNC and GRI conservation messages and promote community-involvement in conservation efforts. They are responsible for coordinating meetings, workshops, and events, developing educational programs, and producing publications on behalf of the GRI partnership. This role will also involve serving as a spokesperson for the partnership using a variety of media to promote and increase public awareness and participation in land protection and management.

The Partnership Coordinator will oversee a private landowner registry, an Adopt-a-Natural-Area Program, the GRI education and outreach subcommittee, and the coordination of the Oak Openings Cooperative Weed Management Area. They will assist other land management staff in establishing management agreements, training partners, establishing contracts. They will ensure that partners are engaged and informed through regular communication and synthesis of information in print, social media, and through the GRI website. They are responsible for developing educational programming, publications, and materials, and creating media relations strategies to promote and increase public awareness.

The ideal candidate will proactively translate goals and strategies into action by working with partners to identify obstacles to conservation success and create plans to overcome those obstacles. They will demonstrate exceptional organizational and communication skills, the ability to keep detailed records, and possess basic knowledge of habitat restoration practices. They are expected to lead and/or participate in land management activities such as invasive species control as needed. This position is contingent upon funding, which is currently secured through June 2023. They will also collaborate with other program staff and partners to secure additional funding for this position and related TNC strategies. The starting salary for this position is $48,700 and is commensurate with experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE