The Laramie Foothills Conservation Assistant (LFCA) performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance, monitoring, management, and visitation on The Nature Conservancy’s Phantom Canyon Preserve and other conservation properties in Colorado.  The 1,120-acre Phantom Canyon Preserve protects one of the last remaining roadless canyons along Colorado’s Front Range, along with a suite of native wildlife and plants.  This position has an emphasis on visitor and donor outreach that will be integrated with outdoor work on adaptive management of the ecologically significant areas, opportunities to engage with visitors and community partners, and strategic initiatives that include conservation of ecosystems, water, and sustainable livelihoods. Responsibilities include completing an independent project relevant to the position and conservation, for presentation at the end of the position.

Following a one-week orientation and training, the Conservation Assistant will live in housing on the Phantom Canyon Preserve.  This person will gain valuable experience in local conservation efforts, collaborative conservation processes, outreach, and on-the-ground stewardship projects.  Duties include working with staff and volunteers to: repair and maintain trails and fences; monitor rare plant species; maintain and repair buildings, tools, and equipment; remove and treat exotic species; greet and guide visitors; patrol, open, and close preserve buildings; respond to visitor inquiries; administer and coordinate volunteer days; participate in ongoing research projects in the Laramie Foothills Conservation Area. The Conservation Assistant will interact frequently with visitors, donors, and other diverse guests including youth, providing a safe and positive experience. Position requires performing work in variable weather conditions, in remote locations, on difficult terrain and under physically demanding circumstances, including using hand and power tools (e.g., loppers, hand saws, weed trimmers).

Work may necessitate long hours, holidays and weekends as needed.  This is a 10.5-week position starting June 5, 2023, through August 16, 2023. Rustic accommodation is provided at no cost at Phantom Canyon Preserve. This may require a shared living space with other visiting staff if allowable by TNC COVID-19 guidance. Transportation to work locations is provided.

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!