Growing awareness of water quality issues is driving new opportunities for targeted conservation throughout the region that will benefit nature and human wellbeing. The Restoration Ecologist works with TNC’s Natural Infrastructure team to develop, manage, influence, and advance science-based wetland and stream restoration projects through diverse partnerships that contribute to goals to restore areas most impacted by nutrient enrichment primarily within the western Lake Erie, Scioto, and Great Miami watersheds. The Restoration Ecologist manages planning and implementation of multiple restoration projects. They report to the Natural Infrastructure Director, and will find a culture that supports conservation achievement and personal development, celebrates innovation, values collaboration, and seeks lasting conservation results.

The Restoration Ecologist implements and tracks activities to communicate TNC’s natural infrastructure conservation outcomes and goals, and contributes to the strategic direction of the Natural Infrastructure team. They identify partners and opportunities to scale up restoration efforts and apply cutting-edge ecological restoration techniques to projects. The Restoration Ecologist builds relationships with and capacity of partners, and coordinates community support. Frequent day travel to field sites is required.

• Manage planning and implementation process for multiple restoration projects, including:
• Write and manage large public grants and contracts, including developing restoration concept plans and reviewing engineered plans, scopes of work, requests for proposals, and budgets.
• Negotiate, contract, and oversee vendors.
• Perform ecological assessments.
• Ensure project compliance with internal and external regulations and policies.
• Under minimal supervision, make independent decisions based on analysis, experience, and context.
• Collaboratively engage and cooperate with TNC staff, as well as diverse external partners.
• May supervise staff/volunteers.
• Travel statewide, work in variable weather conditions, and at remote locations.