Willowsford Conservancy manages 2,300 acres of land in Loudoun County, Virginia, comprised of a 200-acre farm and 2,100 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands preserved for the Willowsford community, a development of more than 2,700 homes in four neighborhoods. The only “Agrihood” in the Washington, DC area, Willowsford is part of a growing movement for residential environmental sustainability where healthy people and healthy land coexist.

The Conservancy was established more than a decade ago to protect land and promote conservation and sustainable farming so that people in the Willowsford communities discover a deeper connection to nature and to each other. The Conservancy integrates a working farm with community-supported agriculture (CSA) shares and nearly 40 miles of trails, camping amenities, and other recreational facilities to promote connection to nature. In addition, our team engages with the greater community through events and educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and various communication channels.

Visit www.willowsfordconservancy.org to learn more.

Summary

The Land Stewardship Manager is a full-time, exempt position that reports to the Executive Director and supervision of the full-time field staff that implement land stewardship work. The position requires comprehensive field experience in forest, meadow and grassland management, arboriculture, invasive and native species management, habitat restoration, wildlife management, and related outreach and education.  

Responsibilities 

Land Stewardship

• Develop, implement, and maintain a land stewardship plan for land stewardship conservation.
• In keeping with the land stewardship plan, perform day-to-day land management activities focused on improving the ecological health of Conservancy open space and providing residents with quality outdoor education and recreation experiences.
• Organize and execute habitat restoration projects based on the land stewardship plan.
• Monitor and manage conservation threats such as overgrazing by deer; pests and diseases; and harmful practices like open space violations, dumping, or off-road vehicle use.
• Perform routine invasive species control through mechanical and chemical methods.
• Oversee the Deer Management Program; provide volunteer opportunities for hunters, enforce program regulations, and manage the participating hunters.
• Perform routine maintenance such as tree health assessments, removal of downed and hazardous trees, trail trimming, and participate in the installation and maintenance of infrastructure (kiosks, signage, fencing, minor construction work, etc.).
• Oversee and participate in prescribed burns performed in house.
• Provide program management and strategic direction to the programs managed by staff on the team, including our native plant nursery, wildlife management program, and other programs.
• Establish and track key performance metrics for land stewardship projects, native plant nursery, deer management program, wildlife management, and other programs to ensure goals are met efficiently and effectively.

Administration

• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment, providing mentorship and opportunities for professional growth for field staff.
• Work closely with the Field Operations Manager in the oversight, day-to-day scheduling, and planning of the Land Stewardship Department.
• Actively participate in the co-leadership of the Land Stewardship department and manage its employees while also supervising contractors, volunteers, and interns.
• Develop and manage budgets related to land management & restoration.
• Pursue grant applications as warranted.
• Manage the evaluations, time-off approval, and professional development of two FTEs (the Assistant Land Stewardship Manager and Ranger).

Community Outreach 

• Work with engagement staff to develop and lead education and outreach programs for residents and visitors.
• Engage residents and volunteers in open space and wildlife conservation through volunteer opportunities and programs.
• Work with engagement and Land Stewardship staff to respond to resident questions and concerns regarding the status and management of Conservancy open space.
• Assist with developing education and wayfinding tools and materials including trail app updates, map production, and website additions.
• Represent the Conservancy to stakeholders; develop effective partnerships with relevant agencies and organizations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience in operations management, crew leadership, and all aspects of land stewardship management.
• Experience supervising staff and volunteers.
• Current on relevant issues and methods such as sustainable forestry, meadow and grassland management, wetland and water resources, wildlife management, and outdoor recreation.
• Hands-on experience in land management, arboriculture, and native and invasive species management.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a variety of groups, including staff, community members, HOA staff, contractors, and volunteers.
• Proficiency with MS Office, data and records management, GIS/GPS software and equipment; basic skills using ArcGIS software.
• Ability to work effectively in a small team environment to develop strategies, set goals, resolve problems, and implement plans. Ability to work effectively to manage work schedules, projects, budgets and contracts.  
• Proficiency in safely operating equipment and tools, including chain saws, mowers, tractors, hand tools and common forestry tools.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Natural Resources Management, Forestry or a related field or equivalent.
• At least 3 years professional experience in natural resource management (Certified Arborist and Forester credentials preferred).
• VA Certified Pesticide Applicator’s license or willingness to obtain
• Knowledge of Virginia (and preferably Northern Virginia) flora and fauna, ecological communities, and processes; strong field ID skills for native and invasive species.
• Good driving record and valid driver’s license.
• Successful completion of pre-employment background and reference checks.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain First Aid and CPR certifications within 4 months of employment.
• Must possess or be willing to obtain Red Card Certification.

Work Environment and Physical Demands 

• The Land Stewardship Manager will work on site at our field operations office in Aldie.
• The position requires extensive physical activity over extended periods of time, including walking over rough terrain, standing, stooping, pushing, pulling, heavy lifting, and operating equipment.
• Work is performed primarily outdoors in variable weather and work conditions, such as hot or cold temperatures, rain, show, dirt, dust, fumes, loud noises, and exposure to wildlife, insects and plants.
• Safety and personal protective gear must be worn as required to ensure that all activities are completed in a safe and effective manner.
• Some weekend and evening work required.

Salary and Benefits

The salary is between $70,000-$80,000 dependent upon experience with potential for an annual bonus. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) retirement plan with employee contribution, phone stipend, parental leave, sick leave, paid vacation, and holidays.