Open Space STL

Compensation

Full Description

Organization Overview: Open Space STL is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the permanent protection of natural areas, working lands, and open spaces for the benefit of current and future generations. We collaborate with landowners, communities, and conservation partners to protect vital landscapes through conservation easements, fee-title acquisitions, stewardship, and community engagement. Position Summary: The Conservation Project Manager is responsible for managing all aspects of land conservation transactions, including conservation easements and fee-simple acquisitions. This position works closely with landowners, agency partners, attorneys, and internal staff to complete complex real estate transactions that align with the organization’s mission and conservation goals. The ideal candidate has strong project management and communication skills, a solid understanding of real estate and conservation practices, and a passion for land protection. This position will also assist with conservation planning and GIS for Open Space STL’s other community-based conservation projects. Key Responsibilities: Transaction Management • Manage multiple simultaneous land conservation projects from initial inquiry to closing, including conservation easements and fee-title acquisitions. • Coordinate due diligence activities such as appraisals, title reviews, environmental assessments, boundary surveys, and baseline documentation reports. • Draft and manage transaction timelines and budgets. • Maintain organized and accurate records for all projects in internal systems. Landowner Engagement • Build and maintain strong relationships with private landowners, explaining conservation options, tax benefits, and land trust procedures. • Guide landowners through the process of conserving their land in a respectful, mission-aligned manner. Legal & Regulatory Compliance • Collaborate with legal counsel to draft and finalize conservation easements, purchase agreements, and other legal documents. • Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, Land Trust Alliance Standards and Practices, and applicable federal/state funding requirements. • Coordinate with governmental agencies and funding partners, including preparation and submission of grant applications and reporting. Partnership & Outreach • Represent the organization with public agencies, community stakeholders, and conservation partners. • Assist in the development and negotiation of cooperative conservation projects involving multiple stakeholders. • Outreach to potential landowners for new conservation easements or land acquisition projects. Internal Coordination • Work collaboratively with stewardship, legal, and development teams to ensure project success and long-term conservation value. • Provide project updates and briefings to staff leadership, board members, and funders as needed. • Provide GIS and conservation planning support to other internal programs as needed Qualifications: Required: • Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural resources, real estate, planning, or a related field. • Minimum 3–5 years of relevant experience in land conservation, real estate, or project management. • Demonstrated experience managing conservation easement and/or land acquisition transactions. • Knowledge of conservation easement law, real estate due diligence, and land protection tools. • Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. • Ability to manage multiple complex projects with attention to detail and deadlines. • Proficiency in Google Workspace and GIS mapping tools (e.g., ArcGIS). Preferred: • Experience working with non-profit land trusts or public conservation agencies. • Familiarity with state and federal conservation funding programs (e.g., LWCF, NRCS, state land trust grants). • Advanced degree or certification in real estate, natural resource management, or conservation planning. • Knowledge of Land Trust Alliance Standards and Practices. Work Environment & Conditions: • Office-based and remote/hybrid work. • Occasional travel required for site visits, meetings, and events. • Ability to hike across undeveloped terrain and work in variable weather conditions. Compensation & Benefits: • Competitive salary commensurate with experience. • Health, dental, and vision insurance. • Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays. • Retirement plan with employer contribution. • Professional development support. To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Bonnie Harper, Executive Director (bonnie@openspacestl.org). Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.