Center Manager - Strawberry Plains

This position will work closely with our science and conservation teams to identify and implement research and conservation projects at the site. They will also work in the local community to establish relationships with stakeholders such as state and regional government, businesses, and community groups that are partners and/or supporters of Strawberry Plains Audubon Center (SPAC). They will coordinate and collaborate with other staff to organize annual events like the Hummingbird festival at the Center and respond to conservation issues of local and regional concern. They are responsible for the care and maintenance of our physical facilities and equipment located at the Center.  

Essential Functions

• Working with the Senior Director, Conservation and the Vice President, Delta Region, guide the Center’s mission, programs, and operations in alignment with Audubon’s strategic plan.
• Direct conservation, restoration, research, and habitat projects at SPAC in collaboration with the SPAC Restoration Ecologist and Facilities Technician.
• Working with regional leadership, design and implement education and outreach programs for diverse audiences, including signature events like the annual Hummingbird Festival.
• In collaboration with Audubon colleagues, foster relationships with local communities, officials, landowners, and environmental partners to promote conservation and education.
• Secure funding through grants, donor cultivation, and development strategies in coordination with Audubon Delta and development staff.
• Working with the Director of Strategic Operations, Delta, and field staff at the Center, create and manage annual budgets, ensuring sound financial practices and alignment with Center goals.
• Work with the Audubon Delta leadership and partners team to provide support in building a narrative to create and implement a plan for managing Strawberry Plains’ history and contributions with an emphasis on from former indigenous and enslaved residents.
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff; foster a positive, growth-oriented work environment.
• Oversee upkeep of buildings, grounds, and equipment; enforce policies on land use and wildlife control.
• Serve as an Audubon ambassador, maintain compliance with policies, and represent the Center to the public and partners.
• Adhere to organizational policies and procedures.
• Maintain working knowledge of Audubon’s strategic plan, priorities, and programs nationwide.
• Answer general inquiries from the public about Strawberry Plains and Audubon.
• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
• Other job-related duties as assigned. 

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences or related field required.  A combination of education and experience will be considered.  
• Five years’ experience in land/facility management, wildlife conservation, and/or ecological restoration, or similar equivalent experience.
• Three years’ experience managing staff required.
• Must have in depth knowledge of the geography and landscape of Northern Mississippi including plant ecology, soil science, hydrology, restoration ecology, land management/conservation, and fire ecology and management.
• Demonstrated ability to partner with key stakeholders such as community and agency personnel.
• Strong project management skills, including but not limited to setting and implementing effective goals and objectives, problem-solving, time management, creating and maintaining collaborations with other organizations, preparing reports, etc.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentations, and the ability to build consensus among a wide array of individuals.
• Able to use and maintain a variety of field and laboratory equipment such as audio and video recording devices, still photography equipment, land survey equipment, GPS devices, water metering devices, sampling equipment, etc.
• Ability to manage and operate a wide variety of equipment necessary to conduct work on Center grounds. This includes but is not limited tractors, turf equipment, ATV’s and more.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Familiarity with ArcView/GIS software a plus.
• Self‐motivated and willing to work in a flexible non‐structured environment.
• Comfort and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrains. Able to physically lift up to 75 lbs. with or without accommodation.
• Flexible availability with a willingness to work evenings and weekends if needed.
• Must have valid Driver’s License in good standing.
• Interest in and commitment to the mission of the organization.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

For more information:

https://audubon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Audubon/details/Center-Manager--Strawberry-Plains_JR782