Job Type: Full-time, on-site
Location: The Longleaf Alliance - Southeast Virginia
Pay: $60,000-$65,000/year
Application Deadline: March 27, 2026
Description:
The Longleaf Alliance (TLA) is seeking a skilled and motivated forester to advance longleaf pine habitat conservation and outreach strategies in the northern range of the longleaf pine ecosystem. The Longleaf Alliance is a non-profit organization that works throughout the Southeastern U.S. to guide longleaf restoration, stewardship, and conservation using science-based outreach, partnership engagement, and on-the-ground assistance.
The Longleaf Forester will represent TLA to external audiences in Southeast Virginia and Northeast North Carolina, conduct outreach activities, deliver technical assistance, and advance other longleaf strategies on behalf of TLA and the Longleaf Cooperators of Virginia (LCOV). LCOV is recognized as one of the Local Implementation Teams (LITs) identified in America’s Longleaf Restoration Initiative (ALRI).
Overview of Duties:
The Longleaf Forester plays a key role in advancing the strategic initiatives identified by TLA and the LCOV. This professional will be directly responsible for coordinating and executing outreach events and activities, developing a landowner-led cooperative, growing the number of landowners engaging and participating in longleaf restoration efforts, providing timely and science-based responses to requests for assistance through a variety of methods, and supporting other related goals, including establishing an internet presence for the LCOV and increasing general awareness about prescribed fire. Training and outreach will be accomplished through in-person events and activities, brochures and other written material, webinars, website development, and articles for publication in The Longleaf Leader. The Longleaf Forester will also have opportunities to participate in hands-on ecological restoration projects led by LCOV partners.
Required Qualifications:
Applicants must have a college degree in forestry and at least two years of experience in outreach, partnership building or coordination, and the management and restoration of longleaf pine. Applicants must have a demonstrated passion for the longleaf ecosystem, an excellent personal and professional reputation, and credibility in the Southeastern US conservation community. A demonstrated ability to create effective relationships with staff, partners, landowners, donors, state and federal agencies, NGOs, and other key constituencies is essential. This position requires strong initiative, organizational and people skills, and excellent written and oral communication skills. Presentation and engagement skills are a must. Leadership will be required for a variety of outreach events. The ideal candidate would have a working knowledge of and/or experience in longleaf forest management and ecology, in the training and teaching of natural resource conservation, and in the broader role of forestland management in the Southeastern United States.
Preferred Qualifications:
An advanced degree in a compatible field is desired, and a registered/certified forester is preferred.
Fire management experience.
ArcGIS skills and website management skills.
Overview of Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
College degree in forestry, with an additional degree in a complimentary field preferred.
Applicants must have at least 2 years of experience in outreach and the management and restoration of longleaf pine ecosystems.
Ability to collaborate successfully with partner organizations.
Ability to independently organize and lead complex outreach and training events, as well as work cooperatively as part of large teams.
Exceptional logistical skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Teach and compellingly reach audiences from all backgrounds and experience levels.
Independently manage timely reporting to funding organizations and updating accomplishments.
Meticulous in organization, recordkeeping, and project management.
Demonstrate dedication, integrity, and commitment beyond question.
Proven ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and supporters.
Computer fluency, especially in the full MS Office suite.
Commitment to lifelong learning and advancement of skills.
Demonstrated initiative and decision-making.
Impeccable integrity, judgment, commitment, and discretion.
The physical requirements of the tasks of this position can be strenuous, requiring lifting and carrying of items up to 50 lbs.; the position also requires outdoor work at times in weather conditions ranging from ideal to arduous.
Maintain accurate record keeping and timely reporting
Compensation:
$60-65K depending upon experience. Overall compensation includes additional benefits, including paid time off (PTO) and sick leave time, Simple IRA, and a health care stipend. Funding has been secured for this position for three years, and the position will continue following that period as additional funding is secured.
Location and Travel:
This position is a remote role, with office space provided by The Nature Conservancy’s Virginia Pinelands Program in the Town of Waverly, Virginia. An effective presence will be most focused on the Southeast Coastal Plain of Virginia within the longleaf range, as agreed upon by the candidate and The Longleaf Alliance, to support the successful accomplishment of the role. This job will at times require some evening and weekend activities (especially planning and after-action record keeping). Applicant must be willing and able to travel extensively across southeast Virginia. Occasional travel to other states may be required throughout the year for staff meetings, training, and conferences. Applicant must have a driver’s license.
How to Apply:
Candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, resume, and at least three references by March 27, 2026. Send application materials to lisa@longleafalliance.org as one PDF file labeled with your first and last name (e.g., RobSmith.pdf). Questions can also be directed to Lisa Lord, Vice President for Operations, by email.
