Job Overview
Preserve Manager TNC: Leading Conservation
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) actively seeks a dedicated Preserve Manager TNC to lead conservation efforts at the 7,800-acre Ordway Prairie Preserve, located near Leola, South Dakota. This region, often called North America’s “Duck Factory,” provides a vital breeding ground for waterfowl and also houses one of the Conservancy’s many bison herds. As a result, this pivotal role positions you at the heart of our conservation work in north-central South Dakota.
As our Preserve Manager TNC, you will provide day-to-day project management, leadership, and implementation for conservation projects within and around the Leola Hills landscape. The work will primarily take place at the Ordway Prairie Preserve, but you will also support other TNC land interests. We, therefore, look for a motivated, capable individual who thrives in a learning-based environment and can adapt to variable work duties, from office tasks to field labor. This is an exceptional career opportunity to join the world’s leading conservation organization.
Your Responsibilities as a Preserve Manager TNC
As a Preserve Manager TNC, you will perform tasks with minimal supervision and make independent decisions based on your analysis and experience. Your duties will include:
- Grazing and Livestock Management: You will assist with daily care for resident bison and other livestock; additionally, you will conduct annual roundups and assist with research projects and data collection.
- Facility and Equipment Management: You will safely operate and maintain various equipment (ATV/UTVs, chainsaws, vehicles, tractors) and infrastructure, including buildings, fences, corrals, and watering stations.
- Ecological Management: You will perform ecological tasks such as biological monitoring, invasive species control, grazing, and fire management. You will also develop and implement plans for controlling noxious weeds using chemical, biological, and mechanical methods.
- Partnership and Outreach: You will network with diverse groups, including landowners, conservation partners, government officials, donors, and the public. You will, moreover, recruit support for the Conservancy and publicize our projects.
- Leadership and Administration: You will develop and manage a budget, negotiate with vendors, and support fundraising efforts. Furthermore, you will recruit and lead diverse teams of staff or volunteers and ensure program compliance with all internal policies and external requirements.
This Preserve Manager TNC position will require irregular work hours, long days, and occasional travel with overnight stays at other locations within the Tri-State (MN-ND-SD) Chapter. We strongly suggest the Preserve Manager live within a reasonable distance from the preserve to respond to urgent issues in a timely manner. Housing for you and your immediate family is available for lease on the preserve.

Remote Preserve Manager TNC
What We’re Looking For in a Preserve Manager
We seek a professional who brings a combination of experience, skills, and passion for conservation.
Minimum Qualifications
- You have an AA/AS degree and 5 years of experience in natural resource management or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- You have supervisory or leadership experience.
- You have experience communicating with the public both in writing and verbally.
- You have experience operating and maintaining various types of equipment and facilities.
- You have experience with communication via written, spoken and graphical means in English and other relevant languages.
- You have experience using common software applications such as Word, Excel, web browsers, etc.
- You have experience in training.
Desired Qualifications (Opportunities for Growth)
- You have the ability and willingness to apply science to decision-making and to guide activities.
- You possess knowledge of ecological land management/restoration principles, including range management, wildlife management, invasive species ecology, livestock husbandry, and fire management.
- You have knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Northern Great Plains.
- You possess experience with GPS and GIS and data management.
- You have the ability to meet the qualifications of a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) and can pass an annual fitness test (carrying a 45-pound pack over 3 miles in 45 minutes or less).
- You can obtain required licenses or certifications, such as for first aid, CPR, and herbicide application.
Compensation & Benefits for a Preserve Manager
The starting pay for this Preserve Manager TNC role, for candidates based in the USA, generally falls within the range of $52,000 – $55,500. However, your specific pay will depend on your location, qualifications, skills, and experience.
TNC offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package. This includes health care benefits, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, and other work and life well-being benefits. We are proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports the health and well-being of our employees.
Apply here: https://unjobs.org/vacancies/1753830713359
Our Commitment to You
TNC’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment where every colleague feels a sense of belonging and value. We know we will only achieve our mission by hiring a diverse workforce that reflects the communities where we work. As a result, we welcome applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, and backgrounds.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, our commitment to diversity includes recognizing that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people from diverse backgrounds. The successful applicant for this Preserve Manager TNC role must meet the requirements of TNC’s background screening process. We will offer accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the primary work location for this Preserve Manager TNC role? A: The primary work location is the Ordway Prairie Preserve, near Leola, South Dakota. This position operates primarily from the preserve, but you will occasionally travel to other sites.
- Q: Will I need to live near the preserve? A: Yes, we strongly suggest you live within a reasonable distance from the preserve. This allows you to respond to urgent issues in a timely manner. Housing for the manager and their immediate family is available for lease on the preserve.
- Q: What is the salary range for this Preserve Manager position? A: The starting pay for candidates based in the USA is generally between $52,000 – $55,500. Your specific pay will be based on your location, qualifications, skills, and experience.
- Q: Do I need to meet all the desired qualifications to apply? A: No, you do not need to meet all the desired qualifications. We list them as areas where you will have opportunities for growth and professional development in this Preserve Manager TNC role.
- Q: What is the required physical fitness level for this job? A: This position can involve physically demanding circumstances, including working in variable weather and on difficult terrain. You must also be able to meet the qualifications of a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) and pass a fitness test (carrying a 45-pound pack over 3 miles in 45 minutes or less).
You might also be interested in:
Manager, Donor Communications & Engagement (US-Based) – Remote or NYC
New Job Alert
Never miss a chance!
Let us know your job expectations, so we can find you jobs better!
Recent Posts
- Negotiating Your Salary: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Paid What You’re Worth 15 May 2025
- Building Your Personal Brand: How to Shine in a Crowded Job Market 14 May 2025
- Ace the Interview: Your Guide to Mastering the Job Interview 14 May 2025
- Charting a New Course: Your Guide to a Successful Career Transition 14 May 2025
- Beyond the Resume: Crafting a Compelling LinkedIn Profile That Gets You Noticed 13 May 2025
- The Unseen Toolkit: Mastering NGO Essential Skills for Global Impact 13 May 2025