Location
Glasgow, Montana with potential to work from a home office in other Region 6 towns following training. These are small rural towns (<5,000) in northern Montana with basic medical and shopping facilities. Billings and Great Falls are within a 3–4-hour drive. The area offers abundant recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing on public lands such as the Missouri River Breaks, Nelson Reservoir, and Fort Peck Reservoirs.
Hours
Full time, with regular travel within the area of responsibility on a weekly basis to meet landowners, partnering agencies, and complete site visits in all seasons and weather conditions.
Salary
Negotiable
About the Role
The Habitat Conservation Lease Specialist will support a landscape-scale Habitat Conservation Lease (HCL) program aimed at conserving up to 500,000 acres of grassland and wetland habitat over the next five years in FWP Region 6. The position involves working on large-scale habitat conservation of grasslands and sagebrush grasslands across a mix of public and private lands largely tied to agriculture (farming/ranching). The Specialist will develop and deliver HCLs, review and approve proposed leases, monitor compliance, and serve as a key point of contact representing the department with landowners, sportspersons, state and federal agencies, NGOs, and the public. Responsibilities include conducting site visits, completing environmental assessments, facilitating public meetings, preparing lease agreements and project summaries, promoting the program to expand landowner interest and constituent support, and seeking opportunities to enhance program delivery or support habitat restoration related to HCLs. The role requires a balance of outdoor fieldwork and office duties such as GIS mapping, proposal development, contract coordination, and communication with partners. Problem solving and strong communication skills are essential.
Experience
Combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, range science, fish and wildlife management, animal ecology, biology, or a closely related field and related work experience. Alternatively, at least 5 years of work experience specifically related to the skills and abilities needed for this position. Combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
About you
Ability to effectively work with private landowners, sportspersons, state and federal agencies, NGOs, and other members of the public. Strong problem solving and communication skills. Willingness to travel regularly within the region and work outdoors in all weather conditions. Motivated to promote conservation efforts and build positive relationships with stakeholders.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field preferred but not required if equivalent experience is demonstrated. Successful completion of a background investigation. Commitment to diversity and inclusion, with encouragement for women and minorities to apply.
