Altar Valley Conservation Alliance (AVCA)
Tucson, Arizona
Full-Time | $30–35/hour
The Altar Valley Conservation Alliance (AVCA) is hiring a Conservation & Science Specialist to support the implementation, monitoring, and coordination of conservation projects across a 600,000-acre watershed in southern Arizona.
This full-time, Tucson-based position works closely with AVCA staff, the Board of Directors, and the Science Advisory Board to advance watershed-scale conservation, research, and restoration efforts.
Position Overview
The Conservation & Science Specialist will:
- Manage and implement conservation projects focused on grassland enhancement, habitat improvement, erosion control, soil health, infrastructure modifications, invasive species management, and large-landscape conservation
- Coordinate meetings and workshops with ranchers, land managers, researchers, students, contractors, and volunteers
- Lead field implementation and monitoring days
- Collect and analyze field data on vegetation, soils, water, wildlife, and other conservation metrics
- Use GIS tools, including Esri FieldMaps and ArcGIS Online, for data collection and mapping
- Support development of watershed-wide monitoring protocols and research projects
- Assist with grant development, administration, and reporting
Fieldwork occurs in remote desert environments, and candidates must be comfortable working long days outdoors in hot conditions.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree, or Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of relevant experience in natural resource management, range science, watershed conservation/restoration, wildlife biology, soil/water/environmental science, or a related field
- Experience with field-based scientific research and conservation project implementation
- Ability to use GIS products and ArcGIS Online
- Experience safely working full days in exposed desert environments
- Valid Arizona driver’s license and daily access to a vehicle
Compensation & Schedule
- W-2 position, approximately 40 hours/week with a flexible schedule
- $30–35/hour, depending on experience
- Paid federal holidays
- 80 hours of paid vacation annually
- 24 hours of sick leave per year
- Technology stipend
- Mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate
Work is primarily remote, with travel to project sites in Altar Valley expected 1–3 days per week in spring and fall (less frequently in summer).
How to Apply
Send the following materials to Sarah King, Executive Director:
- CV
- Cover letter
- Professional writing sample (scientific paper or field project report preferred)
- Contact information for three professional and/or personal references
Email: sarah@altarvalleyconservation.org
Website: www.altarvalleyconservation.org
Initial application review begins March 2, 2026. Position open until filled.