Job Description

Assistant Conservation Project Manager

NHQ, Memphis, TN / Full-Time

Ducks Unlimited, Inc., (DU) is seeking a full-time Assistant Conservation Project Manager. The position will be based at DU’s National Headquarters in Memphis, TN, and will be provided with a range of opportunities to contribute to DU’s waterfowl and wetland conservation mission. The position will report to and work collaboratively with DU’s Manager of Conservation Projects on opportunities that address DU’s needs. This role will combine both project management and administrative responsibilities to support DU’s conservation programs and initiatives.

Ducks Unlimited, Inc., is North America’s leader in waterfowl and wetlands conservation. Since its founding in 1937, DU has conserved more than 18 million acres of wetlands and associated waterfowl habitats across the continent. DU currently employs over 700 people nationwide.

Responsibilities: The successful applicant will provide project management and administrative support to DU’s national conservation staff. In addition, they will assist with cross-disciplinary conservation projects that may require coordination with national and regional conservation staff, as well as staff in other departments. Ultimately, these efforts will enhance DU’s ability to protect, restore, and conserve wetlands for the benefit of waterfowl, wetland-dependent wildlife, and society.

This position is a hybrid role that offers dynamic and varied work experience. It’s an ideal opportunity for someone looking to grow in the conservation field, as you’ll gain exposure to both day-to-day operations and larger, impactful projects. As the role evolves, there may be opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, allowing you to apply and develop your skills in alignment with the organization’s needs.

Project Management and Coordination 

• Work closely with the Manager of Conservation Projects to provide project coordination and assist in the planning, execution, and monitoring of cross-disciplinary conservation projects
• Serve as the National Headquarters liaison for onboarding new Conservation staff hires and collaborating with regional leads to ensure a seamless and efficient onboarding experience for all new conservation employees
• Responsible for coordinating all aspects of conservation event planning at national conferences like the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and the North American Wildlife and Natural Resources conferences
• Assist in coordinating deadlines for conservation communications materials to ensure their timely production and distribution.
• Provide project management support for emerging DU initiatives, including conducting research to assist with development and implementation
• Organize and prepare information for meetings, presentations, and reports
• Coordinate with internal departments, partners, and stakeholders to ensure seamless project operations and communication flow.

Administrative Support 

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Chief Conservation Officer, National Director of Conservation, Manager of Conservation Projects and other national DU staff
• Manage calendars, schedule meetings, and coordinate appointments for senior conservation staff as needed
• Coordinate travel arrangements and itineraries for senior conservation staff as needed
• Perform other duties as required to support the effective operation of DU’s national conservation team

WORK CONDITIONS: Primarily based in an office setting at DU’s National Headquarters in Memphis, TN.

REMOTE WORK: Remote work is not available for this position.

Qualifications: Given the variety of work opportunities for this position, applicants from diverse experiential and academic backgrounds are encouraged, although those with formal training in areas related to natural resources conservation and management will be most competitive.

Experience and Education 

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of and interest in a career in natural resources conservation and management; waterfowl and wetlands interest preferred

Technological Proficiencies: 

• Experience with Microsoft suite, including Excel, Word, Teams, and PowerPoint required

Interpersonal Skills

• Self-motivated and capable of working independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to work collaboratively in interdepartmental teams among conservation, science, communications, and fundraising staff
• Appreciation and practice in critical thinking and a willingness to learn

Communication Skills

• Ability to communicate effectively through oral, written, and other forms of media

APPLICATION: Please fill out the application materials on ADP and attach a resume and cover letter.

DUCKS UNLIMITED, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, military status, disability, age, or genetic information except where age or gender is a bona fide occupational qualification as allowed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, age (40 or over), disability (physical, mental or visual), genetic information, marital status (including registered domestic partnership status), military and veteran status, immigration status, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.