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Position Title: Conservation Education Manager
Location: Teller Wildlife Refuge, Corvallis, MT
Employment Type: Full-time
Reports To: Executive Director

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Conservation Education Manager is responsible for the strategic development, implementation, and management of Teller Wildlife Refuge’s conservation education programs. This leadership role focuses on fostering meaningful connections between people and the natural world through hands-on, place-based learning experiences. The Conservation Education Manager collaborates with schools, conservation organizations, and community partners to create impactful programming for youth and adults while overseeing the program’s growth, funding, and operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Development & Implementation

  • Design, implement, and lead a wide range of conservation education programs, including youth and adult workshops, school-based initiatives, summer camps, hunting and wildlife education, and community engagement events, including Teller’s annual Youth Expo held in May each year.

  • Develop and maintain long-term relationships with partners and participants to ensure program sustainability.

  • Oversee curriculum development and implementation for Conservation in the Classroom, ensuring that programs are scientifically accurate, engaging, and aligned with conservation priorities.

  • Expand program reach by creating new educational opportunities and tailoring experiences to meet the needs of different audiences.

Partnership & Outreach

  • Lead the continued development and execution of the Conservation in the Classroom program, coordinating with partner organizations and educators to provide a unified, science-based conservation curriculum.

  • Build and maintain partnerships with over 40 conservation organizations, including governmental agencies, NGOs, and private entities.

  • Represent Teller Wildlife Refuge at public events, professional conferences, and community meetings to promote conservation education initiatives.

  • Foster collaboration among program participants and partners, resolving conflicts and ensuring effective communication.

Budget & Administrative Oversight

  • Track and manage an annual budget for conservation education programs.

  • Maintain detailed records of program participation, impact metrics, and grant reporting requirements.

  • Oversee the hiring, training, and supervision of contract staff and seasonal employees, ensuring efficient program execution.

Facility, Resources & Infrastructure Development

  • Maintain and improve education room facility for community and educational use.

  • Continue development and management of the Teller Trail Project to maintain and reroute public-use trails and install interpretive signage.

  • Catalog, maintain, and advertise educational resources for community use.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, conservation, natural resource management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

  • Proven experience in designing, expanding, and managing environmental education programs.

  • Strong leadership and project management skills, with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships.

  • Experience with grant writing and budget management.

  • Knowledge of Montana’s ecosystems, wildlife conservation practices, and outdoor education methodologies.

  • Understanding of Outdoor Recreation and the role it plays in Conservation Education practices.

  • Strong public speaking, facilitation, and interpersonal communication skills.

  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and lead hands-on environmental activities.

  • Experience managing volunteers, seasonal staff, or contract educators.

  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master’s degree in environmental education, conservation, natural resource management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

  • Experience working with K-12 school districts.

  • Experience developing formalized education curricula, including Next Generation Science Standards and Montana State Standards.

  • Familiarity with hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation as tools for conservation education.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position involves a combination of office and field-based work. Time will be divided between a standard office setting and outdoor environments across the refuge. Outdoor work may include leading programs, walking or hiking on uneven terrain, and working in variable weather conditions. The ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds is required. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are necessary for travel between sites and community events. Some evening and weekend hours may be required for special events or programs.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Salary: $50,000-$60,000, commensurate with experience.

Benefits package, including:

  • Flex Plan- $600 annual employer contribution- eligible January 1

  • Medical/Dental Plan- eligible after 90 days

  • Paid Time Off- 20 days per year

  • Seasonal four-day work week (November 1-March 30) annually

  • Retirement- 401(K) Match up to 3% of salary

  • Mileage reimbursement for Teller-related vehicle use

  • Opportunities for professional development and training.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to Heather Tellock at heather@tellerwildlife.org by November 10, 2025