Fish and Wildlife Program Leader

Job Summary

Founded in 1946 and based in Nashville, Tennessee Wildlife Federation is one of the state’s oldest and most influential conservation organizations. For 80 years, we’ve worked to protect Tennessee’s wildlife, promote responsible stewardship of natural resources, and ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors. As a trusted voice for sportsmen, outdoor enthusiasts, and conservation advocates, we lead conservation efforts that make a real difference—and we’re looking for passionate people to help us continue that impact.

The Fish and Wildlife Program Leader position is located within the Federation’s newly created Institute for Conservation. The purpose of the Institute is to proactively develop and implement public policy that leverages public resources and private markets to achieve results at scale to improve Tennessee’s lands, waters, and wildlife. The Fish and Wildlife Program Leader will lead the day-to-day efforts of the Federation’s Institute in research, development, and the implementation of public policy related to Tennessee fish and wildlife and their habitats.

The Fish and Wildlife Program Leader will be the primary lead for all aspects of the work the Federation’s Institute engages in the area of fish and wildlife policy, including wildlife biology and management, habitat management, agriculture, hunting, angling, and other wildlife uses, etc. This work will primarily encompass leveraging existing research and coordinating with external experts in order to develop innovative solutions to Tennessee’s most significant fish and wildlife issues.

Location:  Nashville, TN

Job Responsibilities

Research

• Work with Federation Institute research staff to identify relevant research and information on those areas of fish and wildlife, their habitats, their management, hunting, angling, and other areas of interest or concern.
• Advise the DOCP and CEO on matters related to fish and wildlife management
• Work directly with Institute staff and external experts to develop innovative and effective solutions to fish and wildlife quality, quantity, and habitat problems.
• Help to recruit and collaborate with Institute Fellows in all areas of fish and wildlife research and conservation.
• Produce research products, including research reports and white papers, for publication through the Federation’s channels. 

Development of Solutions

• Work directly with the Director of Policy and CEO to create solutions to fish and wildlife issues and problems that can be developed into public policy approaches to achieve success at scale across Tennessee.
• Engage with local, state, and federal leaders on issues of importance to fish and wildlife, their quantity, and habitat.
• Engage with Institute Fellows in the development of solutions

Implementation and Advocacy

• Work with Federation colleagues to inform and communicate to Federation supporters and advocates our water program work and successes.
• Research, write, and produce communications to move solutions forward. This will include working closely with Federation communications staff, as well as outside experts serving as Institute Fellows.
• Represent the Federation at events, including speaking at relevant conferences, that are relevant to fish and wildlife management and fish and wildlife public policy

Other Duties

• Attend meetings to represent TWF and the Institute on projects and initiatives.
• Travel as directed to cover assignments.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Biology or related field, with 7+ years of professional experience.  Advanced degrees in Biology or a related field may substitute for professional experience.
• Strong working knowledge of fish and wildlife science and management, as well as general ecology and biology
• Ability to use ArcGIS and other computer mapping systems.
• An understanding of fish and wildlife policy and laws at the federal and state levels, with an understanding of regulatory programs around fish and wildlife.
• Proficient across Microsoft Office 365 and Google Suite.

Skills and Abilities

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, produce effective results, and meet deadlines; must be self-motivated, responsible, and have the ability to solve problems.
• Strong work ethic with the ability to reject setbacks and enthusiastically persist until goals are achieved.
• Professional, adaptable, and positive, with strong attention to detail and the ability to handle fast-paced, day-to-day challenges with composure—and a sense of humor.
• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, team environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment; Ability to shift priorities quickly and unexpectedly.
• Resourceful and innovative at tackling challenges in a timely manner.
• Approach work from the Federation’s point of view rather than a personal point of view.
• Must have a passion for the Federation’s mission.
• A valid TN driver’s license, including a good motor vehicle record, and appropriate automobile insurance

Additional Information

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, Short- and Long-Term Disability, Life, AD&D, Critical Illness, Accident
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) match up to 6%
• 13 company paid holidays plus the week between Christmas and New Year’s
• PTO (Vacation and Sick Time)
• Fridays off in July and mid-August

How to Apply

To Apply:  Submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples to View email address on cnemt.org

EEO Statement

Tennessee Wildlife Federation is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all persons regardless of age, disability, national origin, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran or military status, genetic information or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Tennessee Wildlife Federation is committed to workplace diversity.

Ethical Hunting, Angling and Outdoor Recreation Practices

Federation staff know and respect the game and fish pursued in the field and follow all related laws, familiarize themselves with wildlife in the area and behave accordingly. This likewise applies to hiking, camping and other outdoor activities that require responsible use of public resources. As an employee of the Federation, all employees are expected to follow all state and federal hunting and fishing guidelines and practice ethical and fair chase practices while executing or assisting with program events or in your personal outings afield.

Details

• Date Posted: August 24, 2026
• Type: Full-Time
• Job Function: Other
• Service Area: Environment
• Working Hours: 40 hrs/wk; M-F, 8:00am - 5:00pm (flexible)