Land Protection Coordinator

About Westmoreland Land Trust The Westmoreland Land Trust (WLT) is a nonprofit organization that exists to conserve and steward land in Westmoreland County of special ecological, cultural, or recreational value, for public benefit. Since 2008, WLT has permanently protected over 740 acres of land through purchase or donation. Flagship public-access properties include the 350-acre Saint Xavier Nature Preserve, Ackermann Nature Preserve, Meadowlark Nature and Art Park, and Twin Lakes Meadow. WLT also provides nature education programming and events at its properties and in Westmoreland County School Districts at no cost. Position Summary The Land Protection Coordinator assists with the identification, evaluation, and completion of land protection projects in Westmoreland County. Working closely with the Executive Director, board committees, and community partners, the Coordinator plays a key role in managing project details, maintaining landowner relationships, and advancing priority conservation opportunities. Key Responsibilities Land Protection Projects Support land protection projects from initial inquiry through closing Coordinate and lead the evaluation of prospective properties that are in alignment with identified priority areas Coordinate the completion of due diligence activities, including deed research, property appraisals, property surveys, phase 1 environmental assessments, title review, and more Prepare project summaries, maps, and board materials Maintain accurate project records in accordance with Land Trust Accreditation Commission standards Assist with completion of real estate transactions and coordination Landowner and Partner Engagement Support outreach to prospective landowners and maintain ongoing communications Work collaboratively with fellow conservation organizations, municipalities, and other partners on land protection projects Represent Westmoreland Land Trust at partner meetings and outreach events Mapping, Data, & Planning Assist with GIS mapping and property research Maintain project databases and tracking to ensure projects move forward on time Assist Land Stewardship staff in developing land protection and stewardship plans for new properties Grants & Organizational Support Assist with grant applications and reporting for land protection projects Support project budget implementation and tracking Contribute to board reports and communications Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, planning, real estate, geography, natural resources, law, public administration, or a related field — or equivalent professional experience. Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills; Ability to communicate effectively with landowners, partners, volunteers, public officials, and community stakeholders Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate project records and documentation Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with staff, board members, and committees Willingness to conduct field visits on uneven terrain and in varying weather conditions Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) Valid driver’s license and ability to travel often within the county Preferred Qualifications Experience in land conservation, real estate transactions, land use planning, environmental nonprofit work, or related field Familiarity with GIS mapping software (ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar) Experience with grant writing, reporting, or fundraising support Knowledge of Pennsylvania conservation programs, funding sources, or environmental regulations Experience preparing board materials, reports, or presentations Familiarity with property research, title review, surveys, or due diligence processes Experience working with volunteers Passion for conservation, stewardship, and community engagement in Westmoreland County Compensation & Benefits Salary: $54,000 – $58,000 Competitive Benefits Package, including: Medical insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance Employer-sponsored retirement plan with employer contribution Generous paid time off, holidays & STD Flexible work schedule Professional development opportunities #J-18808-Ljbffr Breathe Project