Conservation Botanist, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy

Position Overview Application Deadline: May 22, 2026 Salary: Starting at $57,500 per year Education Required: BS in conservation biology, environmental resource management, environmental science, or related field Experience Required: At least 3 years (or Master’s degree) Description The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is hiring a Conservation Botanist based at PA DCNR headquarters in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, starting after July 1, 2026 at a salary of $57,500 with applications due May 22, 2026. The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has worked to protect and restore the region’s exceptional natural places since 1932. The member-based nonprofit collaborates across cities and towns in Western Pennsylvania with thousands of members, partners, and volunteers to advance work in water, land, and life for wildlife, residents, and future generations. The Conservation Botanist supports data collection, assessment, and monitoring of rare plant species for the Pennsylvania Plant Conservation Alliance (PPCA), a program of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The role partners with the PPCA Coordinator, the WPC Botany Program Manager, and WPC Heritage Program Botanists through the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program (PNHP) partnership, and may include general botany inventory, research, and analysis to advance conservation of biologically significant plant populations and natural communities.

Responsibilities

• Collect, assess, and monitor data on rare plant species for the Pennsylvania Plant Conservation Alliance.
• Plan and implement project activities alongside the PPCA Coordinator, WPC Botany Program Manager, and Heritage Program Botanists.
• Conduct general botany inventories, research, and analysis on plant communities and ecological systems.
• Produce detailed reports and computerized maps from field data.
• Travel statewide with some evenings and occasional overnight stays.

Requirements

• BS degree in conservation biology, environmental resource management, environmental science, or related field (botany, ecology, etc.).
• Valid Class C Driver’s License.
• Ability to complete all physical requirements of the role with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to lift and carry 30+ pounds of gear during fieldwork.
• Stamina to conduct field investigations in rough terrain and adverse weather.
• Ability to navigate outdoors using GPS and a variety of maps.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in conservation biology, environmental resource management, environmental science, or related field, or Bachelor’s with 3 to 5 years of experience.
• Broad familiarity with flora and ecosystems of Pennsylvania, the mid-Atlantic, and the central Appalachian regions.
• Experience in plant conservation methods.
• Some experience with natural heritage methodology.
• Knowledge of conservation biology, restoration ecology, and ecological aspects of natural resource management with a focus on native flora.
• Computer literacy and familiarity with Windows-based programs and basic database and statistical software.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Experience with ArcGIS Tools, R Studio, and GPS.
• Sound decision-making and organizational skills.
• Strong oral communication and presentation skills for general public and peer audiences.
• Cooperative work ethic and strong interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule with some evenings and occasional overnight travel.

Additional Notes

• Based at the Rachel Carson State Office Building in Harrisburg, PA, with part-time telework option (must be inside Pennsylvania with secure high-speed internet).
• Benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance/AD&D, short- and long-term disability, 403(a) and 403(b) retirement plans with generous employer match, and EAP.
• WPC is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

How to Apply

Email [email protected] with the subject line “Conservation Botanist” by May 22, 2026. Required application materials:

• Cover letter.
• Resume.
• Salary requirements.

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