Public Engagement Director

“Working to protect, enhance and restore the native biodiversity and ecosystem values of

the Tejon Ranch and Tehachapi Range for the benefit of California’s future generations.”

The Tejon Ranch Conservancy is a nationally accredited nonprofit land trust based in Bakersfield, California, dedicated to conserving the extraordinary biodiversity and ecological integrity of Tejon Ranch and the Tehachapi Range, one of California’s most ecologically important landscape linkages. Established in 2008 as part of a landmark conservation agreement protecting nearly 240,000 acres of Tejon Ranch, the Conservancy works in partnership with the Tejon Ranch Company, public agencies, scientists, and community organizations to advance science, stewardship, public access, and education across this regionally significant landscape.

The Conservancy manages conservation programs across one of the most biologically rich regions in California, situated at the convergence of the Sierra Nevada, the Transverse Range, the Mojave Desert, and Central Valley ecosystems. Through its work, the Conservancy supports long-term habitat protection, ecological research, restoration initiatives, and carefully managed public engagement programs that allow people to experience and learn from this remarkable landscape.

The Conservancy is seeking a full-time Public Engagement Director to report to the Executive Director and help lead the Conservancy’s public-facing programs, partnerships, communications, and engagement initiatives. This director-level role will work to strengthen the Conservancy’s relationships with the public, community partners, and supporters while expanding awareness of the Conservancy’s mission and programs across the wider Southern California region.

The Public Engagement Director will oversee the Conservancy’s public engagement initiatives, including management of public access and education programs, event marketing and social media, newsletters and communications with stakeholders, and the Conservancy’s growing membership and volunteer programs. The position will also play an important role in developing philanthropic relationships and supporting fundraising efforts that sustain and expand Conservancy programming.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Public Engagement Director will help cultivate partnerships, build public awareness of the Conservancy’s work, and develop engagement opportunities that connect people to the landscape while supporting the Conservancy’s long-term conservation goals. The position will direct the implementation of public access and education programs and projects, while assisting with managing and mentoring program staff, volunteers, and docents.

The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to successfully coordinate with other Conservancy staff, the Board of Directors, community partners, the public, and current and potential donors, serving as a key representative of the Conservancy’s mission and programs in a financially sustainable, strategic, and professional manner.

Strong project management, organizational leadership, relationship-building, and staff supervisory skills are essential for this position.

DUTIES

The Public Engagement Director will work closely with the Executive Director to plan, fundraise, and implement the Conservancy’s public-facing programs and projects. The Director will oversee the day-to-day implementation of these initiatives and manage the daily responsibilities of the Public Access and Education Manager. This role will coordinate closely with the Executive Director, Tejon Ranch Company staff, and the Conservancy Board on program and project implementation, including participating in and staffing relevant Board committee meetings and supporting Board initiatives as needed. The Public Engagement Director will oversee monthly public access planning, event marketing and social media communications, trip logistics, and post-event outreach, ensuring that the Conservancy’s programs and communications effectively engage members, partners, and the broader public. The position will also manage and expand the Conservancy’s volunteer program and membership program.

In addition, the Director will support administrative and operational functions in coordination with other Conservancy staff and will play an important role in strengthening partnerships and philanthropic engagement that support Conservancy programs. The Public Engagement Director will lead or support trips for members of the public and donors and will work with the Executive Director on associated program plans, budgets, fundraising efforts, and grant applications.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Public Engagement Director must be a collaborative, organized, and highly motivated professional who works well with staff, volunteers, the Board of Directors, Tejon Ranch Company staff, community partners, and members of the public. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and the ability to represent the Conservancy professionally and engagingly. This position requires excellent organizational and project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining careful attention to detail and consistent follow-through. The Director must be comfortable interacting with a wide range of audiences, including volunteers, community partners, donors, and members of the public. The ability to think on your feet, solve problems effectively, and maintain a welcoming and professional demeanor is essential.

Candidates should be comfortable working in a small, collaborative team environment and demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and a strong work ethic. Applicants must have proficiency with computers and common software platforms such as Microsoft Office, as well as familiarity with social media platforms and digital communications tools. Strong administrative skills, excellent organizational habits, and effective follow-up are important for success in this role. A minimum of five years of substantive and relevant professional experience is required. Experience working with nonprofit organizations, outdoor education/ conservation programs, public engagement initiatives, or volunteer programs is particularly valuable.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Tejon Ranch is approximately 45 miles south of the Conservancy’s office. The office is in Bakersfield. The successful applicant must have their own transportation to the office (but Conservancy vehicles are available for travel on the Ranch), a valid and clean driver’s license, and be able to work some nights and weekends. Please be aware that the position requires the ability to lead and/or support visitor experiences on the Ranch, in conjunction with other staff and volunteers, and such experiences can involve driving and hiking on dirt roads through rugged wilderness areas of the Tejon Ranch, including in periods of warmer and cooler temperatures. The successful candidate will be expected to complete Wilderness First Aid training. In addition, while not required for the position, positive consideration will be given for willingness to obtain a California Class C Commercial Driver’s License with Passenger endorsement at the Conservancy’s expense, to assist with driving Conservancy vehicles on the Ranch.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

$60,000 - $80,000/ year, commensurate with experience, with full medical, dental, and matched 401(k) retirement benefits.

HOW TO APPLY

The application period for this position will remain open until filled. To apply, submit a resume, a cover letter, and names/contact information for three references to:

Executive Director

Tejon Ranch Conservancy

The Tejon Ranch Conservancy does not and shall not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status. This is a non-smoking, harassment-free, and positive work environment.

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