The Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) is one of the nation’s most dynamic and successful local land trusts, and since its founding in 1977 has protected more than 75,000 acres of open space along the Skyline Ridge, the San Francisco Peninsula, the Santa Cruz Mountain range and along the San Mateo County coast.
We are seeking an energetic team player to join POST’s Land Transactions team
Under the supervision of the Director of Land Transactions, the Conservation Project Manager is responsible for managing various aspects of real estate transactions and conservation planning to further POST’s land conservation projects.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Investigates and analyzes target conservation properties, and identifies and helps to prioritize project opportunities.
Cultivates relationships and negotiates with landowners and their representatives and with public agencies and conservation buyers.
Prepares and reviews acquisition and transfer documents (i.e., purchase agreements, gift deeds, letters, conservation easements, appraisals, environmental assessments, exchange agreements, title documents, and escrow instructions, etc.).
Hires and manages consultants of varying expertise, such as environmental scientists, surveyors, attorneys and appraisers.
Coordinates implementation of acquisition and transfer activities, including title review and other due diligence tasks, closing oversight, funding distribution and acceptance.
Supports and coordinates larger conservation programs where appropriate.
Provides guidance to Land Associate and Land Assistant with density analysis, property research, real estate market research, etc. as needed.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL
2-4 years of directly related work experience.
Experience with land trust real estate transactions and conservation easements preferred.
Ability to effectively collaborate with diverse groups.
Ability to manage multiple complex projects.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Highly self-motivated.
Computer literate.
Outstanding planning and analytical skills.
Experience with project budgets and accounting.
Familiarity with local geographic area.
College degree required, graduate degree preferred.
Knowledge of current tax and conservation laws.
Knowledge of natural resources.
Valid California Driver’s License.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer, and strength to lift and carry materials weighing up to 20 pounds; vision is required to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech are required to communicate in person and over the telephone.
Must be able to drive.
Must be able to hike rough terrain.
This position requires occasional evening and weekend work.
POST is located in downtown Palo Alto, conveniently located for public transit.
POST is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from people of under-represented groups who will contribute to the diversity of its staff.
How to apply
Please email your resume along with a cover letter explaining how you personally connect to POST’s mission and why this position is a good fit with your career objectives including the words CONSERVATION PROJECT MANAGER/Code 0215 in the subject line to: hiring@openspacetrust.org
No phone calls please.