
The Watershed Restoration Engineer will work collaboratively with technical specialists from TNC, the USFS, other agencies, NGOs, and private consultants including hydrologists, biologists, engineers, recreation managers, and others as necessary. This position coordinates with key partners and external relations with respect to aquatic restoration programs. They may also serve as the project liaison with city, county, state, and federal agencies. They will serve as Technical Monitor on project implementation - administering and evaluating contractor efforts and assessing technical progress in relation to the established schedule and specifications. Assures contractor performance complies with the plans and specifications required in the contract. Consults with contractor personnel to resolve difficult and complex, unforeseen problems and latent conditions that develop during the project. They will provide oversight of third-party project preparation and implementation, as well as administration of A & E contracts. They may advise conservation teams on designing and conducting experiments. They may lead a program or project relative to conservation planning, research and stewardship. They collaborate with other scientists and institutions to enhance Conservancy practices.
The Watershed Restoration Engineer provides technical and scientific support and leadership as a subject matter resource (SMR). The position will provide technical support to a multi-agency watershed restoration in partnership with the George Washington – Jefferson National Forest. They will perform project development and implementation activities including watershed analysis, stream and road-stream crossing assessment, survey, design, and preparation of construction drawings and contracts. The project portfolio will focus significantly on road-stream crossing restoration for Aquatic Organism Passage using U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Stream Simulation Design methodology. Other project work is expected to include channel and floodplain restoration through large wood augmentation, natural channel design techniques, dam removal, road realignment, and more.
This position will be based out of the Alleghany Highlands Program office in Lexington Virginia with the expectation that the staff would report to the office one to two days per week and reside somewhere in or near western Virginia where the office and field work are located.
This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $95,000 - $118,000. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.

Air, water, food, shelter, income: nature sustains every aspect of our lives. That's why protecting and conserving nature isn't just a matter of common sense. It's the smartest investment we can make.
Since our founding in 1951, The Nature Conservancy has harnessed the power of nature to help solve our planet’s most challenging problems. And while the stakes are high, so is our resolve: to create a world where everyone thrives alongside nature for generations to come.
We do this by working hand in hand with communities around the world. By committing to a science-based, non-partisan approach that’s stood the test of time. And by bringing people together, from all walks of life, to find common ground in nature.