Application Guide
How to Apply for Private Lands Forester
at American Bird Conservancy
🏢 About American Bird Conservancy
American Bird Conservancy is unique for its science-based, results-driven approach to bird conservation across the Americas, focusing on preventing extinctions and eliminating threats. Working here means contributing to tangible conservation outcomes through partnerships and on-the-ground habitat work, ideal for those passionate about avian-focused environmental action.
About This Role
This Private Lands Forester role involves delivering U.S. Farm Bill programs to Pennsylvania landowners, developing conservation plans with GIS maps, and implementing practices to improve forest health and wildlife habitat. It's impactful because it directly translates policy into on-the-ground conservation, enhancing habitat for birds and other wildlife across private landscapes.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve visiting a Pennsylvania landowner's property to conduct forest stand examinations using SILVAH, collecting data on timber types and wildlife habitat, then developing a conservation plan with GIS maps. This could be followed by coordinating with NRCS on Farm Bill program delivery and planning habitat improvements like forest health treatments or riparian buffers.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who American Bird Conservancy Is Looking For
- Has a Bachelor's in forestry/wildlife with 2+ years of technical forestry experience OR a Master's with forest habitat management emphasis
- Proficient with SILVAH or similar forest stand analysis software for data-driven conservation planning
- Demonstrates hands-on experience with Farm Bill programs and working directly with private landowners
- Possesses strong GIS skills for creating detailed conservation maps and analyzing landscape data
📝 Tips for Applying to American Bird Conservancy
Highlight specific experience with U.S. Farm Bill programs, especially any work in Pennsylvania or similar regions
Detail your proficiency with SILVAH software and provide examples of forest stand analyses you've conducted
Emphasize any direct work with private landowners and your ability to develop conservation plans with GIS cover maps
Include measurable outcomes from past conservation projects (e.g., acres improved, habitat enhancements)
Tailor your resume to show knowledge of both forestry principles and wildlife habitat management, as ABC integrates both
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your experience with Farm Bill programs and private landowner engagement in conservation', 'Specific examples of using SILVAH or similar software for forest stand analysis and habitat planning', "How your background aligns with ABC's mission to conserve birds through habitat improvement", 'Your ability to develop GIS-based conservation plans and work in Pennsylvania landscapes']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → ABC's specific bird conservation priorities in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region
- → The organization's partnerships with agencies like NRCS for Farm Bill implementation
- → Recent ABC projects involving private lands forestry and habitat restoration
- → ABC's science-based approach and how it informs on-the-ground conservation work
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to demonstrate specific Farm Bill program experience or SILVAH proficiency
- Generic conservation statements without linking to bird habitat or forestry practices
- Overlooking the Pennsylvania-specific focus and private lands aspect of the role
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to American Bird Conservancy!