Application Guide
How to Apply for Senior Forest Ecologist
at The Wilderness Society
🏢 About The Wilderness Society
The Wilderness Society is a storied conservation organization with nearly a century of experience protecting America's wild places. Working here means contributing to science-based advocacy that shapes national policy, with a strong commitment to equity and community partnerships.
About This Role
As the Senior Forest Ecologist, you'll lead forest ecology research that directly informs advocacy and policy decisions. This role is pivotal in ensuring that TWS's conservation efforts are grounded in high-quality science, and you'll represent the organization as a national expert in forest ecology, wildfire, and climate.
💡 A Day in the Life
Your day might start with a virtual meeting with the Science team to discuss ongoing research, then you could spend hours analyzing data or writing a report. You might also present findings to policymakers or collaborate with partner organizations, balancing deep scientific work with advocacy outreach.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who The Wilderness Society Is Looking For
- Ph.D. in forest ecology, landscape ecology, or related field with 5+ years of post-graduate experience
- Expertise in wildfire ecology and climate change impacts on forests, with a strong publication record
- Proven ability to translate complex science into actionable policy recommendations for diverse audiences
- Commitment to integrating equity and inclusion into scientific research and team collaboration
📝 Tips for Applying to The Wilderness Society
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific research on wildfire and climate, not just general forest ecology
Showcase any experience working with advocacy organizations or translating science for policy, as this is a unique aspect of the role
Research TWS's current campaigns and science priorities, and mention how your expertise aligns in your application
Demonstrate your ability to work remotely and collaborate across teams, as this is a remote position
Include examples of how you've incorporated equity and inclusion into your scientific work, as TWS emphasizes this
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Highlight your specific expertise in wildfire and climate research, and how it applies to forest conservation', "Emphasize your experience in translating science for policy and advocacy, showing you understand TWS's mission", "Mention any collaborative projects with communities or stakeholders, aligning with TWS's commitment to partnerships", "Express your passion for protecting wild places and your alignment with TWS's values"]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review TWS's current strategic plan and science priorities, especially regarding forest health and wildfire
- → Look into TWS's recent reports or publications on forest ecology to understand their stance and methods
- → Learn about TWS's history and key campaigns, such as protecting the Tongass or Roadless Rule
- → Check TWS's website for any blog posts or press releases from the Science team to get a sense of their work
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't submit a generic cover letter that doesn't mention wildfire or climate, as these are specific requirements
- Avoid focusing only on academic research without showing how you can apply it to advocacy
- Don't overlook the remote aspect – emphasize your self-motivation and communication skills for remote work
📅 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 The Wilderness Society!