Application Guide
How to Apply for Southeast Region Lands Project Manager
at American Battlefield Trust
🏢 About American Battlefield Trust
The American Battlefield Trust is the nation's largest non-profit battlefield preservation organization, having protected nearly 63,000 acres of Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War battlefields across 25 states. Working here means directly contributing to the preservation of America's most consequential historical landscapes for future generations, combining a passion for history with tangible conservation outcomes.
About This Role
As the Southeast Region Lands Project Manager, you will lead land preservation projects across the southeastern U.S., including Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Kentucky, and the Carolinas. You'll work hands-on with landowners, partners, and government agencies to secure conservation easements and fee simple transactions, ensuring critical battlefield land is protected in perpetuity.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve a morning call with a landowner in Tennessee to discuss a potential easement, followed by drafting a grant report for a recently completed acquisition in Georgia. In the afternoon, you might coordinate with a state agency on a funding application, then review title documents for a property in Virginia, all while managing your schedule from your home office.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who American Battlefield Trust Is Looking For
- Experienced in land conservation, real estate transactions, or historic preservation, with a proven track record of closing complex deals involving conservation easements or fee simple acquisitions.
- Strong knowledge of the Southeast region's geography, history, and key Civil War, Revolutionary War, or War of 1812 battlefields.
- Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, capable of building trust with landowners, government officials, and partner organizations.
- Self-motivated and organized, able to manage multiple projects remotely while working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Familiarity with grant funding sources (e.g., federal, state, and local grants) and experience in preparing grant applications and reports.
📝 Tips for Applying to American Battlefield Trust
Tailor your resume to highlight specific land preservation projects you've managed, including acreage, funding sources, and conservation easement details—quantify your impact.
In your cover letter, explicitly mention your familiarity with the Southeast region and any direct experience with battlefields or historic sites there.
Research the American Battlefield Trust's recent projects and mention one or two that align with your experience, showing you've done your homework.
If you have experience with grant writing or government funding (e.g., LWCF, state grants), highlight it prominently, as it's crucial for this role.
Because the role is remote, emphasize your ability to work independently and manage travel schedules effectively, possibly mentioning any remote work experience.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Passion for historical preservation and the mission of the American Battlefield Trust, connecting your personal values to their work.', "Specific examples of land transactions you've completed, especially conservation easements or fee simple purchases, and the outcomes.", "Knowledge of the Southeast's battlefield history and the importance of preserving these sites for education and public enjoyment.", 'Your ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, from landowners to government agencies, and navigate complex negotiations.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review the American Battlefield Trust's website to understand their mission, recent preservation projects, and the specific battlefields they're focusing on in the Southeast.
- → Learn about the Trust's land preservation methods (fee simple, conservation easements) and any recent success stories or news.
- → Familiarize yourself with the major battlefields in the Southeast region, such as Chickamauga, Shiloh, Kennesaw Mountain, and Kings Mountain.
- → Research the funding landscape for battlefield preservation, including federal programs like the American Battlefield Protection Program and state grants.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention the Trust or the Southeast region—show you've done your research.
- Overlooking the importance of conservation easements; if you lack experience, acknowledge it and emphasize your willingness to learn, but highlight transferable skills.
- Failing to demonstrate remote work capability or the ability to travel frequently, as the role requires both—be clear about your flexibility.
📅 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 Battlefield Trust!