PLJV is a regional partnership of federal and state wildlife agencies, conservation groups and private industry dedicated to conserving bird habitat throughout portions of Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. Our mission is to conserve the playas, prairies and landscapes of the western Great Plains through partnerships for the benefit of birds, other wildlife, and people. The Joint Venture facilitates cooperation among a broad coalition of partners on the national, regional, state and local levels to fund and implement habitat conservation. We provide regional planning, value-added efficiency and implementation approaches, while our partners provide financial, technical and local expertise to develop conservation projects. In addition, PLJV supports local conservation partnerships, state agencies and other partners by developing various decision support tools, as well as providing education about how to use the tools to target and deliver the most effective habitat conservation. PLJV also works with a variety of partners to inform landowners about conservation programs and to target conservation efforts in areas that will provide the most benefit.
We currently have one open position, listed below. You can also check back for new job postings or sign up to receive the Playa Post where we announce new job opportunities.
Natural Resources Specialist
This position serves as a technical services provider for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, New Mexico. The incumbent performs a variety of duties related to carrying out a coordinated natural resources conservation program to assist customers to meet their conservation needs for the applicable programs of the USDA National Farm Bill.
This is a part-time position with funding available for two years through a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The incumbent is an employee of the Playa Lakes Joint Venture (PLJV) who serves as the supervisor of record. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) District Conservationist will provide daily work assignments, technical review, and oversight of the position. Performance evaluations will be made by the PLJV in consultation with the NRCS District Conservationist.
Major Duties
- Assists conservation specialists in developing and implementing conservation plans; conducting scientific studies and investigations of the use of soils, water, vegetation, wildlife, and other natural resources as part of the land management and natural resources program.
- Assists the NRCS District Conservationist with coordinating surveys, monitoring, compiling and analyzing biological and soils data associated with environmental studies including fish and wildlife, rangeland management, and soil conservation.
- Reviews the application of basic agronomic, engineering, rangeland, and wildlife practices common to the area, and gives input to the District Conservationist. Helps document completed practices for compliance with plans, designs, and specifications and reports to the district conservationist.
- As needed, assists field conservationists to help Farm Bill Program applicants
apply for programs, helps gather basic information and data to aid in the development of conservation plans and program contracts. - Performs other duties that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of natural resource conservation operations. Employee has no job approval authority nor authority to approve any practice, contract, or payment documents without specific approval from the NRCS specialists.
Required Qualifications
- A degree in Natural Resources Management, Environmental Studies or related experience and >1 year experience in natural resources management.
- Experience with Farm Bill practices and programs.
- Demonstrated track record of working with agricultural producers, both farmers and ranchers.
- Ability to organize multiple moving pieces, meet deadlines, and adapt to fit various situations.
- Strong communications skills, including the ability to succinctly explain detailed scientific information in a way that is understandable to the average audience.
- Ability to connect and communicate with, and listen and learn from people with diverse perspectives, experiences, and values.
Desired Qualifications
- Understanding of livestock/ranching operations in southeastern New Mexico.
- Ability to communicate in English and Spanish.
Other Requirements/Physical Demands
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
- This position will need to conduct off-site meetings and evaluations that may include traversing wet, rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces in hot, cold, dry, or humid environments.
- This position requires substantial workday travel within southeastern New Mexico to meet with landowners and partners.
A U.S. Federal background check will be required for employment.
Supervisor
The incumbent is an employee of PLJV, the Conservation Science Director will serve as the supervisor of record. The NRCS District Conservationist will provide daily work assignments, technical review, and oversight of the position. Performance evaluations will be made by the PLJV Conservation Science Director in consultation with the NRCS District Conservationist. More information about NRCS can be found at nrcs.usda.gov/about.
Salary, Benefits, and Start Date
Starting salary is commensurate with education, experience, and location. This position can be offered as a 0.5 FTE or as a contractual equivalent for two years. There is the potential for additional funding that will increase this to a 1.0 FTE for two years. We anticipate this position will begin working in early April 2026.
Job Location
The office location is in Roswell, New Mexico in an NRCS office. Priority will be given to candidates with a demonstrated connection to the landscape or community.
How to Apply
Playa Lakes Joint Venture is an Equal Opportunity Employer and seeks a diverse applicant pool. Please email your application documents as one complete PDF file to jobs@pljv.org. All applications should include a one-page cover letter and a resume. The deadline for all applications is February 13, 2026.