The mission of Trinity River Audubon Center is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity. Reporting to the Executive Director of Audubon Texas, the Center Director at Trinity River Audubon Center (TRAC) will have four core functions: manage all TRAC operations; work closely with State Conservation staff.

Essential Functions

Leadership and Staff Management   

Provide dynamic, collaborative leadership for the Center’s mission, strategy, core program areas, and operating departments consistent with National Audubon’s strategic plan.
Oversee all operational aspects of the Center facilities, budgets, and programs; hire and effectively manage staff.
Working in cooperation with the State Executive Director, maintain an excellent working relationship with the Center Stewardship Board, while also building Board capacity and engagement; develop and enhance relationships with local environmental and other community leaders and partners, organizations, and stakeholders.
With staff, help grow an active volunteer program and adhere to National Audubon Society guidelines.
Preserve and cultivate a culture of mutual respect, individual initiative, collegiality, and diversity; collaborate with staff to identify and implement best practices and evaluate outcomes, where applicable.

Program Development and Implementation   

Oversee the development and implementation of programs that reflect and contribute toTexas’s contribution to the overall NAS strategy, and Central Flyway Initiatives, most specifically those relating to water conservation outreach, and the growth of Bird Friendly Communities, particularly urban conservation.
Work closely with Audubon Teas’s staff to expand TRAC’s conservation and education activities.
Maintain and grow on-site educational and outreach programs that contribute to the mission of Audubon Texas and the National Audubon Society.
Evaluate the effectiveness of TRAC’s Programs.

Marketing and Community Outreach   

Work with Audubon  Texas staff, Audubon Texas State Board, and Trinity River Audubon Center Stewardship Advisory Board and constituents to develop and implement a marketing and promotions plan for TRAC and its programs.
Develop and deliver effective oral and written presentations and, working with the state Executive Director, be available to serve as TRAC’s spokesperson with the media.
Oversee major projects and community collaborations.

Budget and Fundraising

Work with the Executive Director and Development team to develop and deliver required budgeting and financial reporting.
In partnership with the Executive Director, Director of Development, and Stewardship Advisory Board, create and implement a fund development plan for the Center that cultivates and maintains relationships with current donors while identifying and expanding new funding sources.
Enhance existing sources of earned income, including program revenue, camp and school program tuition, store sales, rental income, admissions, etc.
Effectively and enthusiastically communicate the case for support of the Center’s program at community and fundraising events.
Seek new revenue opportunities, support grant writing, ensure grant reporting and compliance; assist with and staff special fundraising events at the Center.

Land and Facilities Management   

With state and center staff, oversee habitat management projects that enhance habitat for birds and other wildlife on Audubon property.
Monitor and maintain trails and facilities, anticipating and remedying deterioration, and possible safety problems to provide for visitor needs.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Education, Non-profit Management, Environmental Studies, or related field (Master’s degree preferred), as well as 7-10 years' relevant experience in non-profit management and/or conservation experience required. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
Track record of successfully hiring, managing, and mentoring staff, and the ability to lead by example.
Demonstrated fundraising success in the areas of individual giving, corporate giving, foundation and other support will be highly weighted.
Familiarity with the communities, flora and fauna and environmental partners of Dallas and neighboring counties strongly preferred.
Strong business acumen, with the ability to think strategically and creatively, juggle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, work in a dynamic environment and effectively manage change.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to prepare and deliver presentations to diverse audiences and age groups, and prepare proposals, reports, program summaries, newsletter articles, and other documents.
Demonstrated ability to partner with key stakeholders, such as Board of Directors, management and other NAS staff.
Project management experience, including managing budgets, grants, completing reports, contracts, and other projects, required.
Self-motivated and willing to work in a flexible environment, with a willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Must have valid driver's license.
Tech-savvy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications as well as donor enterprise systems. Experience with Salesforce a strong plus.
A can-do attitude and a tolerant, friendly personality with a great sense of humor are essential. Excellent organizational and communication and writing skills are also critical for success.
A passion for conservation, the mission of the National Audubon Society and the natural resources ofTexas.