Start Here. Grow Here. Stay Here.

Are you passionate about protecting Florida’s natural landscapes? The Natural Areas and Trails Department is seeking a motivated, environmentally focused Land Manager to help steward County-owned natural areas and preserves.

In this role, you’ll develop and implement resource management and plans, oversee habitat restoration and invasive species management, support prescribed fire operations, and maintain trails and preserve infrastructure. You’ll collaborate with County and state partners, coordinate contractors and volunteers, and help ensure safe, high-quality public access to our natural lands. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, managing projects, and making a meaningful impact on Florida’s natural ecosystems.

The pay starts between $57,577.60 - $63,003.00/ annually, based upon experience, and benefits begin within 60 days of hire. Apply today and see how your role impacts the community for generations to come!

About This Position

• Evaluate natural and altered habitats and develop management strategies for restoration and long-term maintenance
• Prepare, implement, and update management plans, reports (including FCT reports), and required documentation for managed sites
• Monitor, document, and manage invasive, nuisance, exotic, and listed plant and wildlife species, including development of long- and short-term invasive species plans
• Develop annual prescribed burn plans and participate as a crew member on ecological burns
• Oversee resource management projects, including bid specifications, contractor oversight, and contract management duties
• Monitor and maintain park facilities and amenities to ensure safe and functional public use
• Develop, coordinate, and deliver interpretive and educational programs for the public
• Coordinate volunteers, respond to citizen concerns, and patrol County lands to maintain staff presence and address security issues
• Assist with budget planning, grant applications, and supplemental funding efforts for resource management projects
• Collaborate with County departments and state agencies, manage inter-agency agreements, review permits and research applications, and conduct conservation easement inspections

Work Hours:

• Full-time, 40 hours per week
• Typical Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

About You

To be considered for this role, you must have the following:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in one (1) of the biological or physical sciences, or a related field AND three (3) years of natural resource management experience
• -OR- Master's degree from an accredited college or university in one (1) of the biological or physical sciences, or a related field AND two (2) years of natural resource management experience
• -OR- Progressively responsible professional natural resource management experience (totaling a minimum of seven (7) years) may substitute for the required college degree, at management's discretion
• Valid Florida driver's license at the time of hire

Preferred "BONUS" Qualifications:

• PesticideApplicatorLicenseor the abilitytoobtain
• CertifiedNATA Natural AreasManageror the abilitytoobtain
• Completion of Basic Wildland Firefighting (S-130/190), Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290), Wildland Fire Chainsaws (S-112 or S-212) and completion of ICS 100-200 or the ability to obtain
• Ability and willingness to annually pass the moderate FFS pack test (carry 25 pounds while walking 2 miles in 30 minutes)
• Ability to operate ATVs, brush trucks, four-wheel-drive vehicles, and chainsaws
• Florida plant identification skills
• Natural resource management (prescribed fire, invasive species management, habitat restoration, etc.) in Florida

Physical Demands:

• This role must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to work outdoors in hot and humid conditions

Subject to Passing Substance Screening: This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening. An applicant who fails to pass a required drug screening test shall be disqualified from employment for a period of five years.

About Everything Else

Starting Pay Range: $57,577.60 - $63,003.00/ annually, based upon experience

About Sarasota County Government

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department, a CAPRA Accredited Agency, is comprised of seven divisions: Beaches and Water Access; Business Operations; Maintenance Services; Natural Areas and Trails; Park Planning and Development; Recreation and Neighborhood Parks; and Sports Development and Athletics. Our department oversees more than 55,000 acres of preserves, parks and trails, and offers outstanding natural areas, unique sporting venues and safe places for people of all ages and abilities to play, learn and grow. Our playgrounds, beaches, trails, natural areas, athletic facilities, recreation centers and water access parks provide Sarasota County residents and visitors a wide range of opportunities to stay healthy and active.

Connections working at Sarasota County Government