Organization Description:

Delaware Nature Society’s mission is to connect people with the natural world to improve our environment through education, advocacy and conservation. We envision a healthy and sustainable environment.

Founded in 1964, Delaware Nature Society, a state affiliate for the National Wildlife Federation, is renowned for our educational programming, conservation, and advocacy. We provide the tools for communities to take action and promote the health of the environment through land preservation, wildlife protection, and watershed stewardship.

We manage over 2,000 acres of land, including four nature preserves, and operate four educational sites: Ashland Nature Center, Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, DuPont Environmental Education Center, and Coverdale Farm Preserve. Our organizational priorities are comprised of three pillars of engagement focused on:  Working & Natural Lands, Healthy Waters, and, Protecting Habitats and Wildlife.

Currently, thousands of Members and over 1,000 volunteers assist our core staff and interns to support Delaware Nature Society’s mission and help our year-round educational programs, conservation, and advocacy efforts continue to improve and grow.

General Position Description:

The Livestock Manager plays an important role in our work bringing an entrepreneurial spirit to the operation of a multi-species, planned rotational grass-based enterprise that exemplifies the synergetic relationship between soil, plant, animal, and consumer. The Livestock Manager is part of a team charged with implementing a visionary 10-year Master Plan.  This full-time year-round core position requires residence on Coverdale Farm Preserve.  Compensation includes salary, benefits package, and housing w/ utilities included.  

Successful candidates will have:

• Commitment to and passion for the mission of Delaware Nature Society and Coverdale Farm Preserve
• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science or equivalent
• 5 years of relevant experience in diversified grass-based livestock management /animal husbandry at production scale
• Experience with the process and maintenance of organic certification
• Clear understanding of veterinary care, birth through slaughter responsibilities, and willingness to engage in all stages and situations of animal life cycles. 
• Excellent working knowledge of core issues related to regenerative agriculture
• Excellent working knowledge of grassland and pasture ecosystems management and of supplementary feeding
• Knowledge of farm equipment operation, maintenance and repair
• 3 years supervisory & staff management experience
• Professional maturity and positive interpersonal skills with friendly attitude
• Organized, willing to take initiative, think and act proactively to solve problems and assess priorities, and manage a variety of tasks calmly and effectively
• Excellent public relations and communication skills with an ease and enthusiasm for talking to individuals of all ages
• Ability to work outside for extended periods of time in various weather conditions
• Ability to work as a professional team member in an active, changing environment