Operations Officer (Protect)

A LITTLE ABOUT US

Founded in 1951, The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organisation dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling the twin crises facing our planet – climate change and biodiversity loss.  As a conservation organisation, we support the authority of Indigenous Peoples to steward and manage their lands and waters by working in partnership with Indigenous communities and organisations to strengthen governance, build on-the-ground stewardship capacity, support leaders, and catalyse local economies.

One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we strive for a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Working in 80 countries, including all 50 states of USA, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more about our global organisation, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.  

The Nature Conservancy first commenced operations in Australia in 2002. Since that time TNC Australia has grown significantly and now conducts projects in all Australian states and territories.
YOUR POSITION WITH TNC

The Operations Officer (Protect) supports the delivery of protected area and conservation pipeline initiatives across The Nature Conservancy’s Australia Business Unit.

This is a 2 year fixed term position that works closely with the Protected Landscapes team, this role provides essential coordination, data management, and operational support across Indigenous Protected Areas, land acquisition assists, and private protected area initiatives.

The role ensures that project pipelines, partnership processes, and grant and due diligence requirements are well managed, documented, and progressing efficiently. It plays a critical role in strengthening the systems, data, and operational processes that underpin conservation delivery.

This position is ideally suited to someone who enjoys structured work, data management, and coordinating complex processes across multiple projects and stakeholders.

This is a targeted position aimed at increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation within the organisation. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.
RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
Program Coordination & Delivery Support
- Coordinate and support delivery of conservation initiatives across protected area pipelines, including Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs), land acquisition assists, and private protected area opportunities.

- Track project progress, timelines, and deliverables, taking a coordinating or delivery role in selected projects while supporting broader program activities.

Data Management, Reporting & Pipeline Tracking
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date data on project pipelines, including environmental values, status, and key milestones.

- Use systems (e.g. Smartsheet) to manage, track, and report on projects, grants, and opportunities.

- Compile and present information to support team decision-making and prioritisation.

Grants, Approvals & Due Diligence
- Support preparation of approval documentation, including internal governance and donor requirements.

- Coordinate inputs to legal, financial, and due diligence processes.

- Track grant requirements, reporting timelines, and compliance obligations across projects.

Partnership & Stakeholder Support
- Assist with coordination of partner engagement, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, landholders, and other stakeholders.

- Support meetings, communications, and follow-up actions to maintain strong working relationships.

Process Improvement & Operational Support
- Contribute to improving project management, grant management, and due diligence processes.