Current Open Positions

Join our team and do good work in a beautiful place.

Executive Director

Posted August 12, 2025. 

Application Deadline: September 22, 2025
Start Date: December 8, 2025 (negotiable)

The Executive Director serves as the Wells Reserve’s chief administrative and strategic leader, responsible for overall management, fiscal stewardship, direction of a staff of 16, and mission fulfillment. This role oversees all programs—scientific research, education, training, habitat stewardship, visitor engagement, and facilities—and ensures compliance with NOAA cooperative agreements, federal and state regulations, and the Reserve’s Management Plan.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide visionary leadership and foster an inclusive, mission-driven culture.
• Supervise senior program directors and manage a $2M+ operating budget.
• Lead grant writing, reporting, and administration for 60+ active awards.
• Oversee facilities, capital projects, and stewardship of natural lands.
• Represent the Reserve locally, statewide, and nationally, maintaining strong partnerships.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years senior leadership in environmental, research, or nonprofit organizations.
• Expertise in grant-funded operations, financial management, and personnel supervision.
• Strong communication skills.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or other certified professional training in environmental science and education, nonprofit management, public administration, or a related field beneficial.

Compensation: $105,000–$120,000 annual salary, plus excellent benefits

More information: Download the complete job description. 

To Apply: Email a PDF cover letter and resume to search@wellsreserve.org by September 22, 2025, 5:00 p.m. ET. 

The Wells Reserve is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Internships

Internships in coastal science, environmental learning, and conservation practice are available at the reserve. We often identify candidates through the Five College Consortium or NOAA's Hollings Scholar program, and we participate in the MCHT Richard G. Rockefeller Conservation Internship Program and the UMaine NRT program. Please contact the director of your program of interest for information.

Volunteering

For volunteer opportunities, please visit the Volunteering page.