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    <title>Open Space Institute, Inc. Jobs</title>
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    <description><![CDATA[Job Postings available for application.]]></description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:25:06 EDT</pubDate>
    <lastBuildDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:25:06 EDT</lastBuildDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Greenway Trails Project Manager - New York, NY]]></title>
      <link>http://ejob.bz/jb.do?reqGK=27776111&amp;companyGK=57114&amp;portalGK=48857</link>
      <guid>b334bf2d-0f06-4816-b98c-d73d3cd3f0ab</guid>
      <description><![CDATA[Greenway Trails Project Manager, Land Program 




Position Title:


Project Manager, Greenway Trails




Location:


Remote (Will accept applicants from NY, NJ, CT, PA). Projects will be in the Northeast and Midwest US.




Department:


Land Acquisition Program




Reports To:


Senior Vice President, NE Land




Direct Reports: 


None




Salary Range:


$90,000 - $100,000




FLSA Status:


Exempt




Date:


April 2026




 
About the Open Space Institute
The Open Space Institute is a national leader in land conservation and efforts to make parks and other protected land more welcoming for all. Since 1974, OSI has partnered in the protection of more than 2.5 million at-risk and environmentally sensitive acres in the eastern U.S. OSI&rsquo;s land protection promotes clean air and water, improves access to recreation, provides wildlife habitat, strengthens communities, and combats the devastating impacts of extreme weather. 
 
Position Overview 
The Greenway Trails Project Manager manages land acquisition projects that convert former rail corridors into public greenway trails and expand regional trail networks across the Northeast and Midwest. Working under the direction of the Senior Vice President of Northeast Land and in coordination with the Legal Department, this role supports the completion of complex real estate transactions involving rail corridor acquisition, multi-party negotiations, public funding sources, and coordination with government agencies to expand regional trail networks. Projects may involve railbanking, corridor preservation, and coordination with railroads, public agencies, and trail partners to transition former rail infrastructure into public trail networks.
 
The Project Manager coordinates the day-to-day progress of acquisition projects, including managing due diligence, working with consultants, supporting purchase negotiations, navigating public review processes, and assisting with funding applications. The role also helps identify potential acquisition opportunities and supports efforts to secure funding for trail and conservation projects.
 
This position requires experience with real estate transactions, land acquisition, or conservation projects, strong project management skills, and the ability to coordinate multiple partners and processes to move projects forward. 
 
Primary Responsibilities & Duties
Lead Rail Corridor Land Acquisition Projects

Manage rail corridor acquisition projects that convert former rail lines into public greenway trails, including projects involving railbanking and corridor preservation. Work under the direction of the Senior Vice President, Northeast Land and in coordination with OSI legal staff.
Coordinate all stages of acquisition projects to ensure timely progress toward closing
Track project timelines, milestones, and deliverables across multiple active projects
Prepare internal project summaries, fact sheets, maps, and approval documentation
Coordinate with internal staff, consultants, and external partners to advance projects
Identify and evaluate potential rail corridor acquisition opportunities in coordination with internal staff and external partners.
Coordinate with railroads, public agencies, and trail organizations involved in railbanking or rail corridor conversion efforts.

 
Oversee Real Estate Due Diligence and Transaction Support
Manage and coordinate the technical and transactional components required to complete acquisitions.

Coordinate project due diligence including title, survey, appraisal, and environmental assessments
Support negotiation and execution of purchase and sale agreements
Contract for and review appraisals, environmental assessments, survey work, and title reports
Manage public review processes and government approvals related to land acquisition

 
Secure and Support Project Funding
Help identify and obtain funding necessary to support trail acquisition and conservation projects.

Identify and develop funding sources for rail corridor acquisition capital and project costs.
Write or assist with competitive grant applications and project budgets.
Coordinate with internal teams and partners to align funding strategies with project timelines.

 
Shared Programmatic Commitments

Use creativity and entrepreneurship to steer conservation funding to projects that serve under resourced and racially diverse communities.
Consider real and perceived impacts a project may have on proximate communities and amend project plans to the extent practical after community feedback.
Consider and review equity as a criterion where appropriate, for project selection.

 
This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.
 
Culture & Equity Responsibilities
All OSI staff are expected to contribute to a workplace culture grounded in respect, fairness, and inclusion. This includes highlighting the importance of group identity and considering how personal bias or favoritism may affect interactions or result in inequitable treatment or communication-sharing throughout the organization.
 
Staff are also expected to cultivate networks and candidate pipelines that include group identities currently underrepresented at OSI, and to draw from those networks when positions are open.
 
Required Skills/Core Competencies

Sound understanding of real estate principles and economics.
Experience working with Class I or Class II railroads or familiarity with railroad real estate transactions preferred.
Familiarity with government real property acquisition review process.
Working knowledge of the processes for obtaining public funding for land acquisition.
Ability to manage multiple properties, multiple funding sources and processes, develop programs and use resources of the organization to accomplish larger initiatives.
Experience with mapping and related GIS analysis is a plus. 
Superior written and oral communication skills.
Proficiency with computer applications including MS Office, internet tools, and databases.
Highly organized.
Ability to work well as part of a team, and individually.
High-level familiarity with public agency land acquisition departments.

Qualifications

5&ndash;8 years of experience in real estate transactions, land acquisition, conservation real estate, infrastructure corridor acquisition, or related project management work.
Experience managing or supporting real estate due diligence processes (title, survey, appraisal, environmental review) preferred.
Experience in working on railroad projects preferred.
A track record of effective relationship management, both internally and externally.
Bachelor's degree, advanced degree in related field preferred; or equivalent experience.
Existing relationships with public agencies and government officials is a plus.

 
Physical Requirements

Valid driver&rsquo;s license required. 
Moderate to heavy travel (30% or more): evening and occasional weekend work to be expected.
Frequently sits for long periods of time.
Frequently speaks, reads, writes and uses a computer keyboard.
Requires standing, walking, stooping, bending, lifting up to 30 lbs.
Have an appropriate home workspace for remote days.

 
Please note: If you do not wholly meet the above qualifications but believe you are otherwise well-suited to meet the needs of this position, we encourage you to apply. 
 
Working Arrangements, Pay and Benefits
This is a full-time position requiring 37.5 hours per week within regular business hours; typically 9am-5pm. The role is remote, with regular travel to project sites, generally in the Northeast and Midwest US. We will accept applicants who reside in NY, NJ, CT, PA.
 
Pay for this position is $90,000-$100,000, commensurate with the candidate&rsquo;s skill level and experience. The recruiting team is committed to sharing details regarding compensation based on the candidate's qualifications during the interview process.
 
OSI offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package, including a choice of medical plans (both traditional and high-deductible health plans with HSA), with premiums for employees and their dependents covered up to 100% on some plans; dental and vision coverage, with premiums for employees and their dependents 100% covered by OSI; flexible spending accounts; a 403(b) plan with both an up to 4% employer match and 4% discretionary employer contribution after 2 years of service; paid time off, including paid holidays, accrued PTO and sick days, 3 &ldquo;Summer Fridays&rdquo;, and 2 floating holidays; life insurance; disability coverage; an employee assistance program; and more.
 
How To Apply
Apply using the button below! Attach a cover letter that includes where you learned of the job posting along with your resume. Applications without a cover letter are not likely to be considered. 
 
Applications will be actively reviewed on a rolling basis from the time of posting in late April 2026. Early submissions may receive priority consideration. If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your application as soon as possible, as the role will be unposted once a strong candidate pool has been identified. We will contact you if we would like to schedule an interview. 
 
Equal Opportunity Statement
OSI is an equal opportunity employer. We recognize that our conservation mission is best advanced by the contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, experiences, beliefs, and cultures. We are committed to cultivating and retaining a diverse and inclusive work environment that fosters belonging. 
 
OSI offers accommodations for individuals with disabilities in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please email resumes@osiny.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line. 
 
OSI does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, height, weight, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title><![CDATA[Communications Manager - Albany, NY]]></title>
      <link>http://ejob.bz/jb.do?reqGK=27775300&amp;companyGK=57114&amp;portalGK=48857</link>
      <guid>fa63974c-c673-4f51-8840-385a623cbdc7</guid>
      <description><![CDATA[Communications Manager




Position Title:


Communications Manager




Location:


Albany, NY




Department:


External Affairs &ndash; Communications




Reports To:


Director of Communications




Direct Reports: 


None




Work Arrangement:


Minimum of 3 days per week in the office, with flexibility to work from home up to 2 days, and in accordance with business needs




Salary Range:


$82,000 - $91,000




FLSA Status:


Exempt




Date:


April 2026




 
About the Open Space Institute
The Open Space Institute is a national leader in land conservation and efforts to make parks and other protected land more welcoming for all. Since 1974, OSI has partnered in the protection of more than 2.5 million at-risk and environmentally sensitive acres in the eastern U.S. OSI&rsquo;s land protection promotes clean air and water, improves access to recreation, provides wildlife habitat, strengthens communities, and combats the devastating impacts of extreme weather.
Position Overview
The Communications Manager is responsible for development and execution of communication materials that maximize external awareness and understanding of mission, programs, and accomplishments of an established organization specializing in land conservation and park development. The work of the Communications Manager is integral to the overall success of the Open Space Institute&rsquo;s brand recognition, reputational awareness, development effectiveness, and identity.
The position is responsible for developing compelling and effective storytelling across new and established multimedia platforms that reflect strategic OSI messaging, generate engagement from key audiences and the public, and galvanize support for land protection and other vital initiatives.
The position works closely with the full External Affairs team and other program staff in developing materials for a wide variety of platforms including press releases; content for monthly e-newsletters and print collateral; videos and StoryMaps social media OSI&rsquo;s website and more.
Primary Roles and Responsibilities
Media and Public Relations

Develop and execute strategic media relations programs, including cultivation and management of relationships with contacts at new and traditional media platforms.
Research, write, and edit press releases and related materials (advisories, talking points, op/eds, background materials, etc.).
Manage day-to-day media inquiries and press events.
Develop opportunities for local, regional, and national press coverage.
Manage relevant social media assets and supporting social media outreach.
Maintain and expand media contact lists.
Track placements, impressions, and keep up with media trends.

Content Creation and Management

Produce high-quality content for monthly e-news and other periodic organizational e-blasts, social media campaigns and weekly posts, print pieces (annual print newsletter, annual report, and others as needed), and other organizational and programmatic collateral needs.
Multimedia video production management.
Website content and maintenance.
Manage relationships with contract writers, videographers, and other vendors as needed.
Create advertising content and managing placements.
Support fundraising goals through occasional writing/editing of fundraising materials.

Strategic Communications and External Relations

Clearly articulate and promote work from various program areas while ensuring consistent messaging.
Track topics relevant to OSI&rsquo;s conservation, park development, and strategic goals.
Track organizational data sets as needed.

Shared Programmatic Commitments

Embed equity in OSI&rsquo;s overall communications strategy, messaging, and diversify the stories OSI tells and images we present on website and publications. 
Provide communication guidance to all staff as it relates to diversity and equity. 

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position.  There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.
Culture & Equity Responsibilities
All OSI staff are expected to contribute to a workplace culture grounded in respect, fairness, and inclusion. This includes highlighting the importance of group identity and considering how personal bias or favoritism may affect interactions or result in inequitable treatment or communication-sharing throughout the organization. 
Staff are also expected to cultivate networks and candidate pipelines that include group identities currently underrepresented at OSI, and to draw from those networks when positions are open.
Required Skills

Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build relationships across teams and with external partners.
Proven ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling narratives for a variety of audiences.
Strong grasp of adapting messages for different platforms (e.g., website, print, video, and social media).
Demonstrated success in media relations, including cultivating press contacts and organizing media events.
Strategic thinker who can connect day-to-day communications work to larger organizational goals.
Strong project management skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively across departments.
Sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Ability to move seamlessly between working independently and as part of a team.
Ability to create and edit video a plus.

Qualifications 

Bachelor&rsquo;s degree, preferably in communications.
Exceptional writing and editing skills.
Minimum of seven years&rsquo; experience in communications. 
Experience in environment, conservation, and/or park fields preferred. 

Location & Physical Requirements

This position is based out of our Albany, New York.
A minimum of three days per week in office expected weekly.
Work indoors in an office with occasional outdoors work.
Frequently sits for long periods of time.
Frequently speaks, reads, writes and uses a computer keyboard.
Requires standing, walking, lifting, stooping, bending, lifting up to 30 lbs. 
Occasional travel required.
Have an appropriate home workspace for remote days.

Please note: If you do not wholly meet the above qualifications but believe you are otherwise well-suited to meet the needs of this position, we encourage you to apply. 
Working Arrangements, Pay and Benefits
This is a full-time position requiring 37.5 hours per week within regular business hours. All of our offices are open and fully operational five days per week, as we believe that working together in person can facilitate spontaneous interaction, clearer communication, efficient problem-solving, stronger team cohesion, and support for newer employees. However, OSI recognizes the importance of flexibility for our staff. This role involves working onsite at our Albany, NY office a minimum of three days per week. 
Pay for this position is $82,000 - $91,000, commensurate with the candidate&rsquo;s skill level and experience. The recruiting team is committed to sharing details regarding compensation based on the candidate's qualifications during the interview process.
OSI offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package, including a choice of medical plans (both traditional and high-deductible health plans with HSA), with premiums for employees and their dependents covered up to 100% on some plans; dental and vision coverage, with premiums for employees and their dependents 100% covered by OSI; flexible spending accounts; a 403(b) plan with both an up to 4% employer match and 4% discretionary employer contribution after 2 years of service; paid time off, including paid holidays, accrued PTO and sick days, 3 &ldquo;Summer Fridays&rdquo;, and 2 floating holidays; life insurance; disability coverage; an employee assistance program; and more.
How to Apply
Apply using the button below! Include a cover letter that includes where you learned of the job posting along with your resume and a relevant writing sample. Applications without a cover letter and writing sample are not likely to be considered. Please note: your cover letter and writing sample must be combined into one file and uploaded together in the &ldquo;Cover Letter&rdquo; section of the application. 
Applications will be actively reviewed on a rolling basis from the time of posting in April 2026, with earlier submissions receiving priority consideration. If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your application as soon as possible, as the role will be unposted once a strong candidate pool has been identified. You will receive an acknowledgment once your application has been submitted, and we will contact you if we would like to schedule an interview.   
Equal Opportunity Statement
OSI is an equal opportunity employer. We recognize that our conservation mission is best advanced by the contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, experiences, beliefs, and cultures. We are committed to cultivating and retaining a diverse and inclusive work environment that fosters belonging.
OSI offers accommodations for individuals with disabilities in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to resumes@osiny.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line. 
Consistent with New York State law, OSI does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, height, weight, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. 
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. OSI will not sponsor applicants for work visas.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title><![CDATA[Director of Government Relations, New York State - Albany, NY]]></title>
      <link>http://ejob.bz/jb.do?reqGK=27774734&amp;companyGK=57114&amp;portalGK=48857</link>
      <guid>242bff1a-487d-4f7b-b390-024dfd541b43</guid>
      <description><![CDATA[Position Title:   Director of Government Relations, New York State
Reports To:         Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff
Direct Reports: None
Department:      External Affairs
Location:             Albany, New York
FLSA Status:       Exempt
Salary Range:    $140,000 - $150,000
Date:                      April 2026
About the Open Space Institute
The Open Space Institute (OSI) is a national leader in land conservation and efforts to make parks and other protected land more welcoming for all. Since 1974, OSI has partnered in the protection of more than 2.5 million at-risk and environmentally sensitive acres in the eastern U.S. OSI&rsquo;s land protection promotes clean air and water, improves access to recreation, provides wildlife habitat, strengthens communities, and combats the devastating impacts of extreme weather.
Position Summary
The New York State Director of Government Relations Director (DGR) advances the Open Space Institute&rsquo;s (OSI) mission by leading state-level policy, legislative, and agency engagement in New York. Reporting to the Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, the DGR will lead OSI&rsquo;s comprehensive efforts to promote greater land conservation across New York State by strengthening conservation funding from state and local governments; coalition building; research; advocacy; and education.  Working closely with colleagues, the DGR serves as OSI&rsquo;s primary representative to New York State government, cultivating senior-level relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and key partners to advance OSI&rsquo;s policy objectives. The position also coordinates across OSI departments and with coalitions and advocacy partners to align policy and program priorities. This role is perfect for a self-starter who excels in relationship-building, strategic outreach, and cross-functional collaboration. 
While the primary focus of this position is New York State, the DGR may also engage in related policy and government relations work in other states in the eastern U.S. &ndash; where OSI has active conservation initiatives and partnerships.
Primary Roles and Responsibilities
Government Relations and Policy Implementation

Lead the development and implementation of OSI&rsquo;s state policy and advocacy strategies in collaboration with executive leadership.
Oversee the tracking and analysis of New York State legislation, budget items, and regulatory initiatives related to conservation funding (e.g., Environmental Protection Fund), climate resilience, public lands, and outdoor recreation.
Coordinate and direct OSI&rsquo;s representation with key state agencies (e.g., DEC, OPRHP, DOS) and statewide coalitions addressing open space, parkland, and public access policies.
Serve as OSI&rsquo;s senior representative and spokesperson in meetings with legislators, agency leaders, and coalition partners.
Develop and deliver policy briefs, testimony, and correspondence articulating OSI&rsquo;s positions to policymakers and partners.
Lead planning and strategy for OSI&rsquo;s participation in key lobbying days and advocacy events, including EPF Lobby Day and Parks and Public Lands Advocacy Day.
Manage external consultants, lobbyists, and advocacy contracts to ensure alignment with OSI&rsquo;s strategic priorities.

Relationship-Building, Outreach and Coalition Development

Expand, cultivate and leverage high-level relationships with state legislators, agency leadership, and partner organizations to advance OSI&rsquo;s policy and funding goals.
Build strategic coalitions with nonprofit, environmental, and community partners to coordinate advocacy efforts and strengthen statewide impact.
Advise and collaborate with OSI program teams (Land, Parks, Stewardship, and External Affairs) on government-related opportunities affecting land acquisitions, transfers, and stewardship.
Represent OSI at public hearings, stakeholder meetings, ensuring a consistent and influential organizational presence.

Communications and Public Engagement

Partner with OSI Communications leadership to develop and deliver messaging that advances OSI&rsquo;s state policy priorities.
Serve as a policy spokesperson for OSI in public, media, and coalition forums.
Prepare and review briefing materials, talking points, and presentations for OSI leadership and board members.
Contribute to OSI&rsquo;s thought leadership by articulating the organization&rsquo;s role in advancing conservation and public access policy.

Internal Coordination

Provide strategic policy guidance and analysis to OSI&rsquo;s senior leadership and program teams, translating policy developments into actionable organizational strategies.
Track and evaluate advocacy outcomes and report on progress to OSI leadership, funders, and the board.
Supervise staff or consultants supporting policy or advocacy initiatives.
Maintain oversight of legislative contacts, policy positions, and coalition activities to ensure coordinated advocacy across the organization.

Shared Programmatic Commitments

Identify and implement new strategies and expand initiatives to serve and fund a broad range of communities.
Promote and support public funding implications of environmental initiatives to include a wide variety of partners from within and outside the organization that represent historically underserved communities.

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned. 
Qualifications

Bachelor&rsquo;s degree in public policy, environmental studies, government, or related field (Master&rsquo;s degree preferred).
8&ndash;10+ years of progressively responsible experience in government relations, public affairs, or environmental policy, preferably within the nonprofit or public sector.
Demonstrated success in leading advocacy or legislative initiatives and influencing policy outcomes.
Deep familiarity with New York State&rsquo;s legislative, administrative, and budget processes.
Experience managing consultants, staff, or multi-organization coalitions.
Strong understanding of conservation, land protection, parks, and outdoor recreation access policy.

Skills

Proven strategic and political judgment with the ability to shape and drive policy initiatives.
Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, capable of representing OSI with legislators, agencies, and external partners.
Demonstrated leadership in managing cross-functional teams and consultants.
Strong interpersonal relationship-building and influence skills with policymakers and stakeholders; able to build trust quickly Comfort serving as a visible public-facing representative and translating policy into clear, persuasive messages for diverse audiences. 
High level of initiative, professionalism, and accountability.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with CRM, advocacy, or legislative tracking tools preferred.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Regular travel throughout New York State; valid driver&rsquo;s license required. 
Frequently sits for long periods of time.
Frequently speaks, reads, writes, and uses a computer keyboard.
May require occasional standing, walking, lifting, stooping, bending, moving files.

Please note: If you do not wholly meet the above qualifications but believe you are otherwisewell-suited to meet the needs of this position, we encourage you to apply.
How to Apply
Apply using the button below! Attach a cover letter that includes where you learned of the job posting along with your resume. Applications without a cover letter are not likely to be considered. 
Applications will be actively reviewed on a rolling basis from the time of posting in April 2026, with earlier submissions receiving priority consideration. If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your application as soon as possible. You will receive an acknowledgment once your application has been submitted, and we will contact you if we would like to schedule an interview. 
This is a full-time position requiring 37.5 hours per week within regular business hours; typically 9am-5pm. The role involves working onsite at our Albany, New York office at least three days per week.  
Pay for this position is $140,000-$150,000, commensurate with the candidate&rsquo;s skill level and experience. OSI also offers a competitive benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, a 403(b) plan, paid time off, and more. The recruiting team is committed to sharing details regarding compensation based on the candidate's qualifications and OSI&rsquo;s benefits during the interview process.
Equal Opportunity Statement
OSI is an equal opportunity employer. We recognize that our conservation mission is best advanced by the contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, experiences, beliefs, and cultures. We are committed to cultivating and retaining a diverse and inclusive work environment that fosters belonging. 
OSI offers accommodations for individuals with disabilities in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please email resumes@osiny.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line. 
Consistent with New York State law, OSI does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, height, weight, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. 
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. OSI will not sponsor applicants for work visas.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
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