Job Type: Permanent
Salary Details: DOE
Deadline: Aug 31, 2021
Required Experience: 2 – 6 years

See full job and application details at https://www.conservationjobboard.com/job-listing-stewardship-project-manager-monterey-california/2891622808

Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT) is seeking an experienced full-time Stewardship Project Manager with strong land management, organizational, and interpersonal skills. This manager will work to design and implement a portfolio of effective, efficient, and engaging projects that strengthen the ecological integrity of some of the most spectacular conserved landscapes of Monterey County, care for infrastructure, strengthen and build communities, and inspire a robust land ethic. The successful applicant will possess the technical, physical, and cooperative skill sets to achieve meaningful, tangible conservation outcomes on the ground both independently and in a team setting.

BSLT is a non-profit organization with a mission to inspire love of land across generations, conservation of our unique Monterey County landscapes, and access to outdoor experiences for all. We see a future where natural landscapes, working lands, urban open spaces and healthy communities are cared for by people who share a love of nature and a deep appreciation for the richness of their diverse cultures. We are committed to a supportive, respectful work environment for a diverse professional staff.

The stewardship team is responsible for the long-term management of over 4,000 acres of diverse land holdings including redwood and tanoak forests, coastal scrub, grasslands, riparian zones, oak woodlands, Monterey Bay dunes, working ranches, urban open space, and much more! We also monitor and promote sustainable stewardship on 35 conservation easements where we have partnered with private landowners to protect an additional 7,000 acres throughout Monterey County. Our approach is to understand the ecological and cultural resources present on the land and work to collaboratively monitor, manage, restore, and enhance those values. Engaging in stewardship is a dynamic process that requires dedication, on-going learning and taking the long view so that people, wildlife, and plant communities thrive.

Job Duties

Big Sur Land Trust’s (BSLT) Stewardship Project Manager is a full-time permanent position that manages all aspects of stewardship projects, including budgeting, planning, permitting, grant writing, contractor management, and implementation of natural resource and facilities projects on BSLT lands. This position will work closely with the Stewardship Director to implement program visions, goals, and strategies that advance climate and wildfire resilience; biodiversity and habitat protection, enhancement, and restoration; invasive species management; forestry; water resource management; erosion control; road/trail maintenance; building improvement; and community conservation priorities. Additionally, the Stewardship Project Manager will provide support, mentoring, and training for other stewardship staff; help create a positive, collaborative team culture that maintains BSLT’s learning and leadership edge; work collaboratively with other departments and organizations; and represent BSLT with donors and in the community. The duties may trend toward more office-based work, but some projects will require significant amounts of field time.

Land Management

  • Maintain regular communication with Stewardship Director regarding land management tasks and priorities.
  • Implement projects designed to restore habitat and promote biodiversity, ecosystem function, and/or increase resilience; evaluate and maintain existing project sites; protect rare and sensitive habitats or species; identify site challenges and find creative field solutions; etc.
  • Execute invasive species management program – collect data, update database, perform surveillance surveys, and follow prescribed protocols to prioritize treatments.
  • Develop and implement projects that achieve wildfire prevention, preparation, response, and recovery.
  • Implement forestry-related projects, interpret prescriptions for vegetation management, and apply best practices in accordance with existing management plan guidance.
  • Competently perform biological assessments and structure resource inventories to inform data-driven project design. Create and refine data collection processes and apply existing protocols.
  • Effectively manage contractor activities to accomplish program goals and ensure contract terms are upheld.

Periodically facilitate stewardship projects by leading volunteer events.

Building Maintenance

  • Manage repairs and upgrades for property structures and facilities for operations, safety, historic preservation, and general appearance.
  • Plan projects and build contracts related to maintenance of property structures. Oversee contractor activities to ensure delivery of project objectives.
  • Plan and prioritize projects with Stewardship team to improve a structure’s ability to withstand natural hazards and decay (e.g. fire preparedness, drainage, earthquake resistance, etc.)
  • Coordinate the development of operation manuals for ranches and preserves.

Road & Trail Maintenance

  • Ensure that roads and trails are operational, safe, and presentable.
  • Manage array of trail and road improvement projects to achieve design standards, improve recreation opportunities, reduce environmental impact, and attain preventative maintenance goals.
  • Work with BSLT staff to periodically assess damage to property road & trail systems and correctly diagnose drainage issues.

Assist BSLT staff with debris clearing and regular maintenance (e.g. mowing, drainage upgrades) activities as needed. Competently use a chainsaw and perform activities safely.

Required Qualifications

  • Required Education and Experience – Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, forestry, or other related field together with a combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • Ability to work safely outdoors and exercise good judgment.
  • A demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with varying deadlines.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, landowners, partners, volunteers, and donors.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and a desire to engage in collective brainstorming.
  • Proficient with power tool operation, including chainsaw experience.
  • Valid driver’s license and off-road driving experience using a variety of vehicles and the ability to tow trailers. Work truck provided for work-related activities.
  • Ability to hike and work under physical strain on difficult terrain in a variety of environmental conditions, including lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs. Poison oak, insects, reptiles, and other natural elements are regularly encountered at properties and easements.
  • Computer literate with the ability to compose professional emails, internal memorandums, and communicate clearly in writing.
  • Willingness to occasionally work evenings or weekends.

Desired Qualifications

  • Trail, road, and general “green” infrastructure maintenance skills and familiarity – Carpentry, erosion and flood control, trail/road engineering, advanced chainsaw skills, etc.
  • Current First Aid and CPR-certification (Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid preferred).
  • ArcGIS (ArcPro or ArcMap) skills, e.g., geospatial analysis, basic cartographic representation, data entry, familiarity with geodatabases, remote sensing, and database management.
  • Experience with invasive plant management and planning, using both physical and chemical control methods.
  • Plant identification skills, specifically Central Coast California flora.
  • Ecological restoration planning and project experience.

HOW TO APPLY

The following three items are required in order to be considered for the position:

  • Your resume
  • A letter of interest that addresses qualification requirements and notes availability to start
  • Contact information for at least three professional resources

Please E-mail completed application to employment@bigsurlandtrust.org. Applications should be received by E-mail no later than August 31, 2021. Incomplete or unqualified applications will not be considered for the position. Applicants with the most relevant experience and qualifications suitable for the position will be contacted for interviews. No calls, please.

The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.

For more information about Big Sur Land Trust, please visit www.bigsurlandtrust.org