Rural Brownfields Apprentice Sierra Institute

Rural Brownfields Apprentice -

Sierra Institute Taylorsville, California View Job Posting Position Overview:

Brownfields present opportunities for economic revitalization in rural communities throughout Northern California. Assessing and addressing contamination at these sites simultaneously supports community-minded development and promotes human and ecological health. The Sierra Institute's North State Rural Brownfields Program includes the following activities: Creating a regional site inventory of brownfields based on public input, historical records, and environmental data. Conducting Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) on high-priority sites. Engaging community members through meetings, interviews, and workshops to shape site reuse plans and discuss environmental risks and exposure mitigation. Developing cleanup plans and recommending redevelopment options that benefit underserved rural communities. Collaborating with environmental consultants on technical work. Developing curriculum for and coordinating brownfield job training and workforce development with rural and tribal employers. The Rural Brownfields Apprentice must be capable of balancing a variety of tasks that span from technical analysis to community involvement. This is a unique opportunity to collaborate on grant-funded projects within the environmental remediation field while developing the professional skills necessary to become a leader in advancing rural brownfields work.

Key Responsibilities:

Under the direction of the Rural Brownfields Coordinator, the

Rural Brownfields Apprentice:

Prepares technical reports (Phase I Environmental Site Assessments reports, Sampling and Analysis Plans, Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Alternatives, Removal Action Workplans, etc.). Participates in environmental site investigations (Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments, Supplemental Characterizations, etc.) Conducts analysis of environmental data. Develops and delivers materials for community outreach, engagement, and education related to brownfields. Collaborate with other program areas at Sierra Institute, including, but not limited to, Wood Utilization and Rural Community Development Identifies and pursues opportunities for professional advancement.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Required Qualifications:

Interest in supporting brownfields assessment, remediation, and redevelopment in rural communities. A team-oriented perspective with a productive level of self-guidance and initiative. Education and/or experience in geology, environmental science, or environmental engineering. An ability to bring critical thinking skills, creativity, and laughter to the workplace. A willingness to work and live in a rural, mountainous area that receives snow and ice in winter. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook). Work is normally performed in an office setting, but the incumbent will be required to travel out of town for field work and meetings, and therefore, must be able to operate a motor vehicle. Must provide proof of automobile insurance, which at a minimum satisfies California Law.

Preferred Qualifications:

A degree in or currently studying Environmental Sciences/Engineering, Geology, or related field. Experience living and/or working in a rural setting and a strong desire to learn about rural issues. Experience communicating technical information to a non-technical audience. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Skills or experiences that can fill in for desired qualifications may be considered.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

This position will be primarily based in the office. However, brownfield site assessment and community engagement will necessitate travel and field work throughout Northern California, with some overnight stays expected. Field work may involve exposure to variable weather and potentially contaminated environments (with appropriate PPE). The employee must be able to walk on uneven terrain and carry field sampling equipment (up to 30 lbs.). Work hours are typically between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, though some variation may be necessary to accommodate field work and other needs.

Salary & Benefits:

Compensation is $20 to $24 per hour depending on experience. The Apprentice position is temporary (up to 9 months) with the possibility of extending or advancing into a specialist position, per the supervisor's discretion.

Benefits:

Housing available in Taylorsville Offer a medical plan, paid holidays, vacation time, and sick leave Flexible work schedule in a collaborative and supportive team environment

Application Process:

Send cover letter, resume, and three references as one PDF to jobs@sierrainstitute.us. Use "Rural Brownfields Apprentice" as the subject line. Mention where you heard about the job (be specific). Position open until filled or hiring is closed; applications reviewed on a rolling basis starting on April 30, 2026. The Sierra Institute reserves the right to close the position without filling. Questions? Call 530.284.1022 or email jobs@sierrainstitute.us.

About Sierra Institute:

The Sierra Institute supports rural communities by promoting healthy forests, watersheds, and natural resource management. Located in Taylorsville, CA, within Indian Valley, the organization focuses on initiatives that benefit the environment, economy, and equity. Surrounded by public lands like Plumas and Lassen National Forests, the area offers a uniquely rural lifestyle.

About Taylorsville:

Taylorsville, CA, is a small historic town in the scenic Indian Valley, known for its cultural richness and outdoor recreation opportunities. With a population of 154, it features landmarks like the Taylorsville Tavern and Young's Market, as well as unique community events like the Silver Buckle Rodeo and Holiday Light Parade. Surrounded by Lake Almanor, national forests, and Lassen Volcanic National Park, Taylorsville offers year-round adventure despite the impacts of the 2021 Dixie Fire. It's a blended community of ranchers, loggers, and outdoor enthusiasts drawn to its charm and natural beauty.