River Ecologist

About the Coastal Watershed Council The Coastal Watershed Council is a dynamic and growing 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Santa Cruz, CA, working to transform the lower San Lorenzo River into a community destination by inspiring people to explore, enhance and protect this critical natural resource. When people care for the river, learn about its significance and build a connection to nature, it benefits the river ecosystem and the community. CWC's key programs include community-driven advocacy and action, empowering youth and families, as well as improving habitat, trails and parks amenities. CWC's work takes place on unceded territory of Awaswas-speaking Uypi tribe.

Job Summary:

The River Ecologist implements environmental restoration and landscape projects along the lower San Lorenzo River and Santa Cruz Riverwalk park. Restoration efforts typically include controlling invasive species, installing native seed, maintaining project sites through weeding and watering, and vegetation monitoring. Restoration activities are completed by the River Ecologist as well as community volunteers coordinated by the River Ecologist. Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, including people experiencing homelessness who participate in CWC's weekly River Stewards volunteer program, led by the River Ecologist. The River Ecologist is responsible for coordinating volunteers before, during and after volunteer events. For more information on CWC's restoration activities, please visit: https://coastal-watershed.org/san-lorenzo-river/our-approach/habitat.

River Ecologist Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Plan, adapt and implement restoration activities including seeding/planting native species, maintenance, and invasive species removal in order to improve biodiversity. Restoration activities are located in an area highly impacted by flood control infrastructure and homelessness. Recruit, coordinate, and lead diverse youth and adult volunteers in restoration activities (e.g. people experiencing homelessness, Spanish-speaking volunteers, corporate groups and volunteers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds). Manage restoration projects to measure outcomes and meet grant/contract objectives within timeline and budget. Assist in the creation of grant/contract proposals, budgets, timelines and reports. Communicate and coordinate with volunteers, contractors and program partners, including the City of Santa Cruz, through email, phone calls and meetings in order to sustain strong working relationships and achieve program outcomes. Complete environmental monitoring and evaluation through survivorship analysis, percent cover surveys and mapping. Maintain and manage physical inventory of restoration tools and supplies and participant documentation. Support and manage habitat program staff, subcontractors, interns and volunteers, including hiring, training, mentoring, scheduling and evaluating. Perform other duties as assigned.

CWC Employee Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Strategize, evaluate, and prioritize activities to achieve project, organizational and fundraising goals and objectives. Contribute to the strategic development and improvement of CWC programs, budgets, practices and policies, with an emphasis on increasing diversity, equity and inclusion. Provide cross-departmental support by actively participating in and aiding various programs, including positively representing and communicating about your contributions to CWC's work Communicate quickly and effectively with supervisor and colleagues about project challenges and opportunities. Understand limitations and execute tasks to the best of your ability. Implement CWC safety protocols, including field and public health protocols. Keep workspaces clean, safe and organized, and maintain a daily record of activities. Education & Experience (required): Minimum three (3) years' related experience, including restoration, landscaping, agriculture, gardening, trail stewardship or a related land management field. Experience working with diverse communities and/or underrepresented groups. Ability to work safely and professionally in urban field environments that require sound judgement, situational awareness and de-escalation skills. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (required): Basic knowledge of environmental principles, traditional ecological knowledge, river restoration practices and/or watershed concepts. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Ability to lift and carry approximately 25 pounds. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (preferred): Spanish-language fluency or proficiency. Experience working with volunteers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Undergraduate college degree in a related field. Knowledge of habitat restoration techniques, environmental monitoring, botany, wildlife ecology and/or related fields. Knowledge of communications tools, including social media and web management.

Additional Information:

Direct Reports:

1+

Travel Requirements:

Minimal. Access to reliable transportation preferred. A valid California Driver's License and personal vehicle are helpful but not required for this role. Employees who do drive a personal vehicle for CWC business must maintain a driving record that meets CWC insurance eligibility criteria and carry personal auto insurance with minimum limits of $100,000. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify a candidate from employment and will be considered in relation to the job duties and responsibilities.

Disclaimer:

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. The Coastal Watershed Council reserves the right to alter this description at any time. The Coastal Watershed Council practices the concept of equal employment opportunity with respect to hiring, promotions, transfers, pay discipline, fringe benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment. No individual will be discriminated against, and no employment decisions will be made, on the basis of an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, protected disability, marital status, familial status, veteran status, height, weight, or citizenship. CWC is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination. CWC prohibits unlawful discrimination in any term or condition of employment against any employee or applicant for employment because of the individual's race, color, religion, gender, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, medical condition, genetic information, disability, membership or service in the U.S. Armed Forces, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all personnel transactions, including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, placement, training, compensation, benefits, leave of absence, transfer, promotion, demotion, discipline, layoff, and termination. CWC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to making this the best place in the county to work, where we're all proud of our work with the Santa Cruz community. People of color, women, persons with disabilities, veterans, and LGBTQI persons are highly encouraged to apply.

To apply:

Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and due no later than Monday, April 27. Submit your application via email to Laurie Egan, Executive Director, legan@coastal-watershed.org.

Please include:

"River Ecologist" in the subject line of your email and attach a cover letter and your resume. Thanks for your interest in transforming the river!

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

$30.79 - $36.95 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person