Headwaters Science Project Manager

Description: The Headwaters Science Project Manager works throughout the headwaters of the Yuba River watershed to assist in the management of meadow restoration projects, development of restoration plans, conduct scientific monitoring, and carry out geo-spatial data analysis in support of meadow restoration and monitoring projects. This position will work as a key team member as part of SYRCL’s interdisciplinary Watershed Science team working to ensure a healthy and resilient watershed through diverse restoration, monitoring, and water quality projects. 

Responsibilities:  This position will focus on meadow restoration projects, specifically managing the planning, implementation, and monitoring of SYRCL’s various meadow restoration projects. Monitoring includes conducting pre- and post- restoration hydrology, and botany sampling at Van Norden, Haskell Peak, Castle and Round Valley meadows. This position will plan and implement new projects in the headwaters of the North, Middle, and South Yuba River watershed. SYRCL works together with multiple federal, state, and local partners on restoration and monitoring projects. Projects include meadow and aspen restoration targeted at improving meadow hydrology, biodiversity and carbon sequestration, floodplain restoration projects targeted at improving salmonid and riparian habitat, invasive species removal targeted at reducing fuel loads and impacts in riparian areas, forest health work, water quality monitoring to investigate trends and issues across the Yuba watershed, and watershed assessments. 

The Headwaters Science Project Manager will work with the Watershed Science Director to hire and supervise contractors and will be responsible for managing large project budgets. This position will assist with GIS and data analysis and participate in report writing to support existing and future restoration projects. This position has growth opportunity depending upon experience and available resources. 

Qualifications: Demonstrated work experience managing multiple, complex grant-funded projects. Experience managing state and/or federal grants is a plus.

Experience developing and implementing restoration projects (including design, permitting, etc.). 

An understanding of CEQA and NEPA processes. 

Expertise in riparian and aquatic ecology, botany, and/or hydrology. 

Experience with ecological field data collection, GPS/GIS use, and data management is required. Data analysis skills are required. 

Proven grants management experience including prospecting for and vetting grant opportunities, preparing applications, and ensuring that awarded grants are tracked to ensure completion of deliverables, reporting, billing, and invoicing, etc. in coordination with assigned project managers. 

Expert project management skills including planning, time management, organization, and attention to detail. 

Effective communication skills necessary to develop and maintain lasting partnerships with government, agency, and community representatives, and keep partners informed and engaged. 

Excellent verbal communication and superior writing skills. 

Demonstrates initiative, is conscientious, and provides follow-through on areas of responsibility. 

Experience working in a high energy office setting cooperatively with staff and volunteers; non-profit work experience a plus. 

Master’s (M.S.) Degree in a related field or three years’ work experience in natural resources. 

Computer skills required, including proficiency with Word, Excel, R, Access, and GIS. 

Positive, self-motivated, and quick learning performer highly valued. This position requires confidentiality, and a sense of humor is a must. 

Effective leadership and team skills.

Ability to multi-task and prioritize. 

Possession of a properly registered and insured personal vehicle, and a valid California Driver’s License.  

Learn more and apply here.