Conservation and Recreation Program Manager

Cowiche Canyon Conservancy (CCC) is seeking a Conservation & Recreation Program Manager to join our team. CCC is a non-profit land trust.  We work to protect shrub-steppe habitat and connect people to the landscape through conservation, education, and recreation programs.   

POSITION SUMMARY: The Conservation & Recreation Program Manager is responsible for protecting, restoring, and maintaining the conservation, recreation and community values of our properties primarily through restoration projects, trail maintenance and improvements, annual monitoring, and public relations.  The position works closely with the Land Steward, Stewardship Committee, Trails Committee, Lands Committee, and external partners. The Program Manager oversees land management, restoration activities, assists with fundraising for stewardship projects, and works with the Recreation and Education and Community Outreach (ECO) Programs to coordinate activities to connect the community to the land.

General Duties:

Land Management:

• Update and implement management plans for CCC properties and easements.
• Ensure natural and cultural resource protection on CCC properties.
• Develop and oversee ecological restoration projects.
• Train volunteers in data collection, field work, and restoration techniques.

Data Collection, Data Management and Data Analysis

• Develop and oversee monitoring projects as necessary related to ecological health, plant and wildlife diversity, restoration outcomes and project efficacy, wildfire recovery, and conservation easement values.
• Analyze data and generate reports that are easily understood by both science professionals and the general public.
• Maintain and update GIS data.

Trails and Recreation Management:

• Assess, plan and coordinate trail improvement projects on a 60+ mile network of multi-use trails.
• Assist with design and construction of new trail projects.
• Volunteer management and coordination for trail projects.

Support for Education and Community Outreach Activities:

• Collaborate with Education & Community Outreach (ECO) Program to plan and incorporate outreach activities into conservation work (ie. Citizen science projects, hosting educational events in partnership with other organizations).
• Support public outreach opportunities to bring attention to our stewardship work and restoration activities.
• Develop and give presentations to the public on shrub steppe ecology and stewardship.
• Participate in public school field trip program.
• Assist with guided walks and educational events.

Development and Relationship Building:

• Contribute to and provide data for funding applications as needed to raise revenue for conservation and trail project implementation.
• Prepare grant application materials and complete grant reporting requirements. Make presentations to funders and public meetings as necessary.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with partner organizations and funders.
• Develop and maintain relationships with neighbors of CCC lands.
• Represent CCC in the broader conservation community. Participate in local, regional, state, and national efforts related to conservation. Make presentations as necessary.

Administrative Duties:

• Develop annual Conservation and Recreation work plans and budgets with input from appropriate committees.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Participate in CCC’s staff meetings, committee meetings, and board meetings, as needed.
• Participate in organizational development, board training, and fundraising activities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS and RELATED EXPERIENCE:

• A bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of experience in natural resource management, land stewardship, restoration, and/or trail building and management.
• Knowledge of shrub-steppe ecosystem and land conservation principles.
• Experience in biological data collection and analysis.
• Experience with geographic information systems and geospatial data management.
• Practical problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Strong attention to detail and record keeping.
• Ability to adapt, perform under pressure, and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities with efficiency and composure.
• Ability to work with diverse people and develop positive working relationships with volunteers, government agency employees, trail users, and other stakeholders.
• Valid, insurable driver’s license.
• Committed to land conservation.
• Desire and ability to live and work in the community.
• Ability to lift 30 pounds and walk properties with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Competent with standard computer software, including MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, and e-mail.
• Grant writing and management experience a plus.
• This is a full-time, year-round position.  This position reports to the Executive Director.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT:

Cowiche Canyon Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free from harassment and discrimination, and we ensure all employees are treated fairly and with respect. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.