Land Stewardship Associate

Summary

Founded in 1971, Save Mount Diablo (SMD), a nationally accredited land trust and 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, California nonprofit corporation, acquires and preserves land on Mount Diablo and within its Diablo Range. This position plays a key role in planning for and executing our stewardship programs as well as daily management of Save Mount Diablo properties. The Land Stewardship Associate (LSA) takes care of our properties; implements restoration efforts; is a point of contact for lessees, neighbors, and contractors; effectively manages dedicated stewardship volunteers; and acts in an administrative capacity on behalf of these programs. Reporting to the Land Stewardship Manager, the Land Stewardship Associate supports the safety of our stewardship programs by ensuring staff and volunteers are well trained, annual fuels management is completed, and visitors and vendors on our properties have been properly oriented to the site conditions. This position supports land transaction due diligence and onboarding of new properties.

Save Mount Diablo

201 North Civic Drive, Suite 190, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Job Description: Land Stewardship Associate

This is a full-time, non-exempt position with a Monday through Friday schedule that reports to the Land Stewardship Manager and works in collaboration with the other Land Stewardship Associate.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Responsible for the stewardship of SMD properties, including habitat restoration, trail work, fire abatement, resource management planning, monitoring of conservation easements, trash removal, and other maintenance tasks.
• Coordinate restoration efforts with the stewardship volunteer programs, property maintenance, and service projects on SMD lands.
• Lead non-native plant removal with the Integrated Pest Management Team and maintain current licensing as needed.
• Work with the stewardship team to identify stewardship volunteer opportunities that relate directly to property management plans, monthly property reports, and field conditions.
• Coordinate and lead volunteer Diablo Restoration Team (DiRT) workdays, service projects, corporate workdays, and stewardship projects for Diablo Conservation Experience (DCE) field days.
• Maintain stewardship tools and equipment, including keys, locks, power tools, safety equipment, etc.
• Facilitate the use of SMD’s properties for programs to cultivate donor and supporter relationships.
• Participate actively in landowner outreach. Serve as point of contact for property lessees and contractors as directed. Participate actively in landowner outreach.
• Assist in implementation of the Conservation Buyer Program including due diligence activities for acquisition and disposition projects as needed.
• Staff events such as the annual Bioblitz, Four Days Diablo, Moonlight on the Mountain, and the Mary Bowerman Science and Research colloquium.
• Staff Discover Diablo outings as needed.
• Collaborate with the Education & Outreach Coordinator with volunteer intake, training, organization, retention, and recognition.
• Represent Save Mount Diablo at community meetings and in partnerships as appropriate.
• Partner with other departments to share information, develop integrated strategies, and achieve clear communication across the organization.
• Support Land Programs Director with strategic program planning and budgeting.
• Provide input and content for stewardship communications and publications, and on website.
• Collaborate with the Education & Outreach Coordinator with volunteer intake, training, organization, retention, and recognition.
• General support to the Land Programs Director and Land Stewardship Manager.

 Supervisory responsibilities

Manages a small number of contractors/consultants, lessees, and volunteers as needed. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in close coordination with the Land Stewardship Manager and in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include risk management, project safety, and ensuring high quality outcomes. Volunteers are an integral part of SMD’s efforts on and around Mount Diablo.  The Land Stewardship Associate must be able to coordinate, supervise, and show appreciation for our volunteers.

 The ideal candidate will have the following experience and qualifications

• At least two years of experience with land stewardship, environmental management and education, volunteer outreach, and/or volunteer coordination.
• Strong foundation in ecological principles; knowledge of East Bay ecosystems and open space desirable.
• Knowledge of restoration ecology and invasive plant management a plus.
• Experience working with and supervising volunteers in field settings.
• Ability to manage/navigate/direct complex individuals and group dynamics.
• Ability to develop and execute programs and initiatives.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to be accurate and detailed in accomplishing a variety of daily tasks.
• Advanced skills in research, writing, and public speaking.
• Ability to work independently and maintain a high level of productivity.

Education and/or experience

Bachelor’s degree in an environmental field preferred, as well as two years of work experience related to position qualifications.

Essential requirements

• Possess valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and insurance
• Ability to operate four-wheel drive vehicles in off-road applications
• Daily access to a motor vehicle
• Willingness to be flexible with schedule, including early morning or evening commitments and some weekend events
• First aid training, wilderness first aid training a plus

Physical demands

• Ability to frequently lift, carry/move small boxes, furniture, equipment, and supplies at least 75 lbs.
• Ability to hike and work, often on rugged terrain and in varied weather.

Salary Starting salary range of $55,000 to $60,000 depending on experience                

Benefits include Health, dental, vision, 403(b) retirement plan and employer matching contribution.