Natural Climate Solutions Technician

About YVSC

Yampa Valley Sustainability Council (YVSC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Steamboat Springs, CO (Routt County). Established in 2009, YVSC is guided by the mission, “to serve as a leader, resource and catalyst for building a sustainable and resilient Yampa Valley region.” YVSC programs span Resilient Land & Water, Waste Diversion, Energy, Transportation, and Community Engagement. In recognition that climate change is the most pressing sustainability issue of our time, YVSC is committed to advancing climate action – actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through decarbonization and carbon sequestration and build resilience – throughout our priority areas through programs, partnerships and education.

Position Description

Housed within our Resilient Land and Water Priority Area, this position will support the implementation, maintenance and monitoring of natural climate solutions projects that increase carbon sequestration and resilience in the Yampa Valley. Projects will span an array of habitats, including but not limited to upland forests, wetland/riparian areas and rangelands/grasslands. The technician will work with project partners, including U.S. Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, and a diverse group of other federal, state, and local partners. 

This position is primarily field-based and will require frequent travel to project sites and to partner meetings throughout the region when needed. Administrative duties and meetings will be held at the YVSC office in Steamboat Springs.  This position will report primarily to the Natural Climate Solutions Projects Manager, under the direction of the Resilient Water and Watersheds Director, and may work with and/or mentor other YVSC Interns or Apprentices, technicians, volunteers or other project-support crews. The employment period will run for 22 weeks, from June 9th to November 7th. 

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist with the planning, implementation, maintenance, and monitoring of natural climate solutions projects led by YVSC.
• Support data collection.
• Work with partner organizations on project collaboration.
• Lead youth education and conservation activities.
• Help plan and lead volunteer events (i.e. Yampa Valley Climate Crew, ReTree).
• Organize and populate databases related to NCS projects.
• Maintain YVSC tools, equipment, and storage facilities.
• Coordinate with YVSC staff to support event-related communications and logistics as needed.
• Participate in YVSC staff meetings, events and activities throughout the employment period.
• Support media work, including writing content for YVSC’s social media platforms and coordinating with partner organizations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or actively enrolled in a Bachelor’s program.
• Some experience working in the field of natural resource management, conservation, and/or habitat restoration.
• Understanding of natural resource management issues relevant to natural climate solutions, climate mitigation, and climate adaptation.
• Function well as a team member.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders and strengthen partnerships.
• Ability to problem-solve and think creatively.
• Ability and willingness to travel throughout the Yampa Valley region and occasionally beyond for staff meetings, conferences, etc.
• Valid driver’s license and own vehicle.
• Experience using MS Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Salary and Benefits

This position is part-time, with a range of 25-30 hours per week, or an average of 27 hours per week each month. Compensation is hourly at $22-24/hour commensurate with experience and does not include additional benefits.