Programs Manager

In person or hybrid allowed.

Position Summary:

The Programs Manager is a liaisson among the departments of Gila Watershed Partnership: restoration, Gila Native Plants Nursery, and educational programs. The position includes planning and supervising restoration projects, managing contracts, providing support between restoration and the nursery, overseeing the collection of monitoring data, managing a large geospatial database, analyzing results, and communicating lessons learned to the broader scientific and management community, as well as educating the local citizens. The Programs Manager will work locally with contractors, landowners, partners and stakeholders to accomplish program goals, report progress, and adapt programs according to monitoring and management plans for each program to ensure successful project completion. There is potential for growth and development of this position.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Science

• Use best available science, management plans, and best practices to assist the restoration team in executing deliverables on restoration projects
• Work with GWP program-specific managers and Executive Director to develop new projects
• Analyze, interpret, and share monitoring data to inform adaptive management and communicate lessons learned
• Regularly strive to improve project efforts via adaptive management
• Explore potential for the inclusion of experimental studies within restoration project

Communication

• Attend regular organizational and educational meetings to provide updates to project partners and the public
• Work collaboratively with other GWP staff and partners to promote a coordinated approach to progress
• Manage the GWP Facebook page (and other social media if so inclined) to share program successes, scientific knowledge, and upcoming events and programs open to the community

Administrative

• Manage ArcGIS files and a geospatial database
• Provide project narratives for, and review of, relevant funding proposals for all programs
• Assist in grant writing and reporting

Leadership

• Promote collaboration, teamwork, and growth among program managers and staff
• Explore opportunities to advance the mission of the organization through additional conservation and educational projects within the watershed
• Serve as site supervisor for AmeriCorps volunteers

Required qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Biology, Conservation, Ecology, GIS or related field, or a bachelor’s degree in the same with experience leading projects from beginning to end
• Proficient in ArcGIS suite
• Three years’ minimum applied experience in the field of habitat restoration, GIS/mapping, or conservation grant writing and administration (which may include Masters Thesis work)

Desired qualifications:

• Positive attitude and ability to inspire and motivate team members
• Strong professional interpersonal skills and an ability to interact with a wide variety of constituents through meetings, presentation, and writing
• Proven ability to manage and maintain relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders. Should be a good listener.
• Demonstrated management skills related to planning, organization, team-building and follow-up
• Experience synthesizing and interpreting ecological monitoring data
• General computer skills including Microsoft Office and data management
• A valid state driver’s license
• Experience driving 4-wheel drive vehicles and transporting trailers
• Experience with non-profit organizations, either as an employee, volunteer, or partner

Work Environment

• Work schedule involves occasional outdoor work in extreme temperatures (additional safety equipment and risk management training, including CPR, will be provided if needed)
• Significant travel is required to inspect and work at field locations and to attend conferences, outreach, and community events. Some weekend or evening work may be required for important events or activities.
• This is a salaried, professional position where the work load is driven by the annual work plan and organizational mission objectives.
• The work week is 40 hours per week.

Compensation and Benefits:

• $42,000-$47,500 depending on experience
• Health insurance, sick leave, and unlimited PTO (supplemental dental and vision available)
• Family and pet friendly work environment
• Opportunity for personal and professional growth

Location:

The Gila Watershed Partnership offices are located in Safford, Arizona, a small city on the edge of the Sonoran Desert and nestled in the shadow of Mount Graham. Safford and the Gila Valley offer numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, natural hot springs, and vibrant local festivals.