Stewardship Associate

Assist and lead a variety of conservation projects throughout Nevada, mostly in back-country settings, conduct data collection on trails in BLM-managed Wilderness areas, manage volunteers, participate in volunteer recruitment and outreach activities, learn all aspects of volunteer coordination, assist in educational presentations throughout the community and online, and provide photos and written content for Friends of Nevada Wilderness email, social media, and newsletters. This a great opportunity for those interested in working in conservation, outdoor leadership, and related fields. Location: Work locations are in the Reno area and throughout Nevada’s wilderness areas. Due to the remote nature of some of the work sites, camping will be required at times at undeveloped, backcountry sites. Camping at backcountry sites is typically 8-10 nights/month but will vary. Reliable transportation to the Sparks, NV office is essential. Transportation to the field worksites is provided.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Support and lead a variety of volunteer-based stewardship projects throughout Nevada, mostly in backcountry settings, where hiking 1-10 miles and carrying heavy loads (up to 50 lbs) may be required.
• Motivate and support volunteers, keeping them comfortable and enthused
• Take photos and name, edit, and store photos in our online database
• Accurate and timely inputting of data and preparation of project files and collected data
• Participate in volunteer recruitment activities
• Assistin the preparation of email, social media, and newsletter content regarding volunteer stewardship
• Perform Wilderness trail data collection on BLM-managed public lands in northern Nevada
• Conduct out reach and education to volunteers while in the field and at formal presentations
• Accurately collect and record data with good attention to detail
• Work independently or with one other person for long days in the wilderness
• Use a GPS or Map & Compass to safely navigate
• Hike 10+ miles per day, at high altitudes, in all types of weather
• Motivate and support volunteers, keeping them comfortable and enthused
• Provide written content and photos for Friends of Nevada Wilderness’ e-news and print newsletters
• Keep equipment clean and in working order at all times

Requirements:

• 18 or older
• US citizen or equivalent
• High School diploma/GED or equivalent experience
• Reliable transportation to and from the Sparks, NV office
• Current driver’s license and clean driving record
• Must be reliable, punctual, show up prepared, and willing to follow directions
• Basic computer skills- Word, Excel, data entry
• Flexibility regarding work schedule; some weekends will be required
• Self-motivated, positive attitude, and flexible while working in a multi-task environment
• Ability to communicate and work with a diverse population
• Ability to hike up to 10 continuous miles per day with a heavy pack, lift up to 50 lbs, and work outdoors in all types of weather
• Enjoy the outdoors- due to the remote nature of work, camping will be required (you don’t need to be an outdoor expert by any means, you just need to be enthusiastic to spend time outdoors and learn outdoor skills)

Helpful Experience:

• College courses or equivalent experience in a related field
• Backcountry camping/hiking/backpacking experience
• Volunteer experience related to conservation work
• Leadership experience, formal or informal
• Firstaid/CPR certification
• Off-highway driving experience and the ability to handle large vehicles
• Spanish language abilities are a plus