Water Projects Coordinator, Northern Arizona

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

Arizona based (preferably in the Verde watershed: Northern AZ, Verde  Valley, Prescott, Flagstaff. Northern Phoenix considered), the Water Projects Coordinator, Northern Arizona, is a member of the Arizona Water Program working to develop and leverage strong partner relations in high priority conservation areas in Arizona with indigenous groups, research organizations, governments, corporate business sector, community organizations, national affiliates of international conservation and development organizations, etc.

The Arizona Water Program implements a diverse set of projects ranging from surface water irrigation efficiency projects, integrated water management with rural communities and watershed condition improvements. The Water Program also supports collaborative efforts to engage local communities, tribal entities, state and federal agencies and landowners to implement projects, strategies and management actions that will enhance long-term water security for ecological resources and water users.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Want to help save the planet? Through the efforts of The Nature Conservancy , thousands of acres in Arizona have been preserved for people and nature.  From the mountains to the sea, the Arizona Chapter is dedicated to conserving the natural resources that make Arizona unique. This is an exceptional career opportunity for a highly motivated, capable individual interested in joining the world’s leading conservation organization!

The Water Projects Coordinator, Northern Arizona, works as part of a cross functional team to implement projects that benefit rivers and streams in Northern Arizona with a focus on the Verde River Watershed.  This position requires strong project management skills, a knowledge of water management in rural communities and a willingness to develop relationships within the community.  This position will focus on supporting and implementing projects that reduce the impacts of groundwater pumping and increase aquifer recharge.  Project partners include local communities, state and federal land managers and water providers. 

Essential Functions include but are not limited to:

Verde Rural Communities Project Coordination (85%): 

• • Collaborate with multi-disciplinary team to assist in the development and implementation of projects and policy objectives in rural communities to reduce and mitigate the impacts of climate change and groundwater on freshwater ecosystems with an emphasis on the Verde River. Project types include domestic water conservation projects, leak detection to reduce system losses, aquifer recharge projects and land and water planning efforts.
  • Support the development and maintenance of diverse external relationships to accomplish program goals with stakeholders such as 1) staff and elected officials from towns, cities, county governments, 2) state and federal agencies, 3) conservation non-profits, 4) individual producers and 5) community groups and landowners.
  • TNC’s role within a project may include sourcing materials, developing community support for project, securing funding or other roles as needed based on project type and partner’s ability. This position will support implementation of high priority projects by:
    • Negotiating, drafting and managing contracts with qualified specialist to develop project design,
    • working internally to assist in the development of project specific budget, and
    • upholding TNC’s rules and responsibilities that are established for the project.
  • Under minimal supervision, makes independent decisions based on analysis, experience, and context.
  • May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

 Support other Conservation Programs and AZ Chapter Functions (15%)

• • Participate in Arizona Chapter and Colorado River Program meetings and planning efforts.
  • Support Verde River Project Managers in completion of planning documents, grant reporting and managing internal and external stakeholder processes.
  • Support other Verde River project types such as watershed restoration, watershed report card and building supportive communities.
  • Support projects similar to Verde River Rural Communities Projects in other geographies when capacity allows, and needs are identified.
  • Occasional travel within Arizona and in the U.S. with possible over-night stays.
  • Participate in Water, Conservation, AZ Business Unit, Divisional, Regional and TNC-wide meetings, trainings, etc.
  • Perform own employee administrative tasks in an accurate and timely manner, such as expense reports, timecards, performance self-evaluations, etc.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• BA/BS degree in science-related field and 1 year of related experience in custodial and ecological land management or similar field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with natural systems.                 
• Experience in ecological land management principles.
• Experience with current software technology such as the full suite of Microsoft applications: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint; and databases.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Youth qualified (completion of internal training within initial 30 days of employment; annually thereafter).                       

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world! 

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $39.600 – $51,480 for annual base salary. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate’s location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience; and internal equity. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.