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Post a JobCommunity Engagement & Outreach Specialist
Auburn, California
Located in beautiful Placer County, the Placer County Resource Conservation District (Placer RCD) seeks to hire a part-time Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist. Placer RCD’s mission is to advance sustainable management of natural resources in Placer County among private landowners, local organizations, and public agencies through action, education and outreach. Placer RCD is located at 11641 Blocker Drive #120 in Auburn, California. We offer flexible schedules and remote work with supervisor approval. This position is part-time, approximately 20-25 hours per week, and may work some evenings and weekends. Benefits include vacation and sick time, and eligible holiday pay. The position is open until filled, with a priority application submittal date of March 30, 2023.
A goal of the Placer Resource Conservation District is to communicate and engage with District constituents and its communities thoughtfully and creatively. The Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist plays a crucial role in Placer RCD’s efforts to connect with constituents and build partnerships. The role can be described within two broad tasks:
Task 1: Synthesize, Integrate, Translate, Express
- Synthesize and integrate the vision, strategic plan, communication plan, brand identity, values, mission, history, opportunities, and activities of the Placer RCD.
- Translate the information into a coherent, legible, and understandable way that effectively conveys the intended message to the target audience.
- Express (outreach) the information for its intended purpose using graphic design, photography, writing and press releases, social media, tabling events, communication planning, newsletters, public speaking, and website updates.
Task 2: Amplify Partnership Potential
- Amplify partnership potential by working with program and administration staff to deepen or establish existing and new partnerships.
CTE Tahoe Science Instructional Assistant – South Tahoe High School
South Lake Tahoe, California
Representative Duties:
- Assist in the instruction of individual or groups of students; reinforce instruction as directed by the teacher.
- Assist in the administration and scoring of tests and pupil work; assemble student lesson packets; prepare, copy and distribute classroom materials and visual aids.
- Monitor and control student behavior in the classroom, on the playground and during lunch; assure health and safety regulations are observed.
- Assist in student activities such as drills; practices and exercises; utilize flash cards, phonics and other materials; monitor and report student progress and performance.
- Assist in recording grades and taking roll; distributes and account for textbooks, equipment and other instructional materials.
- Read books to students and observe their reading abilities as assigned; assist students with letter and word pronunciation and recognition; assist students with writing exercises and assignments.
- Set up and operate audio-visual equipment; operate a variety of classroom and office equipment including a calculator, typewriter, laminator, copier, paper cutter and computer.
- Maintain learning environment in a safe, orderly and clean manner; assist in preparing exhibits, displays and bulletin boards.
- Perform assigned clerical duties in support of classroom activities such as answering phones and maintaining records, logs, student folders and files as required.
- Assure the health and safety of students by following established health and safety practices and regulations.
- Monitor after school detention activities; log student attendance and report behavior to teachers as assigned.
- Research, collect, assemble, catalog and distribute resource materials as assigned.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Knowledge of:
- Correct oral and written usage of English
- Child guidance principles and practices.
- Safe practices in classroom and playground activities.
- Basic subjects taught in District schools including arithmetic, reading, writing, grammar, and spelling.
- Basic instructional methods and techniques.
- Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct.
- Operation of standard office and classroom equipment.
- Oral and written communication skills.
- Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
- Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
- Basic record-keeping techniques.
Ability to:
- Assist in instructional and other tasks in support of the instructional program.
- Monitor, observe and report student behavior and progress according to approved policies and procedures.
- Reinforce instruction to individual or small groups as directed by the teacher.
- Assist in the preparation of instructional materials and provide routine clerical support.
- Learn and apply school policies, methods, practices and terminology used in instruction.
- Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with adults and children.
- Read books to students and assist with reading and writing activities as assigned.
- Understand and follow oral and written directions.
- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Operate standard office and classroom equipment.
- Observe health and safety regulations.
- Maintain records and files.
Description of Physical Requirements:
- Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office and classroom equipment.
- Sitting or standing for extended periods of time.
- Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to assist students.
- Seeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student activities.
- Hearing and speaking to exchange information.
Education and Experience:
- High School Diploma is required.
- A qualifying AA and/or BA, 48 college units, OR successful completion of a Paraprofessional Skills Test.
Administrator – Amador Calaveras Consensus Group
Calaveras/Amador County, California
Interested in helping build resilient landscapes and fire-safe communities through fostering collaboration? The Amador-Calaveras Consensus Group is looking for a new Administrator to foster the consensus-based decision-making process to further their mission of fire-safe communities, healthy forests and watersheds, and sustainable local economies.
Amador-Calaveras Consensus Group is an informal, community-based group of diverse stakeholders. The ACCG has approximately 30 members and meets the third Wednesday of each month.
The ACCG has an immediate need for an individual or company with administration skills to organize, manage, and document the monthly meetings, assist with similar duties for ACCG subcommittee meetings, and assist the group with communication and outreach. Qualified individuals will have good teamwork and collaboration skills, and experience running community meetings, establishing agendas, managing the website, and preparing minutes and correspondence. There is also opportunity to facilitate meetings, if desired.
The approximate workload is 30 hours per month. Interested individuals should contact Richard Sykes or Megan Layhee for further information. Pay is competitive and based on experience.
Interested applicants can attend a monthly ACCG meeting to learn more about the organization and the position.
Permanent Recreation Technicians – Tahoe National Forest
Tahoe National Forest, California
Summary:
170 positions may be filled using the OPM Direct Hire Authority for the 0462 Forestry Technician. This serves as a public notice for the use of the Direct Hire Authority in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 3327 and 3330 and 5 CFR 330. Veterans Preference and traditional rating and ranking of applicants does not apply to this vacancy.
Incumbents carry out a variety of project plans in support of the unit recreation program.
Duties:
- Assures recreation sites and areas with one or two major uses are operated and maintained in accordance with operation and maintenance plans.
- Schedules daily activities, establishes maintenance schedules, and inspects cleanup operations based on recreation operation and maintenance plans.
- Reports on conditions and use of sites and areas.
- Serves as inspector for recreation area cleanup and/or maintenance contracts.
- Maintains contact with and provides support to Campground Host(s). Serves as a unit fee collection officer.
- Inspects recreation areas, areas of concentrated public use, and special use permits for compliance with the permit and the management plans, public health, and safety.
- Performs safety hazard analyses of public recreation use areas and takes or recommends corrective action.
- Patrols wilderness to ensure areas are operated, used, and maintained in accordance with Wilderness Management Plan.
- Cleans both roadside and/or backcountry dispersed sites. Naturalizes sites where necessary in order to control use and prevent resource damage.
- Installs and maintains information boards, travel signs, regulatory signs and other signs associated with recreation sites, travel management and safety.
- Provides detailed information about recreation opportunities to Forest visitors and explains the Forest Service rules and regulations.
- Collects, compiles and summarizes information for recreation data management systems. Provides input for programming and planning.
- Oversees the construction and maintenance of trails. Monitors the condition and use of trails.
- May perform law enforcement responsibilities using all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), watercrafts, and/or snowmobiles to patrol unit roads, trails, or waterways ensuring position of forest property/land and or visitors.
Director – The Dawn Institute
Crescent Mills, California
About The Dawn Institute:
The mission of the Dawn Institute is to support local food production and education in sustainable agriculture and land stewardship, for the health and benefit of local communities.
Our primary goals for the next 3-5 years:
1. Rebuilding garden infrastructure and farm production
2. Directly addressing food access for underserved populations
3. Reach financial stability as an organization
4. Expanding our community partnerships in a meaningful way that targets longevity and success
5. Become deeply rooted in our community and show our genuine commitment towards long term change and positive development
Summary:
The Director delivers strategic priorities for the nonprofit, working with a variety of public and private, community, and individual philanthropic stakeholders. The Director role is dynamic- maintaining both a big picture role as well on the ground management and coordination of programs and production farm. The director supervises all employees and will work to rebuild our 2 acre educational and production farm that sustained significant damage in the Dixie Fire. They hold a development and networking roll, working on grants and maintaining a steady donor revenue, as well as partnering with local stakeholders to deliver meaningful and effective programming that aligns with our mission and vision.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Hire and supervise farm manager
- Manage and maintain 2 acre educational and production farm along with farm manager
- Coordinate and supervise all Dawn programs including food access, educational, and job training programming
- Report to and work closely with the Board of Directors to seek their involvement in decision-making, financial accountability, fundraising and to increase the overall visibility of the organization.
- Provide financial management of the organization.
- Establish and maintain relationships with various organizations and utilize those relationships to strategically enhance the organization’s mission.
- Produce grant proposals and reports for foundations.
- Oversee marketing and other communications efforts, including social media and annual report.
Desired Skills and Qualifications:
- Must have a strong alignment with the mission and goals of The Dawn Institute and the ability to inspire others to support the work of TDI
- Experience working with non-profit organizations
- Experience working on farms and in education
- Ability to communicate effectively and work independently on specific projects, grants, administration, program development and evaluation
- Experience developing and managing budgets
- Ability to attract donors, new partnerships, staff and volunteers
- Has great interpersonal skills and ability to give and receive effective feedback
- Skilled at grant-writing and developing fundraising strategies
- Computer literate and proficient in Excel, Word, Google Docs, website and digital design
- Those with strong connections to local Indian Valley community are strongly encouraged to apply.
Please email resume and optional cover letter to DawnIndianFalls@gmail.com
Local Housing opportunities are available
Hours: 20-40 hours/week
Compensation: $20-$30/hour, depending on experience
Forest Health Coordinator
Woodfords, California
Alpine Watershed Group (AWG) seeks a Forest Health Coordinator to help manage and implement AWG’s restoration, monitoring, and community outreach programs related to forest health and resilience and post-fire restoration. The Forest Health Coordinator works out of the AWG office in Woodfords, California.
Position Description:
The Forest Health Coordinator helps to manage and implement AWG’s post-fire monitoring and restoration programs, including coordination of volunteers, collaboration with partner agencies, and planning forest health specific watershed activities. Short and long-term focus will be on forest health and resilience as well as community engagement. The Forest Health Coordinator may also assist with fundraising. In our small office environment, the Forest Health Coordinator will work closely with the Headwaters Coordinator to ensure all work can be completed and reports to the Executive Director.
Responsibilities:
Forest Health and Resilience Planning:
- Coordinate the involvement of community members and local/regional natural resource partners in forest health and resilience planning, post-fire and wildfire mitigation monitoring, post-fire restoration, project prioritization, and project implementation
- Assist with development of watershed plans based on existing resources and community input
- Assist with contracting and coordination with consultant to assess post-fire restoration activities completed
- Participate in partner meetings relating to forest health and resilience planning, post-fire recovery, monitoring, and restoration
- Represent AWG at regional and statewide watershed functions
- Help coordinate California Climate Corps Action Fellow (AmeriCorps Member) in program planning and project development (if awarded)
Post-fire Restoration:
- Coordinate with agency partners and plan for the logistical needs of restoration projects in burned areas
- Assist with planning and implementation of volunteer workdays, including invasive plant removal, tree planting, and tree maintenance
Watershed Monitoring:
- Help to implement AWG’s annual monitoring plan
- Lead post-fire related monitoring, assist with water quality sampling, and help maintain equipment and lab supplies
- Help input, analyze, and report on collected data, including vegetation, water quality monitoring, and photo monitoring data
- Help implement quality assurance/control of monitoring data and maintenance of data organization/sharing
Volunteer Program:
- Help recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers for involvement in post-fire monitoring and restoration work
- Assist with the planning and coordination of volunteer water quality sampling events
Outreach & Marketing:
- Assist with planning and leading education activities and outreach events related to forest health and resilience, including bimonthly watershed group meetings
- Develop publicity materials as needed, including contributions to monthly newsletter and event flyers
- Assist with the maintenance of web outreach tools (e.g., website, social media, videos, StoryMaps) Fundraising &
Administration:
- Assist with grant and proposal writing for projects within scope of responsibility
- Assist with various other fundraising activities such as donation requests and sponsorships
- Maintain active program records and develop grant reports
- Assist with meeting planning, document development, and office maintenance
Qualifications:
- BS or BA in environmental science, natural resource management, fire ecology, or a related field preferred
- Coursework and field experience in botany or biology; ability to use keys for plant identification
- Experience with watershed restoration, vegetation monitoring, and data analysis
- Experience with fire recovery methods, fuels management, and forest health and resilience
- Demonstrated ability to facilitate meetings and manage groups
- Demonstrated ability to train, involve, and support volunteers
- Ability to both work independently and to work collaboratively as a team member
- Ability to manage multiple projects
- Proficient computer skills — word processing, database, and research; GIS desired
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
Trinity County Cone Corps Technician – Sierra Nevada Alliance and American Forests
Weaverville, California
Organizational Background:
American Forests is a national non-profit organization committed to creating healthy and resilient forests from cities to wilderness, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water, and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world in which the significant environmental, societal and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non-profit conservation organization in the U.S. working to restore urban forests and forested landscapes.
American Forests is proud to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible (DEIA) workplace. These are our shared values. We welcome individuals who bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences to be a part of our team to help make a difference individually and collectively as we work toward achieving our mission. We are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming and respectful and provides opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.
We hope you find a future with us.
Position Description:
In recent years, California forests have been devastated by historical mega-fires, and burned landscapes are at risk of a full-type conversion. The Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force Working Group has identified a reforestation opportunity of ~1.5 million acres across the state. SNAP 2022-23 Position Description Currently, California state seed banks do not have enough seeds to meet this need. To restore forest resilience in these areas at a meaningful pace and scale, cone collection must rapidly increase. American Forests is working to do so on private and public lands through collaboration with the United States Forest Service Region 5 (USFS R5) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE) through the Reforestation Pipeline Partnership (RPP) and the development of the California Cone Corps.
The Trinity County CA Cone Corps Technician (Technician) will directly contribute to an increase in cone monitoring and collection. The Technician will receive hands-on experience in the field of reforestation with guidance from industry experts. Additionally, they will contribute to American Forests, the Watershed Center, and Trinity County RCD efforts through assistance in administering seed collection contracts and evaluating cone crops. They may also assist American Forests, the Watershed Center and Trinity County RCD team members’ project management by providing feedback on their project’s successes and challenges. Further, they will have opportunities for their own professional development while helping to build the California Cone Corps program.
This position is a unique opportunity to be a part of a high-level reforestation project and contribute directly to the needs of California’s forest ecosystems, including post-fire recovery. It is a great chance to build a career in forestry and/or natural resources. The skills that will be gained through this position are in high demand.
Specific Responsibilities:
Monitoring and Inspection (75%)
- The Technician will support the statewide initiative to fill the state banks to ensure enough seeds are collected to fulfill climate-smart reforestation goals. They will do so through monitoring and reporting viable cone crops on public and private lands. Doing so includes the following:
- Driving, often offroad, to reach cone crops.
- Submitting reports through an application to state seed banks.
- Continually visiting viable cone crops to ensure correct collection timing.
- Shooting cones down off trees to cut and check viability and noting any insect or other signs of damage.
- At times, communicate with USFS and CAL FIRE seed bank managers.
Project Implementation (15%)
- Write contracts for cone collections and help organize the collections.
- Facilitate cone collections on the ground and help ensure cones reach the nursery safely to be processed.
Project Administration (10%)
- In addition, the Technician will be responsible for managing programmatic budgets, engaging with other colleagues, and supporting American Forests’, the Watershed Center’s and Trinity County RCD’s mission as needed.
Site-Specific Training Provided:
The Technician will develop a professional development plan that aligns with their goals and supports their success with American Forests. The professional development plan will be developed with the site supervisor in conjunction with the American Forests California Cone Corps Manager.
Additionally, the Technician will receive hands-on experience and training in determining seed maturity, insect identification, seed/cone recordkeeping, as well as safety procedures.
Things to Note:
The Technician position will be based in Weaverville, California at the Trinity County RCD and Watershed Center offices. They will be expected to work across forestlands surrounding Trinity County, including but not limited to Six-Rivers, Shasta-Trinity, and Mendocino National Forests, as well as on private lands within these areas. They will be expected to work with Resource Conservation Districts and nonprofits in the area to support their cone monitoring and collection planning efforts, within reason. Shifts may vary depending on the season. Some weekend shifts may be required.
Some office work will also be expected including recordkeeping, contract administration, attending meetings, writing reports, and emailing. At times, responsibilities may take place in a field setting.
Most days will be spent in the field where the Technician will be expected to stand, walk, or sit for long periods of time. The work does require lifting materials which may weigh up to 40 lbs. The field setting includes, but is not limited to the following:
1. Varying terrain and dense vegetation (possible exposure to wildlife, ticks, poison oak, and mosquitos), hot, wet, and cold conditions
2. Severely burned landscapes with standing dead trees and little/no shade coverage
Reforestation efforts in California have expanded in recent years, in part due to the efforts of American Forests. This rapid growth has led to an increase in job opportunities across the sector.
While employment is not guaranteed upon completion of the term, skills gained will be of value to the reforestation industry and to American Forests as our organization continues to grow.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Ability to work independently and self-manage to maintain productivity within American Forests and Trinity County RCD expectations.
- Valid Class C driver’s license, must be able to drive a rental truck in CA.
- Experience databasing and/or record keeping.
- Ability to work well within a team.
- Ability to commit to the full 675-hour term.
Desired Qualifications:
- Attention to detail, specifically in regard to project planning and tree, seed, and cone identification.
- Project planning or management experience.
- Reforestation project experience including site preparation.
- Ability to think creatively and problem-solve, with a willingness to find innovative solutions.
- Strong desire to work in a forest health-related career.
Feather River CA Cone Corps Technician – Sierra Nevada Alliance and American Forests
Quincy, California
Organizational Background:
American Forests is a national non-profit organization committed to creating healthy and resilient forests from cities to wilderness, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water, and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world in which the significant environmental, societal and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non-profit conservation organization in the U.S. working to restore urban forests and forested landscapes.
American Forests is proud to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible (DEIA) workplace. These are our shared values. We welcome individuals who bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences to be a part of our team to help make a difference individually and collectively as we work toward achieving our mission. We are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming and respectful and provides opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.
We hope you find a future with us.
Position Description:
In recent years, California forests have been devastated by historical mega-fires, and burned landscapes are at risk of a full-type conversion. The Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force Working Group has identified a reforestation opportunity of ~1.5 million acres across the state. Currently, California state seed banks do not have enough seeds to meet this need. To restore forest resilience in these areas at a meaningful pace and scale, cone collection must rapidly increase. American Forests is working to do so on private and public lands through collaboration with the United States Forest Service Region 5 (USFS R5) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE) through the Reforestation Pipeline Partnership (RPP) and the development of the California Cone Corps.
The Feather River CA Cone Corps Technician (Technician) will directly contribute to an increase in cone inventory data – which will help inform crop collections. The Feather River RCD CA Cone Corps Technician will receive hands-on experience in the field of reforestation with guidance from industry experts. Additionally, they will contribute to American Forests and Feather River RCD efforts through assistance in administering seed collection contracts and evaluating cone crops. They may also assist American Forests and Feather River RCD team members’ project management by providing feedback on their project’s successes and challenges. Further, they will have opportunities for their own professional development while helping to build the California Cone Corps program.
This position is a great opportunity to build a career in forestry and natural resources. The Technician will work across public and private lands building skills in conifer identification and cone phenology. They may have opportunities to support other landscape-level reforestation efforts or nursery management, when applicable. The selected candidate will gain in-demand skills including contract management, seed collection and saving, seedling production, and reforestation project planning.
Specific Responsibilities:
Monitoring and Inspection (75%)
- The Technician will support the statewide initiative to fill the state banks to ensure enough seeds are collected to fulfill climate-smart reforestation goals. They will do so through monitoring and reporting viable cone crops on public and private lands. Doing so includes the following:
- Driving, often offroad, to reach cone crops.
- Submitting reports through an application to state seed banks.
- Continually visiting viable cone crops to ensure correct collection timing.
- Shooting cones down off trees to cut and check viability and noting any insect or other signs of damage.
- At times, communicate with USFS and CAL FIRE seed bank staff.
Project Implementation (15%)
- Write contracts for cone collections and help organize the collections.
- Facilitate cone collections on the ground and help ensure cones reach the nursery safely to be processed.
Project Administration (10%)
- In addition, the Technician will be responsible for managing programmatic budgets, engaging with other colleagues, and supporting American Forests’ and Feather River RCD’s mission as needed.
Site-Specific Training Provided:
The Technician will develop a professional development plan that aligns with their goals and supports their success with American Forests. The professional development plan will be developed with the site supervisor in conjunction with the American Forests California Cone Corps Manager.
Additionally, the Technician will receive hands-on experience and training in determining seed maturity, insect identification, seed/cone recordkeeping, as well as safety procedures.
Location & Working Conditions:
The Technician position will be based in Quincy, California at the Feather River RCD office. They will be expected to travel and work across forestlands surrounding Plumas County, including but not limited to Plumas, Lassen, Tahoe, and Mendocino National Forests, as well as on private lands within these areas as permissions allow. While they will report to the Feather River RCD office, they will be expected to collaborate with other Resource Conservation Districts in the area as directed by American Forests to support their cone monitoring and collection planning efforts. Shifts may vary depending on the season. Some weekend shifts may be required.
Some office work will also be expected including recordkeeping, contract administration, attending meetings, writing reports, and emailing. At times, responsibilities may take place in a field setting. Most days will be spent in the field where the Feather River RCD CA Cone Corps Technician will be expected to drive, stand, walk, or sit for long periods of time. The work does require lifting materials which may weigh up to 40 lbs. The field setting includes, but is not limited to the following:
1. Varying terrain and dense vegetation (possible exposure to wildlife, ticks, poison oak, and mosquitos), hot, wet, and cold conditions
2. Severely burned landscapes with standing dead trees and little/no shade coverage Reforestation efforts in California have expanded in recent years, in part due to the efforts of American Forests. This rapid growth has led to an increase in job opportunities across the sector. While employment is not guaranteed upon completion of the term, skills gained will be of value to the reforestation industry and to American Forests as our organization continues
to grow.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Ability to work independently and self-manage to maintain productivity within American Forests and Feather River RCD expectations.
- Valid Class C driver’s license, must be able to drive a rental truck in CA.
- Experience databasing and/or record keeping.
- Ability to work well within a team.
- Ability to commit to the full 675-hour term.
Desired Qualifications:
- Attention to detail, specifically in regard to project planning and tree, seed, and cone identification.
- Project planning or management experience.
- Reforestation project experience including site preparation.
- Ability to think creatively and problem-solve, with a willingness to find innovative solutions.
- Strong desire to work in a forest health-related career.
Seed and Inventory Specialist – Sierra Nevada Alliance and American Forests
Placerville, California
Organizational Background:
American Forests is a national non-profit organization committed to creating healthy and resilient Forests, from cities to wilderness, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world in which the significant environmental, societal and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non-profit conservation organization in the U.S. working to restore urban forests and forested landscapes. American Forests is proud to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive and accessible (DEIA) workplace. These are our shared values. We welcome individuals who bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences to be a part of our team to help make a difference individually and collectively as we work toward achieving our mission. We are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming and respectful and provides opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.
We hope you find a future with us.
Position Description:
The Seed Need and Inventory Specialist (Specialist) will work on a cutting-edge climate-smart reforestation need for California – helping to determine gaps in the state’s seed bank. This position will support the work of American Forests’ California Reforestation Pipeline Partnership Manager on their work to develop California’s Seed Strategy. They will collaborate with the U.S. Forest Service Region 5 and will be based at the Placerville Nursery. This position will directly impact reforestation efforts in California, where mega-fires, ongoing drought, and disease have devastated critical forest ecosystems.
The Specialist will support the important work of sorting and entering data for 2019-2021 in order to bring the seed inventory up to date for those years and in doing so assist in the development of a Seed Needs Assessment. This data will guide the U.S. Forest Service as well as other agencies and organizations in their efforts to ensure California has adequate seed supply necessary for the reforestation efforts. Additionally, they will compile historical/archived seed bank inventory and at times, support the Placerville Nursery with operations.
This position is a unique entry-level opportunity to be a part of a high-level reforestation project and contribute directly to the needs of California’s forest ecosystems, including post-fire recovery. It is a chance to start a career in forestry and/or natural resources. The Fellow will receive guidance and mentorship and will have the opportunity to be considered for a permanent position by the end of the term.
Specific Responsibilities:
Data Sorting and Entry (75%)
- Transferring information from hard paper copies of seedlot information (cone handler’s checklist) into an excel spreadsheet to update and fill gaps in the seed bank inventory.
- Compiling data entry for 2018-2022, then prior 10-15 years.
- Communicating their findings and analysis with the U.S. Forest Service Placerville Nursery Manager, Regional Seed Procurement Manager and American Forests California Reforestation Pipeline Cooperative Manager.
Nursery Operations (15%)
- May occasionally be assigned to support cone and/or seed processing, seedling handling, and other assorted nursery operations and maintenance tasks as needed and assigned by the Placerville Nursery manager.
Project Administration (10%)
- In addition, the Specialist will be responsible for engaging with other colleagues, and supporting American Forests’ mission and the California Reforestation Pipeline Cooperative mission as needed.
Location and Working Conditions:
The Specialist will be based in Placerville, California at the US Forest Service Placerville Nursery in the Eldorado National Forest. The individual will have access to a computer containing the appropriate spreadsheets at the Placerville Nursery, thus a large portion of the work shall occur on-site at the nursery offices. Potential on-site housing may be available based on expressed need. Some weekend shifts may be required.
The work may require lifting materials which may weigh up to 40 lbs. Office work will also be expected including data entry, recordkeeping, attending meetings, writing reports and emailing.
Reforestation efforts in California have expanded in recent years, in part due to the efforts of American Forests. This rapid growth has led to an increase in job opportunities across the sector. While employment is not guaranteed upon completion of the term, skills gained will be of value to the reforestation industry and to American Forests’ as our organization continues to grow.
Site-Specific Training Provided:
Nursery operations, seed bank inventory data and data processes, seed needs analysis, hardware and software
and support for learning opportunities in reforestation industry.
Required Qualifications:
- Ability to work independently and gather the necessary information to complete assigned tasks.
- Must be able to read and accurately transfer data to specific form fields as directed during training.
- A background of educational or personal interest in forestry and/or reforestation, horticulture, and plant genetics is preferred.
- Ability to commit to the full Sierra Nevada Alliance AmeriCorps Partnership term.
Desired Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics, Natural Resources, or a related field.
- Experience in data sorting and entry and software utilized to do so (Microsoft Excel).
- A background of educational or personal interest in forestry and/or reforestation, horticulture, and plant genetics is preferred.
- Ability to think creatively, and problem solve, with a willingness to find innovative solutions.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand/sit for long periods.
- Ability to lift 40 lbs.
- Repetitive tasks with few breaks.
- At times, work in adverse weather conditions including but not limited to high heat, rain, snow, smoke, dust, and cold temperatures (within reason).
Field Assistant: Vegetation Monitoring – Sierra Nevada Alliance and Inyo County Water Department
Independence, California
Organizational Background:
The Inyo County Water Department is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada, and monitors the vegetation, soil water, and hydrology within the Owens Valley, CA. It operates in keeping with a Long Term Water Agreement (LTWA) with the City of Los Angeles to manage ground and surface water exportation to supply the city of Los Angeles, while maintaining local environmental conditions in the Owens Valley and the Owens River watershed.
One of the primary LTWA goals is to manage water resources while maintaining vegetation community types in the Owens Valley in the same condition as existed during a ‘baseline’ period (1984-1987). The Inyo County Water Department (ICWD) thus monitors a variety of vegetation types, including within ground water dependent (phreatophytic) and riparian vegetation communities, as well as monitoring: hydrologic conditions in subsurface test wells, surface water flows, and soil moisture at sites across the Owens Valley from the Pleasant Valley Dam in the north to Owens Lake in the south. ICWD has participated in cooperative studies to better understand water needs of groundwater dependent vegetation communities and has a substantial long term vegetation community dataset. We also assess mitigation project conditions across the valley including a large scale river re-watering and restoration project on the Lower Owens River through which we work collaboratively and adaptively with several parties to realize project goals. To learn more, visit this website.
Position Description:
The Water Department’s SNAP member will be primarily responsible for field vegetation sampling across Owens Valley, CA, which spans from just north of Bishop to just south of Lone Pine. Owing to the various types of environmental monitoring data which ICWD collects, the SNAP member will be exposed to various vegetation, soil, or hydrologic sampling techniques. Primary activities will involve vegetation sampling as part of novel riparian studies or within groundwater-dependent vegetation communities.
Riparian studies will involve working in a crew of 2 or 3 with a team leader, locating new transect startpoints, setting up transects, marking start and end locations, recording vegetation along the centerline, recording canopy cover, and identifying and recording riparian tree positions within a 10-m wide belt transect. At these riparian transects members may also collect soil samples, record fluvial geomorphic surfaces, or assist in collecting tree core samples. Ongoing long-term vegetation monitoring includes revisiting permanent vegetation transects within groundwater-dependent vegetation using a combination of GPS and printed maps, and identifying and recording plant species present. SNAP members will also be involved in assessments of riparian tree recruitment sites on the lower Owens River to help identify locations for future restoration work, such as recording riparian sapling size and height measurements, and possible vegetation removals to assess the role of competition in successful tree recruitment. Finally, SNAP members will assist in condition assessment at mitigation sites identified in the Long Term Water Agreement to help determine if goals are being met.
Site-Specific Training Provided:
- Line point vegetation sampling technique
- Vegetation identification skills
- Riparian vegetation sampling techniques including running belt transects, identification of fluvial geomorphic surface types, and riparian tree species
- Assist with tree core sampling
- Use of a spherical densiometer and a GRS tube densitometer for measuring tree canopy
- Training for work in adverse conditions
- ArcGIS data collection and navigation
Things to Note:
Our office is located in Independence, CA, and fieldwork is typically based out of Bishop, CA. This location is adjacent to many hiking trails and outdoor activities in the eastern Sierra Nevada. The work schedule involves 10 hour shifts Monday-Thursday and may start as early as 5:30-6:00 am to manage heat exposure.
Required qualifications:
- Must be a US Citizen, U.S. National or Lawful Permanent Resident Alien of the U.S.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
- Minimum of 18 years or older
- Applicants must have the ability to lift and hike with 30lbs over rough terrain, be outside up to 9 hours a day in summer conditions (maximum temperatures to 105 °F)
- Adhere to any COVID-19 related safety measures required by the State or County
Desired qualifications:
- Principles of biology, botany, ecology, hydrology, and/or soil science
- Principles of data collection; basic mathematics; the environment
- Geography of the Owens Valley
- Basic first aid
- Possess a valid operator’s license issued by the State Department of Motor Vehicles
Education Coordinator – Sierra Nevada Alliance and Eastern Sierra Land Trust
Bishop, California
Position Description:
Our Community Connection Program offers people of all ages the opportunity to connect with the land, by providing a diverse range of educational and community activities, including: the incredibly popular and in-demand East Side Pollinator Garden Project, field trips and workshops (wildflower and bird identification walks, wildlife migration corridor hikes, geology walks, pollinator garden workshops); youth education programs; hands-on stewardship (i.e. invasive plant removal, river clean-ups); and community celebrations (picnics, locally-produced food feasts, and our annual “Lands & Legacy” celebration weekend). ESLT’s programs are available for the 30,000 area residents and the estimated three million annual visitors who rely on the region’s iconic landscapes and open space for recreation and renewal.
ESLT’s Education Coordinator and AmeriCorps member will expand, develop and deliver high quality youth and adult environmental educational programs for the organization by involving our community and members in certifying pollinator-friendly gardens, field trips, seminars, workshops, and restoration and stewardship projects.
Our Education Coordinator will be involved in watershed restoration and enhancement, including:
- Implementation, recruitment, and community education about the Eastside Pollinator Garden Project
- Collaboration and coordination of habitat restoration projects that include the Round Valley Mule Deer herd
- Collaboration with local organizations and other AmeriCorps members in the area
- Design, production, and distribution of education materials that increase public awareness and support for effective watershed and habitat protection and enhancement
- Outreach and presentations to community groups, citizen sciences, and stakeholders
- Develop and organize effective restoration and education events such as The Great Sierra River Clean-Up, Mule Deer Migration Tour, pollinator workshops and demonstration events, and Scenic Highway 395 clean-up
- Utilizing GIS to make maps for outreach, presentations, and citizen science involvement; recruitment and management of program-related volunteers
- Occasional assistance with land stewardship projects
Site-Specific Training Provided:
ESLT will train our new SNAP Member. Additional trainings will be provided that fit with our new SNAP member’s career and professional goals.
Things to Note:
Applicants should possess a college degree, or the equivalent work experience, with a focus and interest in environmental education, biology, human/public health, ecology, environmental science, or related field; high level of energy and passion for ESLT’s mission, preserved lands, and the region’s important watersheds. Excellent communication skills, interest in and general knowledge of pollinators and native plants, biology, good physical conditioning, and ability to navigate and travel in the outdoors are required qualifications. Interest in working with youth to plant and maintain our school sunflower garden and the public through outreach efforts will be helpful. Ability to hike through creeks and vegetation and be on your feet for up to 10 hours a day, and the ability to work in the office sitting at a computer station for up to 8 hours a day. Tolerance and appreciation for various viewpoints are also necessary for living in a remote rural environment. A sense of humor and team player orientation is always a plus.
ESLT staff and board will assist with introductions to Eastern Sierra living for our AmeriCorps member. Fresh food and baked goods show up at unexpected times, and the office has a full shower and is within walking distance to “downtown”. Living in a safe and small town surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery and endless outdoor recreational opportunities is a priceless and unequaled benefit! This is a hybrid position, with the understanding that ESLT provides a fully functioning office is Bishop, where all equipment and supplies are made available. It is a requirement to adhere to all ESLT’s policies and procedures and provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination status.
Northern California Reforestation Coordinator – Sierra Nevada Alliance, Sierra Corps Forestry Fellowship
Georgetown, California
Background on Sierra Corps Forestry Fellowship Program:
Sierra Corps is a Forestry Fellowship program implemented by the Sierra Nevada Alliance that aims to increase workforce capacity for forest health restoration, biomass utilization, and wildfire resilience projects in the Sierra Nevada. The Alliance places Fellows with partners throughout the region for forest-health-related employment. Fellows bring their education, skills, and expertise to engage in paid fellowships that provide assistance in assessment, planning, permitting, project management, and other essential forest restoration and wildfire resilience work. The Sierra Corp is a program that allows you to advance your career in environmental conservation and forest health by working as a forest
project coordinator and contribute to the increase in pace and scale of forest restoration at a time when it is critically needed.
For this position, you will be a Fellow for Sierra Nevada Alliance, completing your fellowship and working under direct supervision by American Forests.
Host Site Description:
American Forests is a national non-profit organization committed to creating healthy and resilient forests from cities to wilderness, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world in which the significant environmental, societal and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non-profit conservation organization in the U.S. working to restore urban forests and forested landscapes.
American Forests is proud to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive and accessible (DEIA) workplace. These are our shared values. We welcome individuals who bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences to be a part of our team to help make a difference individually and collectively as we work toward achieving our mission. We are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming and respectful and provides opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.
We hope you find a future with us.
Position Description:
The Northern Reforestation Coordinator (Coordinator) will work on a cutting-edge climate-smart reforestation project in the Eldorado National Forest. This position will support the work of American Forests’ Northern California Reforestation Manager on their post-fire restoration efforts across the over 97,700 acres burned in the 2014 King Fire. They will collaborate with the U.S. Forest Service Region 5 and will be based at their Georgetown Ranger Station. This position will directly impact reforestation efforts in California, where mega-fires, ongoing drought, and disease have devastated critical forest ecosystems.
The restoration efforts will include working on the King Fire scar to:
- Inspect and monitor post-fire restoration treatments
- Conduct some citizen-science volunteer coordination
- Support ongoing reforestation projects on the Caldor Fire and Mosquito Fire scars
The Coordinator will join a team of individuals dedicated to climate-smart reforestation. This position is a unique entry-level opportunity to be a part of a high-level reforestation project and contribute directly to the needs of California’s forest ecosystems, including post-fire recovery. It is a great chance to build a career in forestry and/or natural resources. The Coordinator will receive guidance and mentorship with the goal of placing the Fellow in a permanent position by the end of the term.
Specific Responsibilities:
Monitoring and Inspection (45%)
- Establish monitoring plots for different planting techniques including, but not limited to, comparing survival and growth outcomes of strategic planting and even-spaced planting, low-elevation sourced seedlings and high-elevation sourced seedlings, and bare root vs. container seedlings
- May support meadow restoration, cone/seed surveying and collection, monitoring, and prescribed fire work
- GIS planning and data analysis
Project Implementation (35%)
- Coordinate and conduct inspection and monitoring of post-fire restoration treatments on the King Fire Scar in the El Dorado National Forest
- Support in all work surrounding the implementation of King Fire scar post-fire restoration
- May support efforts in nearby fire-scars such as the Caldor and Mosquito Fire scars
Volunteer Coordination (10%)
- Supporting a 2-year-old citizen science volunteer program with an active volunteer base
- Coordinate one-time volunteer events such as hosting volunteer plantings, a hand-thinning project, and monitoring efforts
Project Administration (10%)
- In addition, the Northern California Reforestation Coordinator will be responsible for managing programmatic budgets, engaging with other colleagues, and supporting American Forests’ mission as needed.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Ability to work independently and gather the necessary information to complete assigned tasks.
- Experience with forest monitoring and assessment including establishing monitoring plots.
- Strong desire to work in a forest health-related career, ideally in the Sierra.
- Clean driving record and Standard Class C California Driver’s License.
- Ability to commit to the 6-month term.
Desired Qualifications:
- 1-2 years of combined experience with the following:
- Forest health monitoring and assessment
- Conservation planning
- Project management
- Natural Resource-based fieldwork
- Environmental analysis and research
- Some experience utilizing GIS mapping software.
- Reforestation project experience including site preparation.
- Ability to think creatively, and problem solve, with a willingness to find innovative solutions.
- Strong desire to work in a forest health-related career, ideally in the Sierra.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for long periods.
- Ability to lift 40 lbs.
- Repetitive tasks with few breaks.
- Work in adverse weather conditions including but not limited to high heat, rain, snow, smoke, dust, and cold temperatures (within reason).
- At times, walk, hike, or stand for extended periods of time with others and alone in steep, rugged, brushy, and/or remote terrain under adverse weather conditions.