The Program Assistant position offers an incredible opportunity to gain valuable experience working with innovative landowners and partners to address Sonoma County’s most pressing natural resource concerns. This unique position allows for a diverse workload both in the office and field. The Program Assistant will work alongside other staff to provide support for all RCD program areas, in pursuit of multiple resource goals such as water quality, drought and fire resilience, soil heath, and climate-beneficial farming. The individual must be highly motivated, enjoy working in a team environment, have strong attention to detail and organizational skills, be flexible to changing workload priorities, have strong written and verbal communication skills, and have an ability to execute assignments efficiently and in a timely manner.
Essential Functions
- Assist in preparing LandSmart farm conservation plans including field data collection, research, writing, and mapping.
- Assist with field work, including but not limited to soil sampling, field and biological surveys, and technical assistance site visits.
- Prepare permit applications, CEQA documentation, and support staff throughout implementation of LandSmart On-the-Ground projects with construction monitoring.
- Support drafting subcontracts and landowner agreements.
- Complete property inventories or project mapping using ArcGIS.
- Support planning and delivery of youth and community conservation programs.
- Attend community meetings, events, and workshops on behalf of the RCD.
- Assist with grant proposals and administration.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Required Qualifications
- Combination of education and experience, typically equivalent to possession of a Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management or related field.
- Proficiency with ArcGIS, Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Experience with field work, including conservation/restoration projects.
- Interest in educating youth and attending community events as a public representative of the RCD.
- Highly motivated to take on new projects with the flexibility to work independently or as part of a team.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in written form, sufficient to convey information and instructions to the public, colleagues, and Board members.
- Competency in establishing cooperative working relationships and exceptional interpersonal skills.
- Flexible hours required, including some weekday nights and weekends, to attend community events, meetings, and conferences.
- Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of employment.
- A valid driver’s license, vehicle, and proof of auto insurance is required at the time of hire.
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity with North Coast ecosystems and environmental issues, sustainable forestry, and natural resource conservation practices and principles.
- Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, both verbally and in written form, sufficient to convey information and instructions to the public.
- Experience with Microsoft 365 applications.
Work Environment
Work is performed in an indoor/outdoor setting to include:
- Field settings that include various terrains, dense vegetation (with possible exposure poison oak, ticks, and mosquitos), and hot, cold, and wet conditions.
- A professional office environment that includes operation of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, calculators, and filing cabinets.