California’s water system is one of the most heavily engineered on the planet. California takes water from rivers, streams and aquifers and we do it with very few limits, leaving rivers to run dry, putting nature and people at risk. The Nature Conservancy’s California Water Program is working to secure a more prepared and sustainable future by developing the science, tools, demonstrations and enabling conditions to ensure we can meet the water needs of communities, nature, and the economy. Our multi-disciplinary team employs a variety of innovative strategies to provide natural areas with the water and habitat they need, including by developing ground-breaking science, engaging through policy, and collaboratively managing water resources with communities, farms, and ranches. The Healthy Rivers strategy is working to ensure that rivers are protected as an integral part of a more resilient water future for California. Our team focuses on three main drivers of river flow alteration: groundwater depletion, ill-timed or unsustainable diversions, and dams.
WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU
The River Scientist will work closely with this interdisciplinary team to provide technical and scientific support to river conservation strategies across the Water Program, primarily within the Healthy Rivers strategy. This position will provide science support on projects that seek to restore or protect needed flow, improve instream habitat, and develop scientific tools to enable better management of California’s rivers and streams. Working closely with the Lead River Scientist, the River Scientist will perform a variety of analytical tasks, including reviewing and summarizing plans and reports, performing analysis of flow data, and evaluating the ecological implications of flow and stream restoration actions. The River Scientist will also assist with writing of reports and publications, grant administration, development of technical presentations, and managing science contracts.
The River Scientist will report to the Lead River Scientist within TNC California and will work closely with other senior scientists on the water team, as well as project directors leading work across the state on groundwater management and managed recharge, flow enhancement, stream habitat restoration, and water supplies for wetlands. The location for this position is anywhere within California and the River Scientist will need to be available to travel occasionally to project sites across the state.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
· Master's Degree in freshwater ecology, fisheries, hydrology or a related field and 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
· Experience leading and working with cross functional teams, and building relationships across public, private, and NGO sectors.
· Experience managing complex projects including the financial aspect and coordinating the work of peers and partners.
· Experience synthesizing, interpreting, and communicating scientific information and preparing reports of findings (written and verbal).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
· Strong knowledge of common software applications, including R or Python.
· Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals.
· Strong interpersonal skills, including experience fostering an inclusive environment.
· Experience with hydrologic data, instream flow methods, and/or fisheries science.
· Familiarity with California water policy, including the key agencies responsible for implementing regulations.
· Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
WHAT WE BRING
Each person who works at TNC contributes to our goal of protecting nature for future generations. Another one of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe feel that their unique contributions are valued. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “You’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.” To learn more, head to YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
We’re proud to support the health and wellbeing of the people we employ. We offer a competitive, comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare coverage, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, and other benefits that support work-life balance.
If you’re interested in working with us, please apply—we’d love to hear from you.
SALARY INFORMATION
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $80,000 – $100,000 for annual base salary.
San Francisco Bay area: $85,100 - $100,000
Merced, Redding, Roseville, Sacramento, Santa Cruz, Truckee: $78,000 - $91,725
Chico, Fort Bragg: $80,000 - $83,375
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. 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.