CONSERVATION PROJECT MANAGER FOREST HEALTH AND FIRE RESILIENCY

The Colusa County Resource Conservation District (CCRCD) is a local public agency dedicated to helping landowners and
land managers conserve and enhance natural resources through voluntary, incentive-based programs. CCRCD is a key
partner in the Inner Coast Collaborative, a regional effort funded by the California Department of Conservation’s
Regional Forest and Fire Capacity (RFFC) program.
Our current projects include forest and fuels management, soil health, water conservation, and natural resource
education. We work closely with partners such as CalFire, NRCS, UC Ag Advisors, local governments, landowners, and
schools.
Position Summary
CCRCD is seeking a dynamic and motivated Conservation Program Manager to lead our Forest Health and Fire
Resiliency Program, including oversight of CCRCD’s role in the RFFC Block Grant. This position will manage local and
regional projects, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and support planning and implementation efforts that improve
wildfire resilience and forest health in Colusa County and the broader Inner Coast Region.
A successful Program Manager at CCRCD will be a results-driven leader who advances forest health and wildfire
resilience by developing high-impact, shovel-ready projects and leveraging RFFC funds to secure sustainable revenue
streams. They support underserved communities and Tribes, build formal partnerships, and expand local capacity
through training, outreach, and technical assistance. This role includes supervising staff, supporting the development of
Prescribed Burn Associations (PBAs), and facilitating workshops, presentations, and implementation of the CCRCD’s
strategic plan. The Program Manager also fosters workforce development by creating local fire resiliency jobs and
hosting professional development opportunities for both CCRCD staff and the broader community.
In addition, the Program Manager plays a critical role in the development of the Inner Coast Collaborative’s Regional
Priority Plan, contributing to key outcomes such as stakeholder engagement, project identification and prioritization,
and data-driven planning. They will help implement a multi-tiered engagement strategy, support the integration of
geospatial and planning data, and collaborate with regional partners to build a robust, community-informed framework
for wildfire resilience. Their leadership ensures CCRCD’s efforts are aligned with regional goals and that the district
remains a vital force in ecological restoration and wildfire preparedness across the Inner Coast Region.
Key Responsibilities
Program & Project Management
• Lead CCRCD’s Forest Health and Fire Resiliency Program and RFFC-funded initiatives.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, deliverables, and grant compliance.
• Oversee planning and implementation of forest and fuels management projects (e.g., defensible space,
prescribed burns, reforestation, fuel breaks).
• Supervise and develop California Vegetation Treatment Program (CalVTP) projects.
• Oversee updates to the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
• Facilitate the Colusa County Fire Safe Council and explore forming a Prescribed Burn Association.
• Represent CCRCD in the Inner Coast Collaborative and regional planning efforts.
• Build relationships with local, state, and federal fire authorities and community groups.
• Participate in Firescape Mendocino and other regional stakeholder meetings.
Reporting & Compliance
• Prepare and submit quarterly fiscal reports and monthly updates to Napa RCD (RFFC lead).
• Track and report project metrics, accomplishments, and leveraged funds.
• Maintain organized records of grant activities and communications.
Outreach & Capacity Building
• Represent CCRCD at community events and outreach activities.
• Contribute to newsletters and public communications.
• Assist with stakeholder engagement and development of regional priority plans.
Qualifications
Required
• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, forestry, fire science, environmental science, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in program management.
• Strong understanding of forest health, wildfire behavior, and vegetation management.
• Experience with grant writing, budgeting, and compliance.
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
• Valid CA driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Physically able to work in the field (lift 50 lbs., hike, plant, etc.).
Preferred
• Master’s degree in a related field.
100 Sunrise Boulevard,
Suite A-3
Colusa, CA 95932
(530) 473-9346
• Experience with RCDs or local government agencies.
• Familiarity with DOC grant programs and the Inner Coast Region.
• Experience with GIS (ArcGIS), GPS, and permitting restoration projects.
• Wildland firefighting experience and ability to tow a trailer.
Compensation & Benefits
• Hourly Rate: $35.00–$42.00/hour DOE
• Additional Pay: $3.00/hour monthly lump sum
• Retirement: Up to 5% employer match for 457 plan
• Leave: Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Flexibility: Remote work options and flexible scheduling
• Work Environment: Supportive, fast-paced, and mission-driven team
Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Liz Harper at [email protected]. This
position is open until filled. In your cover letter, describe your relevant experience and your interest in advancing forest