Restoration Manager

~ Laguna Canyon Foundation is dedicated to preserving, protecting, enhancing and promoting the South Coast Wilderness – a network of open space that includes Laguna Coast Wilderness Park & Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in Orange County, California. ~

Following the historic events of the November 1989 March to Save Laguna Canyon and the passage of the twenty million dollar bond measure by Laguna Beach voters in November 1990, Laguna Canyon Foundation was formed to help with the preservation of Laguna Canyon. Together with the City of Laguna Beach, County of Orange, and the State of California, Laguna Canyon Foundation purchased sections of the canyon slated for development, and established Laguna Coast Wilderness Park in 1993. The partnership continues with the nationally recognized James and Rosemary Nix Nature Center and interpretive exhibits, and the more than 200 Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers who help OC Parks manage these unique coastal canyons. 

About the South Coast Wilderness Area:

The South Coast Wilderness comprises 20,000 contiguous acres of parks, including Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Parks, Crystal Cove State Park and the City of Irvine Open Space South. Managed and supported by various government and nonprofit entities, these areas link seamlessly to provide almost 30 square miles of pristine wildlife habitat. Surrounded by Orange County’s busy network of freeways and cities, the South Coast Wilderness provides an increasingly rare and valuable refuge for urban dwellers seeking natural beauty and solitude. Visitors can discover the county’s only natural lakes, a thriving wildlife community, nature centers and interpretive programs, volunteer opportunities, and recreational activities from hiking and birding to mountain biking. Enjoy exploring our precious South Coast Wilderness, and remember to KEEP IT WILD!

Position Overview

Laguna Canyon Foundation is seeking a Restoration Manager.

Responsibilities

This position performs duties including but not limited to:

Restoration Project Management:

• Plan, manage and evaluate multiple habitat restoration projects
• Conduct site assessments and create habitat management and/or restoration plans
• Develop restoration project schedules and budgets
• Prepare documentation for permitting processes
• Supervise, train and mentor seasonal Restoration Technicians
• Communicate effectively with project contractors and program staff to accomplish site preparation, plant installation and site maintenance tasks
• Conduct and/or oversee vegetation and wildlife monitoring
• Prepare maps and other exhibits using Arc Map and/or other mapping, image management and publishing software
• Prepare progress reports for project stakeholders
• Conduct monthly reconciliations for managed projects including staff time and expenses
• Prepare project reimbursement requests
• Work with Restoration Team to coordinate work between projects and create weekly schedules and prioritized task lists
• Develop stakeholder relationships and actively seek out and identify opportunities for future projects and funding sources
• Assist with project development including identifying funding opportunities, assisting with writing grant proposals, and creating cost estimates
• Assist with coordinating and leading volunteer events (approximately one 3-to-4-hour event per month, may require working on a weekend day)
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in ecology or related field AND 4 or more years of experience in field biology, habitat restoration or related field; OR 5 or more years of experience in field biology, habitat restoration or related field
• Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn to identify local native and non-native plants
• Familiarity and experience with use of handheld GPS units and mapping software
• Has or can obtain California Pesticide Applicator License/Certificate
• Basic computer literacy and the ability to quickly learn new computer programs
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal and written communications skills
• Highly-motivated and a proven self-starter with the ability to work independently
• Proven experience working outdoors in all conditions
• Ability and willingness to work some weekend hours and evening hours as necessary
• Access to a reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license and required insurance coverage, and willingness to use vehicle for work purposes (mileage reimbursement available)
• Passionate about Laguna Canyon Foundation’s mission
• Able to perform the Essential Functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations (see below)

Starting Salary and Benefits:

• $40,000-$45,000 annually, depending on experience
• 2 weeks vacation per year plus paid holidays and sick days
• LCF makes contributions towards employee health insurance and retirement benefits

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to email resume and cover letter.