CCWG Restoration Project Specialist

Overview

OUR STATEMENT
The San Jose State University Research Foundation (SJSURF) is committed to building a work environment where everyone can show up as their own self and have an opportunity to contribute, develop, and advance in their career. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are core values of the organization. We strive to attract, retain, and develop employees who reflect the community and society where we work and live.

The Research Foundation aims to develop a culture where everyone feels welcome, shares their views, and where differences in backgrounds and perspectives are seen as adding value.

GENERAL NATURE OF POSITION
The Central Coast Wetlands Group (CCWG) is an affiliate research group at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) located in the Monterey Bay Region of Central California. Our focus is the study, preservation and restoration of Central Coast wetlands. CCWG works closely with local, state, and federal agencies to implement science-based strategies that improve ecosystem resilience and address the growing impacts of climate change.

The group is actively involved in innovative multi-benefit projects that integrate habitat restoration, flood protection, and community benefits with climate change adaptation to enhance the resilience of coastal ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

CCWG is looking for someone with broad skills and experiences to help lead a thriving 20-year organization that has deep roots and ties to the Monterey Bay Region and throughout California. This position provides an exciting opportunity to join a strong team to help implement $10 million dollars of existing grants dedicated to planning and implementing multi-benefit water resource projects over the next 2.5 years and work with leadership to obtain additional funding for the future.

We are looking for the right person with a strong background in science and conservation, and importantly, someone who is dedicated, creative, hardworking, and enjoys wearing many hats. If you are excited by the opportunities and challenges offered in this position, we encourage you to apply! We welcome previous applicants to reapply if you are still interested, as this position remains open and is being reposted.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
This position supports the on-the-ground implementation and ongoing maintenance of habitat restoration projects led by the Central Coast Wetlands Group. The role involves hands-on fieldwork, equipment operation, and collaboration with project and monitoring staff. Ideal candidates will have experience with restoration practices, tool and equipment maintenance, and a strong interest in wetland and habitat conservation. Duties and responsibilities include:

• Implement restoration and maintenance activities at restoration sites, including weed whacking, mowing, planting, watering, light earthwork, and equipment maintenance (e.g., pipes, pumps, tools).
• Maintain tools, equipment, and property owned by the Central Coast Wetlands Group (CCWG).
• Troubleshoot and resolve flow-related issues in treatment wetlands.
• Operate large equipment as needed for site preparation and maintenance.
• Assist in the development of plant palettes and ecological restoration designs.
• Support the restoration project coordinator in creating and managing work plans for restoration projects in collaboration with CCWG staff.
• Collaborate with the habitat monitoring specialist to conduct site monitoring and support additional research activities as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS
Reports to CCWG program director.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
N/A

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent level of experience in environmental science, environmental planning, ecology, natural resource management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in land conservation, environmental restoration, watershed restoration, or water resource management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of the native flora and fauna of the central coast across multiple coastal habitats.
• Experience in standardized habitat monitoring techniques.
• Ability to effectively communicate with the public and partnering organizations.
• Knowledge of Microsoft and Google Suite applications.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work outside in inclement weather conditions when necessary.
• Ability to walk a mile while carrying up to 20 pounds of equipment and traverse over rough terrain to remote field sites.
• Ability to travel overnight occasionally for fieldwork, conferences, and meetings.

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the SJSURF. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or the continued employment of current SJSURF employees who apply for the position.

NOTE:

This position description intends to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people…