The Coastal San Luis Resource Conservation District (CSLRCD) is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Environmental Resource Specialist to support a diverse portfolio of ecological restoration, watershed conservation, agricultural, and natural resource management projects throughout coastal San Luis Obispo County. This position provides an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys balancing fieldwork with office-based project support while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local communities and natural resources.

Working alongside Project Managers and technical staff, the Environmental Resource Specialist will assist with restoration implementation, environmental monitoring, GIS mapping, outreach, agricultural conservation, and project development. The successful candidate will support a variety of District programs throughout the year, including the native dune restoration program at Oceano Dunes State Park, watershed restoration initiatives, agricultural conservation projects, and community education and outreach efforts.

This position requires a self-motivated individual with strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. The Environmental Resource Specialist will report to the appropriate Project Manager while coordinating with multiple staff members across District programs to support successful project implementation.

This position is based in Morro Bay, California, with fieldwork conducted throughout coastal San Luis Obispo County. The position includes a combination of office and field work, with limited opportunities for remote work depending on project needs. Frequent travel throughout the District is required, along with occasional evening or weekend work to support outreach events, volunteer activities, or project implementation.

Job Duties

Project Implementation

● Support the District's native dune restoration program at Oceano Dunes State Park through revegetation efforts, invasive species management, and monitoring.
● Conduct vegetation monitoring, GPS data collection, soil sampling, water quality sampling, flow monitoring, and other field data collection activities.
● Support agricultural conservation projects by assisting with the Mobile Irrigation Laboratory (MIL) Program, and conservation planning activities.
● Assist with restoration installation activities, including native planting, irrigation installation, erosion control measures, and invasive species removal.
● Operate and maintain field equipment while following District safety procedures and best management practices.

Technical Support

● Assist with GIS mapping and spatial data collection using ArcGIS Pro or similar geographic information system software.
● Prepare and maintain accurate field records, monitoring data, and project documentation.
● Assist with permit application preparation, technical reports and other project deliverables.
● Support contractor coordination and project implementation activities.
● Perform data entry, quality assurance, and organization of electronic project files.

Education, Outreach, and Communication

● Assist with planning and facilitating educational workshops, volunteer events, outreach activities, and community engagement opportunities.
● Develop educational materials and other project-specific outreach resources.
● Communicate professionally with landowners, agricultural producers, partner agencies, volunteers, and members of the public.

Administration and Other Duties

● Assist with project scheduling, logistics, and coordination.
● Maintain field equipment, supplies, and project inventories.
● Support grant reporting by documenting project activities and assisting with project tracking.
● Coordinate with District staff to support timely completion of project deliverables.
● Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills, Knowledge, and Certifications
Required Skills and Experience

● Bachelor's degree in environmental science, natural resources, biology, ecology, agriculture, watershed management, or a related field.
● 2 to 3 years experience working in ecological restoration, natural resource management, agriculture, environmental consulting, or a related field.
● Experience collecting field data and preparing technical documentation.
● Strong written and verbal communication skills.
● Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative team.
● Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
● Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and ArcGISPro or similar software.
● Valid California driver's license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.

Desired Skills and Experience

● Experience conducting irrigation evaluations
● Familiarity with conservation planning frameworks
● Familiarity with water quality monitoring equipment and field sampling procedures.
● Experience supporting CEQA, NEPA, or environmental permitting efforts.
● Experience implementing restoration or invasive species management projects.
● Familiarity with the watersheds and natural resources of San Luis Obispo County.
● Experience supporting grant-funded projects.
● Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish.

Physical Requirements
This position involves working in diverse outdoor environments that include uneven terrain, dense vegetation, and exposure to poison oak, ticks, mosquitoes, dust, and varying weather conditions. Field work may occur in hot, cold, wet, or windy conditions. The position also requires working in a professional office environment utilizing computers, phones, printers, GPS units, and other office and field equipment.

Compensation and Benefits
The anticipated hiring range for this position is $25.00–$28.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time position. CSLRCD offers a competitive compensation package that includes generous paid time off (in lieu of paid holidays), a three percent employer contribution to a SIMPLE IRA retirement plan, sick leave, health benefits, and professional development opportunities. This position is subject to a 90-day probationary period.