POSITION SUMMARY:

The Watershed Stewardship Coordinator is a full-time exempt staff position with the Western Slope Conservation Center (WSCC) in Paonia, Colorado. This position provides a unique opportunity to make lasting positive change on the spectacular and diverse lands and water on Colorado’s Western Slope.

The Watershed Stewardship Coordinator will develop and execute successful stewardship projects aimed at protecting and enhancing the lands, water and natural resources of the Western Slope. This position will work closely with the Executive Director to develop strategic programmatic vision, create and implement effective projects throughout the watershed, and identify, help manage and secure funding opportunities. The Stewardship Coordinator is committed to science-based approaches to conservation and restoration, and is interested and skilled in working with a diverse set of stakeholders to achieve common goals. Strong communications, networking, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously is expected. The successful candidate is a self-starter with strong teamwork skills.

The Stewardship Coordinator works under the direct supervision of the Executive Director. The position will include opportunities for professional development and networking within local, regional, statewide and national networks.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Watershed Stewardship Coordinator responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

● Program Management: Collaborate with Executive Director, WSCC Board, and external partners to develop and execute successful watershed stewardship assessments, plans,
and projects
     ○ Guide identification and prioritization of watershed programs, projects, and needs; lead implementation of studies, assessments, and on-the-ground restoration projects
     ○ Oversee all activities at the Paonia River Park
     ○ Develop and execute outreach and engagement strategies across a diverse network of partners and stakeholders
     ○ Coordinate with staff to monitor and engage on water-related policy issues and strengthen organizational partnerships
     ○ Recruit, train, and support volunteers for WSCC’s River Watch program and other in-field volunteer opportunities.

● Grant Management and Development: Work with the Executive Director to:
     ○ Research, identify, and pursue diverse funding opportunities including federal, state, and private foundation grants aligned with program goals and priorities.

     ○ Write compelling proposals that effectively communicate program impact, community benefit, and organizational capacity to prospective funders
     ○ Manage new and existing grants funds by working with the Executive Director, WSCC staff, and contractors to ensure accomplishment of proposals, deliverables, and reporting
     ○ Work with ED and WSCC finance staff to manage grant budgets

● Communication & Outreach: Promote and publicize WSCC’s stewardship work by:
     ○ Using traditional and digital outlets, including social media, newsletters, blog posts and articles to communicate WSCC successes and vision
     ○ Organizing educational events and materials as appropriate
     ○ Supporting the watershed stewardship volunteer committee by attending meetings, working with the committee chair to guide program engagement, and supporting committee events and outreach activities as necessary

● General organizational support as needed: support broader organizational efforts by assisting with organizational events, fundraising, special projects, mentorship, strategy,
and board engagement

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

● Degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, natural resource management or related field
● Collaborative, outgoing, personable, and enthusiastic
● Excellent writing, speaking and interpersonal skills
● Excellent organizational and office skills
● Demonstrated ability to lead successful projects while aligning a diverse community of stakeholders
● Experience with grant writing, management, and reporting
● Ability to work independently and self-directed as part of a high-functioning team
● Ability to carry out field work
● Familiarity with watershed stewardship and water issues in the western US and Colorado
● Strong commitment to watershed conservation and stewardship

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

● Previous coordination experience in the Gunnison Basin
● Familiarity with low-tech process-based restoration techniques
● Familiarity with the North Fork Valley
● Experience with ArcGIS or other mapping software

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

● Salary range: $57,000-61,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
● The Watershed Stewardship Coordinator works primarily in-person at our Paonia office
with the majority of hours completed during regular business hours. The role requires occasional local and regional travel for site visits, meetings, and community or partner
events. Some evening or weekend hours may be required. Limited remote work may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
● Benefits include a 35 hour work week, generous paid time off (PTO) plan and holidays, flexible schedule, and a matching retirement savings plan.
● Candidates should be based within easy commuting distance of Paonia, CO.
● A personal vehicle is required, with mileage reimbursed.
● Additional non-financial benefits include the opportunity to live and work in a spectacular rural mountain location that boasts a high quality of life and an active and engaged community.

We encourage candidates to apply even if they do not meet every listed qualification. We value diverse experiences and perspectives and believe that potential, passion, and a willingness to learn are just as important as formal requirements.