Job Overview

We are hiring two entry-level, part-time Stewardship Field Technician to help implement our sustainable agriculture programs. The work is primarily field-based and requires traveling to farms throughout Northern California, but mostly within Sonoma, Mendocino, and Napa counties. Some time will need to be spent in the office for initial trainings, and pre/post field computer work. Through this position, you will meet with hundreds of farmers, working directly with government agencies, landowners, and conservation organizations to certify agricultural operations under our Fish Friendly Farming certification.

This role requires a foundational understanding of natural processes related to soil health, hydrology, and sustainable agriculture.

Organization

The California Land Stewardship Institute (CLSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to planning and implementing environmental stewardship, restoration, and enhancement programs and projects including educational activities, scientific studies, promotion of beneficial stewardship practices, and resource conservation activities on private lands and waterways.

CLSI operates the award-winning Fish Friendly Farming (FFF) Certification Program. The FFF program is a robust agricultural sustainability certification program that assesses the natural resources of individual farms. We create detailed maps and farm plans specifying best management practices (BMPs) to improve water quality, reduce chemical use, conserve water, revegetate, and restore habitats. FFF certifies vineyards, orchards, and a variety of row crops.

Responsibilities

· Recertify existing sites, taking detailed notes on any changes to the agricultural or natural areas. Confirm progress on required action items and assign new action items at the request of our third party certifier. (50%)

· Enter data, use GIS software to generate maps, process certification paperwork, and coordinate with growers over email and phone. (25%)

· Certify new sites where you will present growers with their farm plan and answering any questions they might have. (15%)

· Assist with initial site visits, where you will help conduct vegetation surveys and hydrological assessments of the agricultural and natural areas. (10%)

This position reports to the FFF Program Manager.

Qualifications

· Course work or prior experience with topics of environmental sciences (e.g. soil science, hydrology, geomorphology, aquatic or riparian ecology, forest ecology, climate change), GIS, agriculture, or environmental policy.

· Demonstrated passion for environmental stewardship and an eagerness to learn more from experienced scientists.

· Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

· Maturity, integrity, and experience to gain the trust and confidence of private landowners, farmers, colleagues, and partners.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Commitment to working in a mission-driven, fast-paced environment.

· Own a car with valid driver’s license and insurance with ability to travel when necessary: driving is required, but carpooling is common and encouraged.

· Able to work long hours in adverse conditions (heat, rain, cold).

· Able to hike long distances in uneven terrain.

· Able to lift 40 lbs.

· Familiarity with North Bay natural systems a plus.

· Familiarity with North Bay agriculture a plus.

· Ability to work effectively and respectfully with a variety of constituencies, including private landowners, farmers, and government employees.

· Familiarity with Adobe Photoshop a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

This is a part-time position. Expectations are to work at most 30 hours a week with a flexible schedule. Position is in person and will be split roughly between 90% in the field and 10% in the office. Travel costs outside of normal commute for fieldwork are reimbursable. Pay is between 22-27/hr depending on experience.

The California Land Stewardship Institute is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. We are committed to diversity and consider all applicants for all positions without regard to color, ethnic background, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, and disability status