Western SD Riparian Range

The Riparian Range Specialist (RRS) will work closely with researchers, public and private land managers to implement, test and demonstrate the effectiveness of low-cost, low-tech riparian restoration practices in western SD; these practices include but are not limited to beaver dam analogs (BDAs) and zeedyk structures. The RRS will coordinate with partners and researchers to monitor these practices and build evidence regarding the costs and benefits that they provide.  The position will work to increase community awareness of the value of riparian systems and work with land managers on restoration and management options available.  The RRS will host a variety of field tours, workshops, trainings, and conduct landowner outreach across western SD. This educational outreach will focus on low-cost, low-tech riparian restoration practices, benefits derived, and overall best management practices that improve or sustain riparian health. The RRS will work with partners, ranchers and land managers to incorporate riparian health practices into ranch management plans and will coordinate with and help inform The Nature Conservancy’s North American Sustainable Grazing strategy. The RRS will coordinate collaborative watershed-scale efforts across multiple ownerships and will design, plan and implement multiple projects, set deadlines and manage completion.  This position requires a valid driver’s license, a good driving record and the ability to work some evenings and weekends. This is a full-time regular position with benefits including health and dental insurance, paid time off, flexible schedules and more.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE 

• Performs tasks with minimal supervision and makes independent decisions based on analysis, experience and context.
• Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Will need to gain cooperation from outside parties to accomplish program goals.
• Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, assisting with budget development.
• Coordinates multiple projects with several variables, setting realistic deadlines and managing timeframes.
• Interprets guidelines, evaluates information and modifies processes to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Compiles data, resolves disparities, and modifies processes to generate watershed and site-specific plans.
• Cultivates and develops creative ideas to improve conservation strategies.
• Applies diversified knowledge of scientific principles and practices to a variety of assignments.
• Identifies and disseminates lessons learned, best practices and methods, tools, consistencies and inconsistences across plans.
• Networks with diverse groups, including land owners, conservation partners, government officials, and the general public to recruit support for the Conservancy and riparian health efforts.
• Provide a variety of information to staff and others, contributing to conservation projects and assisting workflow throughout the organization.
• Work and communicate effectively with a diverse group of people including scientists, ranchers and land managers, staff and others – providing and obtaining needed information.