Restoration Field Operations Manager

Big Sur Land Trust
Salinas & Monterey, CA
Full-Time | Exempt
$80,000 - $92,000 per year

About Us

Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT) conserves Monterey County's unique landscapes, inspires love of land across generations, and promotes access to outdoor experiences for all. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Restoration Field Operations Manager to help steward 67 acres of newly restored habitat within the 73-acre Ensen Community Park in Salinas.

This is a unique opportunity to lead field operations at one of the region's most visible habitat restoration projects, supporting wetlands, grasslands, upland habitats, public access, and community stewardship.

Position Summary

The Restoration Field Operations Manager leads day-to-day field operations for a large-scale restoration site. This hands-on leadership role includes habitat management, irrigation operations, ecological monitoring, invasive species control, contractor coordination, volunteer engagement, and field-based problem solving.

The ideal candidate is a self-motivated restoration professional who enjoys working outdoors, managing projects, collaborating with diverse partners, and contributing to long-term conservation success.

Key Responsibilities

Vegetation Management

• Lead and coordinate contractors and volunteer crews conducting invasive weed management.
• Monitor vegetation health and restoration progress using GIS/GPS, photo monitoring, plots, and transects.
• Identify and respond to invasive species using Early Detection and Rapid Response practices.

Irrigation Management

• Operate and oversee a large-scale irrigation system covering approximately 30 acres.
• Adjust irrigation schedules based on seasonal and site conditions.
• Inspect, troubleshoot, and coordinate repairs of irrigation infrastructure.

Field Operations & Site Stewardship

• Maintain a regular on-site presence and assess restoration site conditions.
• Coordinate field work with contractors and partners.
• Support community groups, volunteers, City staff, and Friends of Ensen Community Park.
• Purchase and manage tools, equipment, and field supplies.
• Serve as a positive and professional representative of Big Sur Land Trust.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Biology, Botany, Resource Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with habitat restoration, land management, landscaping, or natural resource projects.
• Knowledge of ecological restoration principles and California native and non-native plants.
• Experience with GIS/GPS data collection and biological monitoring.
• Experience operating and maintaining irrigation systems.
• Ability to supervise crews, contractors, and volunteers.
• Strong project management, organization, and communication skills.
• Working knowledge of Spanish is preferred.
• Experience operating field equipment or machinery is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform outdoor field work year-round.
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain and work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to bend, squat, lift, and perform manual labor for extended periods.
• Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary of $80,000 - $92,000 annually, depending on experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• 403(b) retirement plan contributions.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Big Sur Land Trust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status.

How to Apply

Submit:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest outlining your qualifications and availability

Email: employment@bigsurlandtrust.org

The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. We are targeting a start date in late August or early September.

Learn more about Big Sur Land Trust at: www.bigsurlandtrust.org.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $92,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Application Question(s):

• How many years of experience do you have managing habitat restoration, land management, landscaping, or natural resource projects?
• Do you have experience operating and maintaining irrigation systems?
• Please describe your experience managing irrigation systems, including the size and complexity of the systems you have worked with.
• How would you rate your ability to identify California native and non-native plant species across different life stages (seedling, juvenile, and mature)?
• Do you have experience using GIS and/or GPS tools for field monitoring, mapping, or vegetation surveys?

Work Location: In person