VCRCD is seeking a versatile and mission-driven conservation professional to fill the position of Fire Preparedness Coordinator. The ideal candidate will have experience with community wildfire and resource planning and a demonstrated understanding of fire ecology, wildfire behavior, and fuels management.
ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND
The Ventura County Resource Conservation District (VCRCD)’s mission is to collaborate with landowners, government agencies, and other willing partners to facilitate the conservation and restoration of Ventura County's natural resources. VCRCD is a special district of the State of California and is primarily funded by grants. VCRCD is one of 100+ RCDs in California and belongs to the California Association of RCDs (CARCD). VCRCD is governed by a board of seven Directors appointed for four-year terms. Please visit our website at vcrcd.org for more information about the VCRCD.
GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION
VCRCD is seeking a versatile and mission-driven conservation professional to fill the position of Fire Preparedness Coordinator. The ideal candidate will have experience with community wildfire and resource planning and a demonstrated understanding of fire ecology, wildfire behavior, and fuels management. Candidates must be willing to work across VCRCD programs, such as agriculture, climate resilience, and wildlife habitat, take on new challenges, and possess the communication skills needed for a public presence. The Fire Preparedness Coordinator will be responsible for helping VCRCD meet current grant requirements and assisting in the pursuit of new grant opportunities. The Fire Preparedness Coordinator is expected to pursue VCRCD’s strategic priorities in a manner that reflects the culture and values of the organization.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
● Bachelor’s degree in Fire Ecology, Wildfire Science, Wildland Fire, Forestry, or related field
● Proven ability to conduct assessments, develop wildfire plans, and manage wildfire projects
● Demonstrated understanding of wildfire mitigation practices and fire-related policy
● Experience with the terminology, practices, and command structure of fire practitioners
● Exceptional communication skills and experience with community engagement and education
● Experience with project development, grant writing, and grant management
● Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, etc.) and use of spatial imagery
● Experience in environmental research, project design, and data assessment
● Ability to work effectively in a team environment and under challenging conditions
● Desire to partner with state, federal, tribal, NGO, and community organizations
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
● Manage and coordinate tasks, staff, and reporting activities to achieve grant deliverables
● Serve as lead in implementing and managing VCRCD’s wildfire-related projects
● Facilitate the growth and coordination of the Ventura County Prescribed Burn Association
● Engage with VCRCD’s fire-preparedness partners on planning and mitigation efforts
● Provide as-needed assistance on projects in support of VCRCD’s strategic priorities
● Assist with writing grant proposals for District programs and projects
● Conduct site visits and collect field data on a variety of terrain and land-use types
● Attend meetings on matters related to District programs and/or operations when needed
● Promote VCRCD’s mission, projects, and services within the community
● Contribute to VCRCD’s short- and long-term organizational planning efforts
● Any additional duties deemed essential to the function of VCRCD
LOCATION
The VCRCD office is located at 3380 Somis Road, Somis, CA 93066. Services are provided throughout Ventura County and to surrounding counties so travel may be required
COMPENSATION
Employment type: Permanent, Hourly, Full Time (40 hours/week)
Salary range: $32.52-$36.34 to start, depending on experience
BENEFITS
Health, dental, vision, and up to 3% IRA matching contributions. VCRCD provides unemployment, workers’ compensation, Social Security, Medicare at the going rate. State Disability (SDI) is paid by the employee. VCRCD offers paid leave time and eleven paid holidays.
OTHER
Mileage: If VCRCD vehicle is not available, mileage will be paid for personal vehicle usage at the current Federal rate. Must have a clear DMV record and maintain vehicle insurance.
Candidates must be capable of a full range of motion, ability to lift at least 30 pounds without restriction, and hike in occasional adverse weather and terrain as needed.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
August 16, 2024
HOW TO APPLY
Email a resume, cover letter, and work sample to [email protected] and [email protected]. State the title of the position description you are applying to in the subject line.
In the cover letter, answer the supplementary questions below.
1) Identify Ventura County wildfire mitigation opportunities you’d like to pursue and explain why.
2) Explain how your wildfire-related experience will help you excel in this position.
3) Describe your experience conducting community and tribal engagement.
You must submit answers to these questions to be considered for this position. Limit your response to a total of 5,000 characters, including spaces.
$32.52 - $36.34 per hour