Restoration Technician

Redwood Coast Land Conservancy

Redwood Coast Land Conservancy (RCLC) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve the natural landscapes and native habitats of southern Mendocino and northern Sonoma Counties. RCLC properties provide coastal access and include a segment of the California Coastal Trail. In 2021, RCLC purchased Mill Bend Preserve, a large property at the mouth of the Gualala River, where native habitat restoration and public access improvements are currently underway.

Position Summary

The Restoration Technician’s top priority is to implement restoration strategies and assist with maintenance tasks on RCLC properties. This includes removing invasive plants, assisting in restoring native habitat, and ensuring safe and enjoyable visitor experiences. It also includes helping to maintain property functions, including minor facilities repair and appearance upkeep. Mill Bend Preserve (MBP) will be the primary property responsibility, but tasks may also include Gualala Bluff Trail, Cooks Beach, Hearn Gulch, and the Gualala Cemetery.

The hire of a Restoration Technician comes at a time of growth for RCLC. Since acquiring Mill Bend Preserve, RCLC has acquired three grants and is beginning the process of restoration access improvement to MBP. The Restoration Technician will be asked to help the RCLC improve habitat for native plants and animals, and in offering a visitor opportunities for recreation, education and enjoyment.

The Restoration Technician will work closely with and report to the Restoration Ecologist. The position will require balancing the need to take general direction and acting with independence, initiative, and good judgment.

Responsibilities:

• Safely use RCLC’s vegetation management equipment, including the weed whip, wood chipper, trailer, water trailer, chainsaws, brush cutter, lawn mower and hand tools.
• Maintain, or help maintain, RCLC’s vegetation management equipment.
• Utilize proper personal protective equipment (face shield, eye protection, ear muffs) when working with power tools.
• Maintain the safe and welcoming condition of MBP trails, including picking up trash, installing signs, improving trails, etc.
• Maintain an orderly equipment shed, including safe and efficient placement of tools and equipment.
• Safely manage biochar kiln burns.
• Periodically assist in the maintenance and improvement of House 1, as necessary.
• Make occasional off-site trips to pick up supplies, pick up and deliver trash to Sonoma County Regional Parks dumpsters, etc.
• Work collaboratively with volunteers and contractors.
• Assist in day-to-day security and upkeep of MBP.
• Occasionally work at the Gualala Bluff Trail, Cooks Beach, and Hearn Gulch efforts, as needed.
• Perform many miscellaneous other duties, as assigned, to support RCLC operations.

Desired Skills & Abilities

• Strong work ethic, including ability to perform demanding physical labor
• Ability to work on uneven and steep terrain
• Ability to work outdoors in rainy, cold, or hot weather
• Ability to recognize and avoid poison oak
• Basic understanding of mechanical tools
• Ability to learn and recognize common native and invasive plants
• Ability to understand verbal and written instructions in English
• The ability to safely lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50lbs
• A valid CA driver’s license
• Occasional weekends and evenings availability
• Ability to interact with visitors in a polite and friendly manner
• The Restoration Technician will be located in or near Gualala

Terms & Compensation

Compensation for the Restoration Technician position ranges from $28.00 – $30.00 per hour to start, depending on experience. The position is part-time, with hours and days to be determined based on employee and employer’s needs.

How to Apply

Please submit an email of interest to sophia@rclc.org with “Restoration Technician” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

RCLC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive, values-driven work environment where all employees can thrive.