Watershed Resources Manager

~ Founded in 1986, RiverLink is a nonprofit organization promoting the economic and environmental vitality of the French Broad River and its watershed as a place to live, learn, work and play. ~

Position Overview

The watershed resources manager directs RiverLink’s watershed improvement projects that improve water quality throughout the French Broad River watershed.

These projects are developed in concert with private landowners, communities and municipalities to restore degraded streams, install stormwater control measures, conserve riparian land and steep slopes, improve river access and engage the greater community in watershed stewardship.

This is a high impact opportunity to be part of an organization that is regionally and nationally recognized among environmental, sustainable development groups, government agencies and foundations. The work environment is challenging and rewarding as we seek to replicate our Asheville-based success in the greater watershed.

Responsibilities

Reporting directly to the executive director, the water resources manager will be a key member of a small staff with a primary responsibility to assist RiverLink’s water quality implementation program. Primary duties include:

• Grant writing and management;
• Project management of current initiatives in stormwater control measures (BMP’s), stream restoration, watershed management plans, greenway development and French Broad River Paddle Trail river access portage and campsites;
• Land conservation management to work with landowners and community to acquire land and conservation easements and to steward existing properties;
• Assist citizens with questions and concerns regarding water pollution, stormwater control measures, sedimentation and erosion, stream health and the French Broad River Paddle Trail;
• Management of watershed resources coordinator (Americorps project conserve member);
• Public speaking and adult education; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• The successful candidate will be a self-starter and adaptive with the ability to think strategically to prioritize competing demands and possess a proven record and understanding of community-centered watershed health improvement strategies and nonpoint source pollution control initiatives.
• Excellent communication skills — written and oral — are required as are superb people skills.
• A four-year college degree is required; a degree in landscape architecture, science or engineering is preferred.

Note: Applications will be received until position is filled. (posted 2/10)