About the Position:
The Resource Specialist I position is an entry-level, non-exempt professional position responsible for performing a wide range of activities in support of the management, enhancement and protection of the District’s natural resources. General responsibilities of this position will be to conduct literature searches, field observations and studies to analyze and assess the status of natural and cultural resources; write detailed technical summaries and reports for District staff and the public; prepare grant applications; manage consultants and contractors; and assist in the development and implementation of resource management projects. Many projects assigned to this position require the ability to identify plant species in the field and implement vegetation monitoring studies. The Resource Specialist I will function within a team environment involving staff from the Operations, Planning and Real Property Departments.

Basic Requirements:
Qualifications
Knowledge of basic principles and practices of ecology, wildlife and vegetation management; knowledge of surveying and mapping techniques using GPS/GIS technology; understanding of California flora and fauna, geology, hydrology, and natural history; basic methods and techniques of resource protection and restoration; procedures used in conducting and documenting field observations; basic methods and techniques of research, analysis and report writing; and pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
Ability to assess status of natural resources through field observations; monitor trends of natural resources and threats in the field; identify and survey local common and rare plants and wildlife species of Central California Coast; organize information and data to address resource management issues; respond to requests and inquiries from the general public; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills are required, as well as a commitment to the principles of diversity and multiculturalism. Occasional evening and weekend work is required.
Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

Education and Experience
Equivalent to a Bachelor degree in ecology, biology, earth sciences or other related sciences; and one year of experience in evaluating, surveying or monitoring natural resource systems. One year of increasingly responsible experience in evaluating, surveying or monitoring of natural resource systems. An additional two years of progressively responsible, related work experience in addition to a relevant AA degree may be substituted for the bachelors degree requirement.

Working Conditions:
Work will occur in both a field and office environment including travel from site to site, and field data collection. Routinely sitting for prolonged periods of time; extensive use of computer; when conducting field assignments, may traverse rough, difficult terrain in inclement weather with exposure to poison oak. May require occasional weekend work.

The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation by contacting the Human Resources Department.