Stewardship Field Technician

Job Overview

We are hiring an early career, full or part time Stewardship Field Technician to help implement our sustainable agriculture programs. The work is primarily field-based and requires traveling to farms throughout Northern California, but mostly within Sonoma, Mendocino, and Napa counties. 20-60% of your time will need to be spent in the office for trainings and pre/post field computer work. Through this position, you will meet with thousands of farmers and work directly with government agencies, experienced scientist, landowners, and conservation organizations to certify agricultural operations under our Fish Friendly Farming certification.

This role is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in environmental science and policy, viticulture, soil science, and hydrology. It requires a foundational understanding of natural processes and an interest and respect for agriculture.

Organization

The California Land Stewardship Institute (CLSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to planning and implementing environmental stewardship, restoration, and enhancement programs and projects including educational activities, scientific studies, promotion of beneficial stewardship practices, and resource conservation activities on private lands and waterways. 

CLSI operates the award-winning Fish Friendly Farming (FFF) Certification Program. The FFF program is a robust agricultural sustainability certification program that assesses the natural resources of individual farms. We create detailed maps and farm plans specifying best management practices (BMPs) to improve water quality, reduce chemical use, conserve water, revegetate, and restore habitats. FFF is primarily a vineyard program, but also certifies orchards and a variety of row crops. 95% of the vineyards in Napa are FFF certified, as well as the majority of vineyards in Sonoma and Mendocino Counties.

Responsibilities

• Visit existing FFF certified farms, taking detailed notes on any changes to the farm since the last visit. Confirm progress on required action items and assign new action items at the request of our third party certifier. (~60%)
• Enter data, use GIS software to generate maps, process certification paperwork, and coordinate with growers over email and phone. (~30%)
• Certify new sites where you will present growers with their farm plan and discuss the environmental and regulatory benefits of their certification (~5%)
• Stay up to date on relevant environmental studies and policy changes from state and federal agencies (CA Water Board, SGMA, EPA, CDFW). (~5%)

This position reports to the FFF Program Manager.  

Qualifications

• Course work or prior experience with environmental sciences, agriculture, GIS, and/or environmental policy.
• Demonstrated passion for environmental stewardship and an eagerness to learn more from experienced scientists.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Maturity, integrity, and experience to gain the trust and confidence of private landowners, farmers, colleagues, and partners.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to working in a mission-driven, fast-paced environment.
• Own a car with valid driver’s license and insurance with ability to travel when necessary: driving is required, but carpooling is common and encouraged. Travel with your vehicle is reimbursed.
• Able to work long hours in adverse conditions (heat, rain, cold).
• Able to hike long distances in uneven terrain.
• Able to lift 40 lbs.
• Familiarity with North Bay natural systems a plus.
• Familiarity with North Bay agriculture a plus.
• Ability to work effectively and respectfully with a variety of constituencies, including private landowners, farmers, and government employees.

Job Details

This position is part or full time depending on experience and anticipated availability during the field season. Expectations are to work at least 40 hours a week for full time, and 29 hours at most for part time. Some office work can be done remotely after training is completed, but you should anticipate at least one office day per week.