The mission of the California Tahoe Conservancy is to lead California’s efforts to restore and enhance the extraordinary natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin. At the Conservancy, we know the importance of building an organization that is as diverse as the communities we serve. We believe in maintaining a workplace where employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences can thrive. Working together, our team is positioned to improve the lives of all Californians.
General Statement
The Conservancy owns and manages nearly 4,700 parcels of land, totaling around 6,500 acres, for the purpose of protecting the natural environment and promoting public recreation and access to Lake Tahoe. The Conservancy has a proven track record of excellent land management for multiple benefits. Managing the Conservancy’s properties is a complex task. Most parcels are no larger than 1/3 of an acre and are scattered throughout developed areas. Under the supervision of the Land Management Program Supervisor, the Environmental Planner is expected to handle a full range of land management issues arising on Conservancy lands and lead activities to preserve, restore, and enhance the extraordinary natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The Essential and Marginal functions are performed pursuant to agency guidelines, applicable environmental and regulatory requirements, and Board direction.
Job Functions
[Essential (E) / Marginal (M) Functions]:35% Resource Evaluation and Project Planning (E)
- Lead the planning of urban lot restoration efforts including complex interdivisional projects involving encroachment resolution, structure demolition, water quality improvement, ecological restoration, and development right banking;
- Review parcel history, title reports, deeds, acquisition data, and historical and biological resources to identify project opportunities and constraints;
- Coordinate, facilitate, and provide technical assistance with agency partners on projects of mutual benefit;
- Identify and recommend land survey needs to resolve encroachment and other resource issues;
- Synthesize technical and scientific data to determine environmental impacts and recommend measures or alternatives as appropriate; and
- Prepare, review and process environmental documents mandated by Federal and State laws and regulations (including CEQA) and, assess consequences to the environment of restoration alternatives and formulate environmental mitigation measures for these alternatives.
30% Project Implementation, Project Management, and Reporting (E)
- Lead Environmental Improvement Program reporting and system improvements for the Land Management Program;
- Perform direct and indirect oversight of contract staff responsible for land management activities;
- Maintain project files and Tap Room (the agency’s online parcel data management system) records consistent with department reporting and audit requirements;
- Assist in past project monitoring and adaptive management;
- Administer contracts and agreements necessary to carryout land management activities;
- Assist with project and annual permit renewals;
- Assist with facilities management including inspections, maintenance, and contractor oversight;
- Use field observations, monitoring reports, and other information to determine if project objectives were met and what maintenance needs exist;
- Ensure project compliance with local regulations and environmental laws (including CEQA);
- Lead the procurement of project materials and equipment, approve invoices, and manage related budget items; and
- Assist with land transfers by performing inspections, resolving issues, and assisting with public outreach efforts.
30% Program Administration (E)
- Represent Conservancy interests, programs, priorities, and polices in a professional manner consistent with agency direction;
- Respond to inquiries from the public regarding policies for protecting and enhancing Conservancy resources;
- Assist with the development and field oversight of license agreements or special use permits authorizing use of Conservancy lands;
- Assist with program budget development and expenditure tracking;
- Assist in the development of policy recommendations and implement program and agency wide management policies and strategic plans;
- Participate in project tours, workshops, public, and interagency meetings regarding Conservancy interests;
- Develop and refine scopes of work, and manage contracts directly or through Department of General Services;
- Prepare staff recommendations and reports, consistent with guidelines, program objectives, and prior board actions as necessary;
- Assist in the development of land management strategies; and
- Perform public outreach efforts, such as speaking to community and school groups about Conservancy programs and projects.
5% Other (M)
- Provide executive support, including development of presentations, maps, and public outreach programs intended to convey specific messages to various parties of interest;
- Provide content for the Conservancy’s progress reports, website, newsletter, and other social media platforms as needed;
- Assist with office administration and support activities, and coordination with Conservancy staff, consultants, contractors, and seasonal contract staff; and
- Other duties as assigned