Natural Areas Manager

(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

 Compensation: $68,000-$72,000

Job:  Natural Areas Manager
Department: Natural Areas
Job Type: Full-Time; Year-Round; 40 hours per week; 5 days per week; Regular weekends in-season; Exempt  
Salary Range: $68,000-$72,000
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package 60 days following date of hire (health insurance, paid time off, etc.)
Work Location: Randall’s Island Park, NY, NY 10035 

The Natural Areas Manager will oversee the adaptive management, monitoring, and programming of 20+ acres of restored natural areas and 4.5 miles of coastline at Randall’s Island Park. The Manager is responsible for planning and reporting on restoration and engagement efforts while managing a team to build community partnerships with schools, environmental organizations, and researchers to enhance relationships, restoration efforts, and programs. The Manager reports to the Director of Environmental Programs and will work to develop and implement community and educational programs. The Manager collaborates closely with all departments to achieve programmatic outcomes and to further RIPA’s overall mission.

Responsibilities/Duties

            Natural Areas Management

  • With oversight from the Director of Environmental Programs and broad latitude for independent initiative and judgment, work to develop, implement, and manage all facets of adaptive management, ecological research, volunteer engagement, and environmental education programs for park visitors of all ages, including volunteers, students, families, and adults.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of the Park-As-Lab community research program.
  • Apply strong knowledge and best practices for managing plants, wildlife, and ecosystems toward restoration, resiliency, and engagement.
  • Plan and schedule assignments in all aspects of natural resource management and environmental programming.
  • Lead staff in performing all tasks necessary to maintain excellent health and overall appearance of the natural areas, forest resources, pathways, and shorelines.
  • Oversee day-to-day tasks and report back progress to the Director of Environmental Programs.

    Staff Management 
  • Supervise Restoration Coordinator, seasonal staff members, and interns to obtain quality performance, efficiency, morale, and teamwork toward managing the natural areas and programs.
  • Provide leadership through effective communication, coaching, training, and professional development.
  • Ensure that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed; bring problems to the attention of the Director of Environmental Programs/HR.
  • Collaborate with departments to maximize equipment and material usage and cross-train staff members.
  • Collaborate with other department managers on projects that would benefit from teamwork.
  • Serve as a positive influence and point of support for staff members across the organization.

    Programming 
  • Collaborate with the Director of Environmental Programs, Public Programs Manager, and Urban Farm Manager to plan for environmental-based programs/large-scale events such as volunteer groups, festivals, etc.
  • Conduct outreach and promote community events and volunteer opportunities by attending community events and meetings and interacting with the public.
  • Act as a RIPA ambassador, answering questions, leading volunteer events, and facilitating tours.
  • Collaborate on implementing outreach strategies to schools, community organizations, and individuals to encourage and maximize the use of facilities and programs on Randall's Island.
  • Work with the Communications Manager to develop and plan for the distribution of materials to promote environmental awareness and engagement, including creating and editing text for brochures, signage, and promotional materials.
  • Support park-wide initiatives, programs, and events.
  • Perform all other general tasks as assigned by RIPA's senior leadership.

    Administrative Responsibilities 
  • Assist with timekeeping by verifying and approving payroll for the Natural Areas department.
  • Review and approve invoices and submit them to the Chief Financial Officer, Controller, and Finance Associate.
  • Work with the Director of Environmental programs to prepare and manage budgets and track spending.
  • Maintain detailed records to track and present data regularly for grant and fundraising efforts, reports for the Board of Trustees and the Annual Programming Report.
  • Perform general administrative duties, as needed.
  • Perform all other general tasks as assigned by RIPA’s senior leadership.

    This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an employee in this position may be asked to perform from time to time.

Qualifications/Requirements

  • Master's degree in biology, natural sciences, or related field and two years of experience in education, natural resources management, horticulture, or related field OR a Bachelor's degree and five years of related experience
  • Minimum of two years of experience leading staff and/or interns.
  • Knowledge of wetlands restoration projects and general wetlands ecology.
  • Experience in identifying common native and invasive wetland plants and animals.
  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
  • Must be able to work outdoors and coordinate and facilitate school, community, and volunteer events at the park.
  • Strong verbal communication and writing skills; ability to articulate and advocate RIPA's mission.
  • Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills and strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to create and maintain positive working relationships, cross-organizationally.
  • Proven ability to make sound judgments and effectively solve problems.
  • Motivated and punctual, able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Valid NYS Driver License.
  • COVID-19 Vaccination.

    PREFERRED SKILLS / QUALIFICATIONS
  • Two to four years in program management or a similar role.
  • Experience working in a non-profit organization.
  • Knowledge and interest in nature-based public programs.
  • Demonstrated track record of successful program implementation, volunteer management, and project planning.
  • Fluent in Spanish.
     

Additional Information

The Randall’s Island Park Alliance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and believes in a diverse and an inclusive workplace.

Contact Information

Randall's Island Park Alliance
Website: Apply Online