Job Details

Position Overview

We are seeking a Project Director with experience in California water and/or agriculture to ensure that our Water for the Future Program strategies are compatible with real-world management decisions. The ideal candidate will understand water management at an irrigation district, water agency, flood control, and/or Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) scale. Experience working with agricultural producers is also preferred.

Responsibilities

1. Subject Matter Expertise
   • Contribute to strategic planning, especially to pilot, develop, and scale multi-benefit water management projects and programs.
   • Develop technical guidance and materials supporting these programs.
   • Identify water management challenges and opportunities impacting program strategies.
2. Project Management & Teamwork
   • Scope, direct, and manage projects through collaboration with team members.
   • Prepare progress and final reports, recommendations, and other deliverables.
   • Support colleagues and partner with external entities for workshops, outreach, and events.
3. Communication & Partnership-Building
   • Build and maintain relationships with GSAs, water districts, industry associations, NGOs, government agencies, and consultants.
   • Represent the program externally and communicate lessons learned.

Qualifications

1. Experience and Skills
   • BA/BS in relevant fields with at least 8 years of experience or equivalent.
   • Expertise in California water management, especially related to irrigated agriculture and SGMA.
   • Ability to interpret complex scientific research.
   • Proven partnership-building skills.
   • Project management experience, including contract negotiation.
   • Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with SharePoint/Office365 is a plus.
   • Excellent communication skills.
   • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and organizational values.
   • Valid driver's license and willingness to travel.
2. Desirable Skills
   • Knowledge of innovative water conservation or recharge practices.
   • Multilingual/multicultural skills.
   • Proficiency in ArcGIS or QGIS.

Preferred Education Level

BA Degree

Benefits

Competitive salary, fully paid health insurance, 401(k) match, FSA, EAP, generous leave, and a culture emphasizing collaboration, respect, and diversity. Professional development is supported.

Salary Range

$108,230 - $119,230

Application Process

Send your cover letter and resume to ...@suscon.org with “Project Director (Water Resources)” in the subject line.

About Sustainable Conservation

Sustainable Conservation unites people to solve California's land, air, and water challenges through collaborative, equitable, and practical solutions, focusing on sustainable groundwater management, ecosystem stewardship, and water conservation.

Equal Opportunity

We value diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. Candidates are not expected to meet every qualification listed.