Restoration Field Operations Manager

Big Sur Land Trust; Salinas (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 92,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Retirement plan

HSA contributions

Job summary

Big Sur Land Trust in Salinas, California, seeks a Restoration Field Operations Manager to lead day-to-day stewardship of 67 acres of wetlands, grasslands, and upland habitats within Ensen Community Park. This hands-on role combines habitat restoration, field operations, and community engagement.

The ideal candidate will supervise crews, coordinate contractors and volunteers, and monitor restoration performance using GIS/GPS while prioritizing safety and long-term conservation success.

Qualifications

• Experience in habitat restoration or land management required.
• Knowledge of ecological restoration principles and vegetation management.
• Experience operating and maintaining irrigation systems.
• Ability to supervise crews and coordinate contractors.
• Spanish language skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead habitat restoration and vegetation management activities.
• Coordinate contractors, field crews, and volunteers.
• Manage and maintain a large-scale irrigation system.
• Monitor site conditions and restoration performance using GIS/GPS and field-based assessments.
• Identify and address invasive species.
• Support community stewardship and partnership efforts.
• Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with restoration goals.

Skills

Habitat restoration

Crew supervision

Irrigation systems

GIS/GPS tools

Field monitoring

Spanish language (plus)

Education

Bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field

Tools

GIS

GPS

Job description

Salary: $80,000 - $92,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

About the Role

Big Sur Land Trust is seeking a Restoration Field Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day stewardship of 67 acres of newly restored wetlands, grasslands, and upland habitats within Ensen Community Park in Salinas, California. This hands-on leadership role combines habitat restoration, field operations, contractor and volunteer coordination, ecological monitoring, and community engagement. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who enjoys working outdoors, solving practical challenges, and helping build long-term conservation success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead habitat restoration and vegetation management activities.
• Coordinate contractors, field crews, and volunteers.
• Manage and maintain a large-scale irrigation system.
• Monitor site conditions and restoration performance using GIS/GPS and field-based assessments.
• Identify and address invasive species.
• Support community stewardship and partnership efforts.
• Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with restoration goals.

Qualifications

• Experience in habitat restoration, land management, landscaping, natural resources, or a related field.
• Knowledge of ecological restoration principles and vegetation management.
• Experience operating and maintaining irrigation systems.
• Ability to supervise crews, coordinate contractors, and manage field operations.
• Experience using GIS/GPS tools and conducting field monitoring.
• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, natural resources, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Spanish language skills are a plus.

Benefits:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; 403(b) retirement contributions; HSA contributions; Employee Assistance Program; paid holidays; vacation; and sick leave.

Location: Monterey and Salinas, California

Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt

About Big Sur Land Trust

Big Sur Land Trust is dedicated to conserving Monterey County’s unique landscapes and expanding access to meaningful outdoor experiences for all. We’re building a future where communities are deeply connected to and caring for the land.