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About the Position: The Planning Department is seeking two interns who are interested in learning about open space conservation and planning for ecologically sensitive recreation. Their responsibilities may include researching and compiling project information, supporting with community and stakeholder engagement, assisting with environmental review and documentation, researching new programs and initiatives, conducting field surveys and data collection, and using computer-based systems such as GIS, Microsoft Excel and Adobe Illustrator for analysis of data and preparation of documents regarding Midpen lands and facilities. The interns will work as a team and individually on assignments, including opportunities for field work to gain experience in data collection techniques and tools and on-the-job training in planning research, analysis, and written communication.  The expected start date for the interns is on or after July 8, 2024. We have limited flexibility to change the start date.

About Midpen: Midpen helps plants, animals and people thrive throughout the greater Santa Cruz Mountains region by preserving a greenbelt of more than 70,000 acres of public open space with 250 miles of trails in 27 extraordinary preserves, permanently protected for natural resource conservation and ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. Midpen is a public agency with a focused mission that guides our work, and where every employee makes an impact. If you are looking for an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the legacy of open space protection, natural resource restoration, outdoor recreation and environmental education, working with an incredible team of like-minded colleagues, we invite you to apply for this position! For more information please visit our Intern Program Brochure and check out the Working for Midpen video on our Employment Opportunities page.

Basic Requirements: Internships are open to applications from current students or recent graduates (within the last 12 months). Successful candidates will have a background in the natural sciences, park/open space management, land use/environmental planning, GIS/geography, biology, ecology, or another related field; and experience with field data collection techniques. This internship requires strong organizational and analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and with a team. Experience with MS Outlook, MS Word and Excel, ArcGIS software, GPS equipment, Microsoft Excel, and Apple iPads is desired, and familiarity with Midpen preserves/trails as well as local flora, fauna, and natural history are a plus.   Possession of or ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license is required. Must possess the ability to lift, carry, push and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

Working Conditions: This position will report to the Planning Department at the Administrative Office in Los Altos, California.  Midpen offers a hybrid office/telecommute work environment for this position, which will be divided between onsite work, field visits, and limited home office work.  Fieldwork is conducted in rural or mountainous Midpen open space areas, which may involve working alone or with another intern in wildland areas, traversing rough difficult terrain sometimes with poison oak and dense vegetation, and carrying equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. This is a temporary position working 20 – 40 hours per week, which will extend up to a total of 950 hours over a 6-9 month period. This is a non-benefited position.

Ready to apply?  Great!  We welcome your application online at CalOpps.org. 

Application deadline is Monday, April 29, 2024. Applicants with the most relevant experience and qualifications suitable for the position will be contacted for an interview.

The following application items are required to be considered*:

1. Fully completed CalOpps employment application 

2. Cover letter 

3. Resume 

4. Supplemental question responses

*Incomplete CalOpps employment applications, or applications without the required application items listed here, will not be considered for the position.

Virtual Interviews are planned for Tuesday, May 14, 2024.  Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate individual schedules.

At Midpen, we believe open space is for all. Our public lands are shared spaces provided for the community by the community. All people, regardless of background, deserve respect, dignity, safety, and a sense of belonging. Midpen welcomes all people to enjoy the public open space preserves we hold in trust, supporting the mental, physical, and social well-being of our region.

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation

by contacting the Human Resources department at

(650) 691-1200 or via email at hr@openspace.org.

 Put your passion for Open Space to work!

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUCEMENT URL BELOW.

Do you have a passion for outdoor recreation and open space? Do you seek an opportunity to work on planning projects that focus on land use, public access improvements and staff facilities?  Midpen has an excellent opportunity for a skilled Planner III who will manage complex planning projects supporting public access and outdoor recreation in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.  The ideal candidate will be an organized, creative, and energetic self-starter with excellent communication and project management skills, who enjoys working within a collaborative team dynamic. Top-level candidates are familiar with feasibility studies, public outreach and engagement, design project management, environmental review processes, and local, state, and federal land use laws and permitting processes, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHP), etc.

About Midpen: Midpen helps plants, animals and people thrive throughout the greater Santa Cruz Mountains region by preserving a greenbelt of more than 70,000 acres of public open space with over 250 miles of trails in 27 extraordinary preserves, permanently protected for natural resource conservation and ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. Midpen is a public agency with a focused mission that guides our work, and where every employee makes an impact.  If you are looking for an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the legacy of open space protection, natural resource restoration and outdoor recreation, working with an incredible team of like-minded colleagues, we invite you to apply for this position!  Check out the Working for Midpen video on our Employment Opportunities page.

About the Position:  Midpen's Board approved the addition of two new Planner III positions to the Planning Department. The Planner III focuses on a wide variety of planning and capital improvement projects that include long-range planning; land use planning; and conceptual site design to increase public access, outdoor recreation, and enjoyment of Midpen’s lands. The Planner III is tasked with performing complex professional level planning, analysis, and design; developing and administering project scopes, schedules and budgets; directing the feasibility and conceptual design phase of capital improvement projects such as trails, staging areas and staff facilities; developing recommendations for land use policies; preparing long-range master plans to guide the use and management of Midpen lands; conducting or overseeing studies to identify and evaluate environmental issues related to public access and natural and cultural resources; conducting public outreach and engagement; preparing requests for proposals; assisting in development of grant applications; preparing and/or assisting in the preparation of environmental review documents; and obtaining planning permits and initial approvals for projects. The Planner III also provides project presentations to senior management, the Board of Directors, and Committees, and at public meetings, that may be held in the evenings and weekends.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter who works independently with some supervision; communicates well and collaborates closely with internal team members from other departments to complete project requirements; works with local jurisdictional agencies to coordinate planning and permitting efforts; directs multidisciplinary teams of consultants; prepares and presents clear and concise oral and written communications to senior staff and management, the Board of Directors and public; keeps projects on schedule and on budget while remaining flexible to adjust priorities as needed; maintains well-organized and complete project documentation; and builds trust with peers, community members, stakeholders, and Midpen leadership. Beneficial skills for this position would include experience using computer-based and/or other systems such as GIS for management and analysis of data regarding Midpen lands, facilities, natural and cultural resources, as well as experience in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and tribal relations.

For additional information about the position, see the Job Description page on Midpen’s website. The position receives direct supervision from a Senior Planner.

A Few Reasons Why You May Love This Job

• Collaborative work that directly supports Midpen’s mission to protect and restore the natural environment and contributes to providing nature’s benefits to everyone
• You’ll be part of a talented and dynamic team of bright, energetic, and motivated professionals with a passion for the outdoors, trails, and preserving open space
• Excellent employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement pension through California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)

Work Environment:  This position is part of the Planning Department at the District’s offices in Los Altos, California.  Planner III project presentations may be held in the evenings and weekends. In addition to working in the office, the Planner III will sometimes work in the field and hike through steep terrain and wildland areas.  Field work will require driving in remote areas on dirt roads, working in temperatures ranging from cold and blustery to hot and dry. Ideal candidates will be comfortable working in these types of field conditions, as well as in an office environment. Midpen offers a hybrid office/telecommute work schedule for this position, which includes a 9/80 schedule.

Education and Experience:  Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:  Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in urban or regional planning, environmental planning or design, environmental sciences, landscape architecture or a related field, and at least three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience with five (5) years desired in project management (design, planning or environmental review projects), preferably in parks, open space or related field, including at least one (1) year of direct supervisory and administrative responsibility (which can include management of consultant team). 

Licenses & Certifications Required:   Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.

Benefits:   Midpen provides an excellent benefits package including health, life & disability insurance as well as CalPERS pension. Please see the Benefits page on Midpen’s website for details.

How to Apply: apply online at CalOpps.org.

(To avoid missing email communication regarding your status in this recruitment, please add mpropenspace@calopps.org to your contacts or list of safe senders)

This recruitment is open until filled. The first review of applications is March 25, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.  Applicants with the most relevant experience and qualifications suitable for the position will be contacted for an interview.

The following application items are required to be considered*:

1. Fully completed CalOpps employment application 

2. Cover letter 

3. Resume 

4. Supplemental question responses

*Incomplete CalOpps employment applications, or applications without the required application items listed here, will not be considered for the position.

Interview Schedule:  (dates are subject to change)

First Interview (virtual): April 11, 2024

Written Exercise (virtual): April 22, 2024

Second Interview (in person): April 23, 2024

A note to applicants who currently live outside of the San Francisco Bay Area: A note to applicants who currently live outside of the San Francisco Bay Area: before committing to the application process, and if you haven’t done so already, we suggest evaluating the feasibility of relocation. We recommend researching the cost of living in the San Francisco Bay Area, the cost to relocate, and typical commute times to Los Altos from outlying areas.

Midpen reserves the right to limit or deny off-duty employment or business ownership which creates a conflict of interest or an incompatibility with District employment. Information can be found in the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual Section 4.13 Off-Duty Employment and Business Ownership.

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation

by contacting the Human Resources department at 650-691-1200.   

Put your passion for Open Space to work!

The Watershed Planning Project Manager (Class: Project Analyst II or Project Analyst III) will manage projects related to urban river restoration, public access, and open space conservation, master planning, and park development, including design and construction of new park amenities, creation of parkland in urban neighborhoods, renovation of infrastructure and buildings, acquisition of land, and planning in a watershed context. Capital projects include renovation of existing facilities, new construction by contractors and force account, and fee acquisition of land interests.

This is professional and technical work pursuant to the terms of grants, contracts, and applicable regulations, involving frequent communication with others, for a flexible person at an intermediate level. Project managers must also build community and political support, seek funding opportunities, actively cooperate with other government agencies and non-profit organizations, and keep abreast of related planning processes. The work performed will support MRCA’s capital Workprogram for improvements, land acquisition, and major maintenance projects in nature parks within greater Los Angeles, and other MRCA efforts related to public access, open space conservation, habitat restoration, and urban park development. 

Ability to speak Spanish is required.

Para ver la versión de PDF en español, por favor desplácese hacia abajo.

Type

This is a full-time, non-exempt, at-will position.

Supervision

This position may report to the Chief of Watershed Planning, Chief of Park Development, or other Executive-level staff depending on MRCA's needs. Assorted tasks may be supervised by Executive Staff and may include participation in multi-division teams. The position supervises no other staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Implement multiple projects simultaneously: The project manager is the central point of contact on all issues concerning assigned projects and will be responsible for project quality. Perform project tracking, scheduling, and budget management.
• Analyze various planning documents and processes for consistency and impacts on MRCA's watershed planning priorities. Write formal comment letters and informal memoranda.
• Participate in planning processes related to the Los Angeles River and other local watersheds, at both regional and individual project scales.
• Identify potential projects and assess feasibility.
• Write and coordinate grant proposals and research new funding opportunities for land acquisition, park development, and related planning efforts.
• Oversee consultants and contractors, manage contracts, coordinate project team and collaborate with coworkers to ensure that the project scope is completed according to grant agreements, schedules, and cost limits. Assist in selection of consultants/contractors.
• Determine project scope, options, and alternatives to overcome constraints. Revise as often as needed to address unexpected conditions.
• Perform day-to-day administration of grants, prepare required reports and ensure conformance with grant agreements.
• Cooperate with other team members to accomplish project goals.
• Produce written materials including staff reports, text for publication, proposals, progress reports, and a variety of other documents.
• Manage project budgets with funding from multiple sources, keeping abreast of status and expense eligibility requirements, identifying solutions to shortfalls, and keeping up to date as projects evolve.
• Prepare Requests for Proposals/Requests for Bids, and review bids. Select and manage contractors and consultants in conjunction with other staff. Ensure bidding process meets applicable regulations. Assist with estimating and selection of vendors for best value.
• Maintain files, including documentation and authorization for expenses, project progress, contracts and grant agreements, project budgets, contacts, board actions and all other items related to a project’s development.
• Provide support to coworkers on other projects.
• Analyze, verify and obtain payment approvals for invoices.
• Maintain good habits of answering and responding to incoming telephone calls, correspondence, and when communicating and providing customer service to citizens who seek assistance.
• Maintain positive relationships with coworkers, representatives of other government agencies, non-profit organizations, homeowner’s associations, and the public at large.
• Perform related duties as required.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead and participate in group hikes, project site tours, and kayak trips with project stakeholders.
• Quantify and describe the greenhouse gas emissions benefits of potential projects based on latest accepted science, research, and generally accepted methodology.
• Represent the agency in public forums.

Depending on the MRCA's needs, park development may be emphasized in the specific job duties, including:

• Assist with coordination of construction. Achieve budget goals by monitoring vendor costs, change orders, and material and supply costs.
• Coordinate as needed with Construction Supervisors to monitor progress of in-house staff (force account).
• Manage the CEQA compliance process for potential projects.

Depending on the MRCA's needs, management of maintenance funding sources may be emphasized in the specific job duties, including:

• Analyze proposed expenses for eligibility and determine appropriate funding sources for expenses.
• Assist with budget development and monitoring for multiple locations and funds.
• Liaison frequently between operations and maintenance staff and finance staff to ensure smooth administrative processes.
• Distinguish between maintenance and capital expenses and providing documentation for full reimbursement.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to remain in a stationary position, occasionally move about inside the office to access supplies and office machinery, frequently communicate and exchange information, review handwritten, electronic and facsimile documents, observe site conditions, and operate a computer and other office productivity machinery. The employee must occasionally move items weighing up to 20 pounds inside the office.

Required Hours and Location

Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week with some scheduling flexibility. Occasional overtime work in evenings or weekends upon prior approval by supervisor. The position will work out of the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens but may be required to travel to various other locations. Offices at the River Center are spread among multiple buildings and floors. Remote working or a hybrid schedule may be allowed, subject to supervisor approval.

Public Contact

As public parklands, the majority of MRCA properties are open to the general public during operating hours. This position is likely to have physical contact with members of the public in public areas such as parking lots and shared public/office restrooms and during in-person public meetings. The MRCA is committed to protecting its staff by ensuring appropriate physical distancing and proper infection control while supporting equitable access to services. Our requirements are based on the current County of Los Angeles guidance, and are subject to change as the County updates their policies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Education and Experience

• B.A. or B.S. degree or higher.  Relevant course studies include natural resources, engineering, planning, environmental science, geography, biology, hydrology, landscape architecture, environmental design, or related fields.
• Two (2) years of highly relevant experience performing project management duties that include: creative problem solving, working on an interdisciplinary team, coordinating consultants, technical writing, scheduling, and budgeting.
• Experience desired in: public speaking; community outreach/engagement; identifying and applying for project specific funding; and construction trade or construction management.
• Ability to speak Spanish is required.

• Must have a valid California driver’s license in good standing with a satisfactory driving record at the time of hire.
• Basic First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to complete within 6 months).

• Developed understanding the watershed planning context, including in and around the Los Angeles River watershed.
• Intermediate proficiency with Office 365 and email, with particular emphasis on word-processing and spreadsheet programs. Basic understanding of native plants, animals, and ecosystems of Southern California.
• Basic understanding of California Environmental Quality Act requirements (or ability to learn within 6 months).
• Office practices and procedures.

• Prioritize varying tasks and projects, manage time, and make regular, consistent progress on multiple projects at once.
• Cooperate with coworkers and revise project approach as needed to accommodate concerns.
• Work independently, or as part of a team.
• Must be organized with meticulous attention to detail.
• Revise work approach to address changed conditions.
• Complete projects and follow oral and written directions.
• Quickly change tasks and focus.
• Consistently follow agency procedures.
• Exercise discretion and sensitivity to confidential information.
• Read maps and navigate through greater Los Angeles, in both urban developed and undeveloped open space areas.
• Prepare written and graphic materials for a variety of audiences.
• Communicate to a variety of audiences about Agency projects and objectives.
• Read maps and navigate through greater Los Angeles, in both urban developed and undeveloped open space areas.
• Learn technical material and advanced technical writing proficiency.
• Innovate and improve processes.

• Excellent oral and written English language skills. Not required to be a native English speaker, but fluency in English will be required.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of work including the general public.

Other Requirements

Candidates must have a valid California driver’s license in good standing with a satisfactory driving record. Employees must be willing to participate in agency emergency response.

All appointment offers are contingent upon the following:

• Background check including submission of fingerprints to the Department of Justice and a record clean of violent crimes or felonies.
• Successful completion of a physical examination including a drug test and TB test.
• Verification of the right to work in the United States.

COMPENSATION

Wages

The range of hourly rates for a Project Analyst II is $27.27 to $33.15.

The range of hourly rates for a Project Analyst III is $30.57 to $37.15.

Classification Level

The selected candidate may be hired as a Project Analyst II or Project Analyst III, depending on experience. A Project Analyst II will perform the functions with a moderate level of supervision, making some judgments independently, and regular check-ins for guidance and task prioritization. A Project Analyst III will perform the functions with a low level of supervision and less frequent check-ins to verify tasks and decision support. A Project Analyst III shall have the ability to advance into a team leadership role and determine project direction.

This job announcement is not intended to, and does not, create an employment contract of any kind and does not create any express or implied contractual obligations. Employment at MRCA is at-will without exception. The employee and MRCA may terminate employment at any time with or without advance notice and with or without cause.

Any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked at any time without notice.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the full job announcement.

The City of Sunnyvale is recruiting for a Plan Checker II, to review construction plans for code compliance. This position works closely with the public to issue permits/plans that protect life and property. The ideal candidate will possess technical expertise in the building codes, have strong organizational and administrative skills, and be solutions driven with strong customer service skills.

The Building Safety team works as one solution-driven, cohesive team, and encourages leadership from the ground up. Are you the next Plan Checker to join the team?

For the Plan Checker II position, the City of Sunnyvale offers:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Classic CalPERS members have 4% of the employee contributions paid by the City, leaving 3% for the employee to contribute
• Retiree medical benefits available

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package.  A complete application packet will consist of a City of Sunnyvale employment application and responses to the required supplemental questions. Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis and the next review date is 8:00am on Monday, October 17, 2022. The recruitment may close at any time without notice so interested applicants are encouraged to apply early. For complete information regarding this opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov.

Salary: $50.07 - $63.90 Hourly

The Park Development Project Manager (Class: Project Analyst II or Project Analyst III) will manage park development, landscape improvement and/or watershed planning projects. The projects will be related to MRCA's capital improvement projects, which include urban river restoration, public access, open space conservation, master planning, and park development. Projects may consist of design and construction of new park amenities, creation of parkland in urban neighborhoods, renovation of infrastructure and buildings, acquisition of land, and planning in a watershed context. Capital projects include renovation of existing facilities, new construction by contractors and force account, and fee acquisition of land interests.

Para ver la versión de PDF en español, por favor desplácese hacia abajo.

This is professional and technical work pursuant to the terms of grants, contracts, and applicable regulations, involving frequent communication with others, for a flexible person at an entry or intermediate level. Project managers must also build community support, seek funding opportunities, actively cooperate with other government agencies and non-profit organizations, and keep abreast of related planning processes. The work performed will support MRCA’s capital Workprogram for improvements, land acquisition, and major maintenance projects in nature parks within greater Los Angeles, and other MRCA efforts related to public access, open space conservation, habitat restoration, and urban park development.

Ability to speak Spanish is required.

This position may report to the Deputy Chief of Park Development, Chief of Watershed Planning, or other Executive-level staff depending on MRCA's needs. Assorted tasks may be supervised by Executive Staff and may include participation in multi-division teams. The position supervises no other staff. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Implement multiple projects simultaneously: The project manager is the central point of contact on all issues concerning assigned projects and will be responsible for project quality. Perform project tracking, scheduling, and budget management.
• Oversee consultants and contractors, manage contracts, coordinate project team and collaborate with coworkers to ensure that the project scope is completed according to grant agreements, schedules, and cost limits. Assist in selection of consultants/contractors.
• Determine project scope, options, and alternatives to overcome constraints. Revise as often as needed to address unexpected conditions.
• Perform day-to-day administration of grants, prepare required reports and ensure conformance with grant agreements.
• Cooperate with other team members to accomplish project goals.
• Produce written materials including staff reports, text for publication, proposals, progress reports, and a variety of other documents.
• Manage project budgets with funding from multiple sources, keeping abreast of status and expense eligibility requirements, identifying solutions to shortfalls, and keeping up to date as projects evolve.
• Assist with coordination of construction. Coordinate with others to monitor progress of in-house staff (force account) and subcontractors, assure compliance with plans and specifications, and troubleshoot as needed.
• Prepare Requests for Proposals/Requests for Bids, and review bids. Select and manage contractors and consultants in conjunction with other staff. Ensure bidding process meets applicable regulations. Assist with estimating and selection of vendors for best value.
• Maintain files, including documentation and authorization for expenses, project progress, contracts and grant agreements, project budgets, contacts, board actions and all other items related to a project’s development.
• Manage the CEQA compliance process for potential projects.
• Provide support to coworkers on other projects.
• Analyze, verify and obtain payment approvals for invoices.
• Maintain good habits of answering and responding to incoming telephone calls, correspondence, and when communicating and providing customer service to citizens who seek assistance.
• Maintain positive relationships with coworkers, representatives of other government agencies, non-profit organizations, homeowner’s associations, and the public at large.
• Perform related duties as required.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead and participate in group hikes, project site tours, and kayak trips with project stakeholders.
• Quantify and describe the greenhouse gas emissions benefits of potential projects based on latest accepted science, research, and generally accepted methodology.
• Represent the agency in public forums.

Depending on the MRCA's needs, landscape architecture may be emphasized in the specific job duties, including:

• Produce landscape improvement plans, details, and specifications, at conceptual design, schematic design, and construction document phases with both hand-drawn graphics, computer graphic programs (e.g. Adobe graphic suite, sketch-up, rivet, and/or any other 3D digital rendering programs), and CAD techniques.
• Produce irrigation designs utilizing Land F/X software.
• Research new construction/architectural products and technologies.
• Perform assessment of architectural barriers and analyze options for barrier removal. 

Depending on the MRCA's needs, watershed planning may be emphasized in the specific job duties, including:

• Analyze various planning documents and processes for consistency and impacts on MRCA's watershed planning priorities. Write formal comment letters and and informal memoranda.
• Participate in planning processes related to the Los Angeles River and other local watersheds, at both regional and individual project scales.
• Identify potential projects and assess feasibility.
• Write and coordinate grant proposals and research new funding opportunities for land acquisition, park development, and related planning efforts.

Depending on the MRCA's needs, management of maintenance funding sources may be emphasized in the specific job duties, including:

• Analyze proposed expenses for eligibility and determine appropriate funding sources for expenses.
• Assist with budget development and monitoring for multiple locations and funds.
• Liaison frequently between operations and maintenance staff and finance staff to ensure smooth administrative processes.
• Distinguish between maintenance and capital expenses and providing documentation for full reimbursement.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required remain in a stationary position, occasionally move about inside the office to access supplies and office machinery, frequently communicate and exchange information, review handwritten, electronic and facsimile documents, and operate a computer and other office productivity machinery. The employee must occasionally move items weighing up to 20 pounds inside the office.

During project site surveys, the employee is regularly required to position self to perform measurement and inventory tasks, frequently move about work sites, operate a mobile system to complete checklists, travel to various park sites, frequently operate measuring tools to record measurements indoors and in outdoor weather conditions, transport tools between vehicles and work sites on a daily basis, and occasionally ascend/descend a ladder to access areas of work.

Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week with some scheduling flexibility. Occasional overtime work in evenings or weekends upon prior approval by supervisor. The position will work out of the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens and will be required to travel to various other locations. Offices at the River Center are spread among multiple buildings and floors. Remote working or a hybrid schedule may be allowed, subject to supervisor approval.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

• B.A. or B.S. degree. Relevant course studies include landscape architecture, environmental design, natural resources, engineering, planning, environmental science, geography, biology, or related fields.  An Associate's degree may be substituted with at least two (2) years of highly relevant experience.
• One (1) year of highly relevant experience performing project management duties that include: creative problem solving, working on an interdisciplinary team, coordinating consultants, technical writing, scheduling, and budgeting.
• Experience desired in public speaking, community outreach/engagement, identifying and applying for project specific funding, and construction trade or construction management.
• Ability to speak Spanish is required.

• Must have a valid California driver’s license in good standing with a satisfactory driving record at the time of hire.
• Basic First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to complete within 6 months).

• Intermediate proficiency with Office 365 and email, with particular emphasis on word-processing and spreadsheet programs.
• Office practices and procedures.
• Basic understanding of native plants, animals, and ecosystems of Southern California.
• Basic understanding of design and landscape construction processes (or ability to learn within 6 months).
• Basic understanding of California Environmental Quality Act requirements (or ability to learn within 6 months).
• Office practices and procedures.

• Prioritize varying tasks and projects, manage time, and make regular, consistent progress on multiple projects at once.
• Cooperate with coworkers and revise project approach as needed to accommodate concerns.
• Work independently, or as part of a team.

• Must be organized with meticulous attention to detail.

• Revise work approach to address changed conditions.
• Complete projects and follow oral and written directions.
• Quickly change tasks and focus.
• Consistently follow agency procedures.
• Exercise discretion and sensitivity to confidential information.
• Read maps and navigate through greater Los Angeles, in both urban developed and undeveloped open space areas.
• Prepare written and graphic materials for a variety of audiences.
• Communicate to a variety of audiences about Agency projects and objectives.
• Read maps and navigate through greater Los Angeles, in both urban developed and undeveloped open space areas.

• Excellent oral and written English language skills. Not required to be a native English speaker, but fluency in English will be required.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of work including the general public.

The selected candidate may be hired as a Project Analyst II or Project Analyst III, depending on experience. A Project Analyst II will perform the functions with a moderate to high level of supervision, and is not expected to make many judgments independently. A Project Analyst III will perform the functions with a low level of supervision and less frequent check-ins to verify tasks and decision support. A Project Analyst III shall have the ability to advance into a team leadership role and determine project direction. 

This job announcement is not intended to, and does not, create an employment contract of any kind and does not create any express or implied contractual obligations. Employment at MRCA is at-will without exception. The employee and MRCA may terminate employment at any time with or without advance notice and with or without cause.

Any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked at any time without notice.

The Staff Landscape Architect will oversee design elements of all park development/landscape improvement projects, prepare landscape designs, construction documents and specifications, perform construction observation and troubleshooting, provide general project management and administration, and represent the agency at public meetings.

Para ver la versión de PDF en español, por favor desplácese hacia abajo.

This is highly technical and professional work for a person at a senior staff/management level. The work performed will support MRCA’s operation of nature parks within greater Los Angeles, land acquisition and capital improvement Workprograms, and other efforts related to public access, open space conservation, habitat restoration, and urban park development. 

Ability to speak Spanish and a current landscape architect license issued by the State of California are required.

This position reports to the Deputy Executive Officer. Assorted tasks may be supervised by Executive Staff and may include participation in multi-division teams. The position may supervise other staff at the entry-level or intermediate project manager level. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Produce landscape improvement plans, details, and specifications, at conceptual design, schematic design,  and construction document phases with both hand-drawn graphics and CAD techniques.
• Coordinate with Construction Supervisors to monitor progress of in-house staff (force account) and subcontractors, assure compliance with plans and specifications, and troubleshoot as needed.
• Coordinate with Site Managers to monitor landscape maintenance activities and improvements; troubleshoot as needed. Provide input and guidance on long-term management plans for existing and new facilities.
• Sign/stamp plans. Interpret and apply applicable ordinances, regulations, and standard operating procedures.
• Produce early concept designs for a variety of project types.
• Identify and scope improvement projects for existing facilities.
• Monitor and track project budgets and spending.
• Review and approve landscape plans, details, and specifications prepared by others for park development projects.
• Coordinate the assessment and removal of architectural barriers.
• Make reports about improvement projects to Executive Staff, Governing Board, funders, and the general public.
• Conduct a bi-annual Request for Qualifications for various professional disciplines to maintain a current list of qualified consultants.
• Review proposal submissions from environmental design consultants and make recommendations to project managers.
• Attend senior staff meetings and participate in management discussions.
• Oversee agency design standards. Research new products and technologies.
• Perform Construction Administration tasks and respond to RFIs from contractors and construction management consultants.
• Specify and procure supplies for improvement projects and work closely with vendors.
• Produce written materials including construction specifications, staff reports, text for publication, proposals, progress reports, and a variety of other documents.
• Determine project scope, options, and alternatives to overcome constraints. Revise as often as needed to address unexpected conditions.
• Maintain good habits of answering and responding to incoming telephone calls, correspondence, and when communicating and providing customer service to citizens who seek assistance.
• Maintain positive relationships with coworkers, representatives of other government agencies, non-profit organizations, homeowner’s associations, and the public at large.
• Lead and participate in group hikes, project site tours, and kayak trips with project stakeholders.
• Represent the agency in public forums.
• Perform related duties as required.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Write and coordinate grant proposals and research new funding opportunities for land acquisition, park development, and related planning efforts.
• Perform day-to-day administration of grants, prepare required reports and ensure conformance with grant agreements. 

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required remain in a stationary position, occasionally move about inside the office to access supplies and office machinery, frequently communicate and exchange information, review handwritten, electronic and facsimile documents, and operate a computer and other office productivity machinery. The employee must occasionally move items weighing up to 20 pounds inside the office.

During project site surveys, the employee is regularly required to position self to perform measurement and inventory tasks, frequently move about work sites, operate a mobile system to complete checklists, travel to various park sites, frequently operate measuring tools to record measurements indoors and in outdoor weather conditions, transport tools between vehicles and work sites on a daily basis, and occasionally ascend/descend a ladder to access areas of work.

Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week with some scheduling flexibility. The position will work out of the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens and will be required to travel to various other locations. Offices at the River Center are spread among multiple buildings and floors. Remote working or a hybrid schedule may be allowed, subject to supervisor approval.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

• B.L.A, B.A. or B.S. degree. 
• Completion of Landscape Architecture degree (bachelor or masters). Completion of an approved extension certificate program meeting education requirements for State of California licensure may be substituted.
• Four (4) years of experience with landscape architect duties. 
• Work experience directly managing landscape improvement projects with force account or via design/build relationship. Provide at least three (3) examples of completed projects.
• Experience in the public sector in park planning and design is desired.
• Ability to speak Spanish is required.

• Current, valid Landscape Architect license with the State of California.

• State of California Building Code and ADAS requirements for public facilities.
• Intermediate proficiency with AutoCAD, BlueDAG, and Land F/X software, or ability to learn.
• Construction practices for architecture and landscape improvements.
• California Environmental Quality Act requirements, or ability to learn.
• Basic proficiency in email and Office 365, or ability to learn.
• Office practices and procedures.

• Cooperate with coworkers and revise project approach as needed to accommodate concerns.
• Travel to various park sites to conduct site evaluations and evaluate projects.
• Maintain files and records in an orderly manner.
• Prioritize varying tasks and projects to manage multiple projects at once.
• Work independently to handle multiple tasks under deadlines.
• Revise work approach to address changed conditions.
• Complete projects and follow oral and written directions.
• Consistently follow established procedures.
• Exercise discretion and sensitivity to confidential information.
• Communicate to a variety of audiences about projects and objectives.
• Read maps and navigate through greater Los Angeles, in both urban developed and undeveloped open space areas.

• Accurate use of measuring devices for distance, height, slope and adjacencies. 
• Demonstrated creativity and ability to troubleshoot landscape construction issues
• Spatial analysis.

• Excellent oral and written English language skills. Not required to be a native English speaker, but fluency in English will be required.

• Excellent organizational skills.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of work including the general public. 

This job announcement is not intended to, and does not, create an employment contract of any kind and does not create any express or implied contractual obligations. Employment at MRCA is at-will without exception. The employee and MRCA may terminate employment at any time with or without advance notice and with or without cause.

Any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked at any time without notice.