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The Seasonal Ranger Assistant falls under the general direction of the Chief Ranger and will support Park Staff and Rangers in maintaining the natural beauty and safety of the Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority’s various parks and open spaces. This role involves assisting with public safety, visitor services, educational programs, resource management, and park maintenance. The ideal candidate is passionate about the outdoors, enjoys working with the public, and is committed to environmental conservation.

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This is a professional position that requires a highly motivated, responsible, organized and self-starter individual who can handle an array of tasks, has good judgement and can make decisions, and works independently or as part of a team.

Type

This is a seasonal, non-exempt, at-will position.

This position reports to the Division Chief. Assorted tasks may be supervised by other Executive staff. 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.

• Maintain electronic and mechanical pay stations.
• Collection and transport of money from pay stations.
• Issuing parking citations.
• Perform traffic control.
• Open and close park gates.
• Use, wear, and maintain an assigned uniform.
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on agency parks and various equipment.
• Perform a variety of maintenance, restoration, and repair duties.
• Remove graffiti as necessary, empty trash cans, clean restrooms, clean up litter, and remove graffiti and illegal dumping.
• Conduct interpretive programs.
• Operate with substantial independence and coordinate work with others in completing assignments.
• Coordinate with vendors and other government entities.
• Maintain good habits of answering and responding to incoming telephone calls, and 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.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Physical Demands

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 hike, run, bend, lift, stoop, kneel, reach and climb, lift and carry items weighing up to 60 pounds for a distance up to 50 feet both indoors and outdoors, constantly work in outdoor weather conditions and frequently move about work sites, Incumbents should have physical strength, endurance and agility; be mentally alert and physically sound; hearing and vision sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job.

Required Hours and Location

This position is seasonal with an assigned 10-hour shift on Fridays and optional 10-hour shifts on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday as needed.  This position will terminate at or before 900 hours and is intended to run concurrently with the Background Investigation and Hiring process for Ranger Trainee, for Seasonal Ranger Assistants who communicate an interest in doing so within the introductory period of the season. Must be available to work at various locations.

Public Contact

As public parklands, the majority of MRCA properties are open to the general public during operating hours. This position will have contact with members of the public in public areas such as parking lots and shared public/office restrooms, and during public meetings.

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.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Have a High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• One (1) year of experience in customer service, law enforcement, parking enforcement, EMS, or other related field is recommended for appointment.

• Certificate in First Aid/CPR for the professional rescuer or equivalent, or ability to attain upon employment.

• Common Windows-based programs including Office 365, word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
• Proficiency in basic mathematics; basic grammar and spelling as required in preparing reports and records.

• Prioritize varying tasks, projects, and manage multiple projects at once.
• Work independently to handle multiple tasks under deadlines.
• Revise work approach and/or tactics to address changing conditions.
• Complete projects and follow oral and written directions.
• Quickly change tasks and focus.
• Exercise discretion and sensitivity to confidential information.
• Ability to complete the MRCA Wildland Fire training upon employment.

• Excellent oral and written English language skills. Not required to be a native English speaker, but fluency in English is required.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of work including the general public.
• Emotional maturity; tact and diplomacy; poise and self-confidence.

Other Requirements:

Candidates must have a valid California driver’s license in good standing with a satisfactory driving record (must provide DMV printout). Employees must be willing to participate in agency emergency response. Bilingual skills in English, and other locally common language, such as Spanish, Korean, Farsi, Chinese, Armenian, Yiddish, or Tagalog is desired.

All appointment offers are contingent upon the following:

• Background check including submission of fingerprints to 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.

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 Ranger is a sworn peace officer who provides visitor services and resource protection on MRCA owned and/or managed parkland.

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

This position performs a wide variety of duties including park maintenance, law enforcement, first aid, wildland firefighting, and public safety patrol. The Ranger assists the public in natural resource interpretation and performs other duties as needed.  

This is a professional position that requires a highly motivated, responsible, and organized individual. Candidate must be a self-starter who can handle an array of tasks, has good judgement, and can work independently or as part of a team.

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

This position reports to a Supervising Ranger. Assorted tasks may be supervised directly by Division Chief or other Executive Staff. The position may provide technical and/or functional direction to volunteers and other groups.

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.

• Provide a wide range of law enforcement and public safety services including, but not limited to wildland firefighting, search and rescue, and first aid.
• Respond to emergency situations on parkland to protect life and property.
• Make physical arrests, issue citations, and write reports.
• Conduct criminal and administrative investigations.
• Perform traffic control.
• Use, wear, and maintain protective equipment which includes various types of firearms, batons, chemical agents, body armor, and handcuffs.
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on agency vehicles and various equipment.
• Perform a variety of maintenance, restoration, and repair duties.
• Remove graffiti as necessary, empty trash cans, clean restrooms, clean up litter, and remove illegal dumping.
• Conduct interpretive programs, such as leading hikes, kayak trips or campfire programs.   
• Operate with substantial independence and coordinate work with others in completing assignments.
• Coordinate with organized public groups utilizing park facilities.
• Coordinate with vendors and other government entities.
• Maintain good habits of answering and responding to incoming telephone calls and correspondence, as well as 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. 

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 hike, run, bend, lift, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb, lift and carry items weighing up to 60 pounds for a distance up to 50 feet both indoors and outdoors, constantly work in outdoor weather conditions, and frequently move about work sites.

Incumbents should have physical strength, endurance, and agility; be mentally alert and physically sound; and have hearing and vision sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job.

40 hours per week or in an alternative schedule (9/80 or 4/10 program), must be available to work nights, weekends, holidays and overtime. Must be available to work at various locations.

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 current County of Los Angeles guidance and are subject to change as the County updates its 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.

PATHWAY A:

1. Possession of High School Diploma conferred by a US Department of Education recognized High School OR General Education Certificate.

AND

2. Possession of a certificate showing graduation from a California Peace Officer Standards & Training (POST) Regular Basic Academy.

PATHWAY A CANDIDATES WILL BEGIN THE RANGER TRAINING & ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (RTAP) UPON HIRE.

PATHWAY B:

1. Possession of High School Diploma conferred by a US Department of Education recognized High School OR General Education Certificate.

AND

2. Current or previous employment by the Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority as a Seasonal Ranger Assistant or Public Officer pursuant to California Public Resources Code § 5786.17.

PATHWAY B CANDIDATES WILL BE APPOINTED AS A TEMPORARY RANGER ASSISTANT UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THEY CAN BE ENROLLED IN A POST BASIC ACADEMY.

• Common Windows-based programs including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. 
• Proficiency in basic mathematics; basic grammar and spelling as required in preparing reports and records. 

• Prioritize varying tasks and projects, manage time, and make regular, consistent progress on multiple projects at once.
• Work independently to handle multiple tasks under deadlines.
• Revise work approach and/or tactics to address changing conditions.
• Complete projects and follow oral and written directions.
• Quickly change tasks and focus.
• Exercise discretion and sensitivity to confidential information.
• Maintain the ability to possess, carry, and qualify with agency issued firearms.

• Excellent oral and written English language skills. Not required to be a native English speaker, but fluency in English is required.
• Bilingual skills in English, and other locally common language, such as Spanish, Korean, Farsi, Chinese, Armenian, Yiddish, or Tagalog is desired.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of work including the general public.
• Emotional maturity; tact and diplomacy; poise and self-confidence.

• A thorough background check including submission of fingerprints to the Department of Justice and FBI, including a firearm background check, and a record clean of violent crimes or felonies. 
• Psychological examination. 
• Successful completion of a physical examination including a drug test. 
• Meet requirements of the Government Sections 1031 for employment as a California Peace Officer.
• Written Test.

The starting hourly rate for Ranger Trainee is $22.58 – $27.45 per hour.  At the completion of all training requirements and upon appointment as a Ranger by the Executive Officer, the wage increases to a range of $33.47 - $40.69 per hour.

Existing MRCA employees may be compensated at a higher rate if they can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Chief Deputy Executive Officer, that appropriate additional duties will be performed in addition to the position’s essential duties. This provision does not apply to applicants who are not currently employed by MRCA and may be exercised only at MRCA’s discretion and as budget allows.

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 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.

The Park Assistant III (Class: 180) will perform a variety of skilled park maintenance work. Specific tasks vary with location and include regular maintenance of picnic grounds, restrooms, and developed areas, trash removal, trail maintenance, plant care including mowing and brush removal, irrigation repair, fence repairs, assembly and installation of site furnishings and signs, and delivery of materials and equipment to job sites.

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

This is skills-based physical labor work, in all weather conditions, for a person at an entry level or intermediate level. The work performed will support MRCA’s operation of nature parks within greater Los Angeles and other MRCA efforts related to public access, open space conservation, habitat restoration, and urban park development.

Park Assistant III positions exist in the Routes, Construction and Developed Resources Divisions and specific duties may include but are not limited to:

Duties for the Developed Resources division also include repairs to utility infrastructure, building repairs, and skilled gardening, and assistance during special events.

Duties for the Construction division also include building renovation (carpentry, electrical, plumbing), utility infrastructure repairs, and new construction of park amenities and irrigation systems.

Depending on the division, the position may report to an Operations Manager, Deputy Division Chief or Division Chief. The position does not supervise other staff but may occasionally direct the work of volunteers, court crews, seasonal workers, volunteers, and youth crews. The employee may work independently or as part of a crew.

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.

• Maintain picnic grounds and parking areas, including regular trash removal and pickup and graffiti removal. Regular inspection of park sites to determine maintenance needs.
• Clean and restock restrooms. 
• Inspect irrigation systems and perform repairs and adjustments as needed.
• Maintain landscape and natural areas to reduce fire hazards and perform weed control activities.
• Follow verbal and written directions.
• Apply pesticides and herbicides in accordance with applicable laws and regulations under the supervision of the pesticide manager.
• Make repair to hiking trails, stream crossings, and equestrian trails.
• Operate light equipment such as mowers, edgers, brush cutters and power tools, and perform minor mechanical repairs.
• Install various park amenities including benches, signs, fencing, landscaping, irrigation, and trails.
• Inspect drinking fountains and perform repairs as needed.
• Participate in agency emergency response.
• Assist in preparing and cleaning up for events as needed.
• Maintain good habits of answering and responding to incoming telephone calls and emails, and when communicating and providing customer service to citizens who seek assistance.
• Maintain positive relationships with coworkers and the public at large.
• Perform related duties as required.

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 lift and carry items weighing up to 60 pounds for a distance up to 50 feet both indoors and outdoors;  frequently operate heavy equipment, hand tools, light equipment and power tools; constantly work in outdoor weather conditions; frequently move about work sites; communicate and exchange information; observe and document site conditions; transport equipment and tools between vehicles and work sites on a daily basis; and occasionally ascend/descend a ladder to access areas of work.

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.

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Two (2) years of experience in grounds maintenance, plant care, facility/building maintenance or related field.

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

• Safe working practices, Cal-OSHA requirements.
• Automatic Irrigation systems.
• Pesticide and herbicide application.
• Proper tool care and storage.
• Basic proficiency in email and Office 365, or ability to learn.
• Regulatory requirements, or ability to learn.
• Bilingual skills in English and another locally common language, such as Spanish, Korean, Farsi, Chinese, Armenian, Yiddish, or Tagalog is highly desired.

• Maintain a safe and clean working environment.
• Consistently follow procedures.
• Prioritize varying tasks and projects.
• Work in all weather conditions. Perform demanding labor on multiple consecutive days outdoors in hot weather.
• Revise work approach to address changed conditions.
• Complete projects and follow oral and written directions.
• Learn technical material.
• Work independently and with others.
• Complete the MRCA Wildland Fire Academy, if desired by the employee.
• Read maps and navigate through greater Los Angeles in both urban developed and undeveloped open space areas.

• Effective oral English language skills. Not required to be a native English speaker, but fluency in English will be required.
• Follow safety procedures and utilize/wear protective equipment as needed.
• 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.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF BELOW.
 

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.