Natural Resources Director

Job Overview

The Director of Natural Resources is a pivotal role responsible for managing environmental programs and resources, with a primary focus on preserving and safeguarding natural resources and ensuring water supply and quality. The position involves supervising staff, managing environmental programs, projects and resources, and liaising with regulatory agencies and the public to enhance and maintain the natural resources under OCWD's purview.

• Supervision and Management:
  • Supervise a team of professionals, provide guidance, conduct performance evaluations, and ensure staff training.
  • Oversee the prioritization and assignment of work; make recommendations on hiring, terminations, and disciplinary actions.
• Team Leadership:
  • Lead a dedicated team of professionals in the Natural Resources department.
  • Provide mentorship and support for staff development and growth.
  • Forge and maintain relationships with other OCWD departments to facilitate ongoing compliance with permits issued by USACE, USFWS, RWQCB, and CDFW.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  • Ensure and track compliance with all relevant environmental and natural resources regulations and permits.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of environmental laws and advocate for OCWD's interests in regulatory matters.
  • Maintain necessary permits with wildlife agencies to conduct required wildlife management and ecological restoration activities.
• Environmental Programs and Projects:
  • Manage environmental programs, property, resources, and projects, including research formulation, regulatory compliance, report preparation, and presentations.
  • Develop strategies, policies, and procedures for effective environmental management.
  • Develop interpretive materials and/or displays, evaluate student research proposals, and support educational outreach messaging.
  • Establish environmental priorities, monitor legal requirements, oversee construction activities, and develop environmental plans and related activities.
• Emerging Environmental Issues:
  • Develop programs and projects to address emerging environmental challenges.
  • Stay updated on environmental science and related developments to inform OCWD's strategies and actions.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Participate in meetings, task forces, committees, and groups related to environmental issues in support of the agency’s mission.
  • Maintain positive working relationships with regulatory agencies and organizations while representing OCWD's interests.
  • Negotiate project mitigation measures with wildlife and regulatory agencies for District projects and oversee implementation and monitoring of required measures.
  • Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as community organizations, to build partnerships and foster environmental stewardship.
• Ecosystem Management:
  • Oversee OCWD’s role in the preservation and restoration of the Santa Ana River Watershed's natural habitats and ecosystems.
  • Collaborate with environmental agencies and organizations to ensure the long-term health of the watershed’s flora and fauna.
  • Establish and execute strategies for sustainable management of water resources within the Santa Ana River Watershed.
  • Promote responsible water use and conservation to address current and future water challenges.
  • Manage a watershed-wide effort to maximize natural resources, including water supply.
• Water Quality Assurance:
  • Develop and implement programs to monitor and maintain water quality within the watershed.
  • Implement innovative techniques and best practices to minimize pollution and protect aquatic life.
• Budget Administration:
  • Assist in the development and administration of budgets for environmental programs and projects.
  • Seek external financial support to assist with successful execution of operational activities.
  • Manage the department's budget efficiently, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to meet program goals.
• Public Relations:
  • Communicate with the general public and the Public Relations Office regarding the successful recovery of endangered species and natural resources.
  • Collaborate with habitat management efforts and groups that could impact OCWD's lands, projects, and operations.

• Knowledge of:
  • Applicable…