Community Programs & Engagement Coordinator

Community Programs & Engagement Coordinator

We are The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, a 501(c)(3) tax‐exempt nonprofit that has spent over 40 years conserving natural resources, agricultural land, and open spaces for the benefit of present and future generations. Our work has protected more than 58,000 acres and thousands of residents enjoy the outdoors across the county. We are expanding our efforts in the Santa Maria Valley and need a dedicated community programs & engagement professional.

The Community Programs & Engagement Coordinator is a full‑time position based in the Santa Maria Valley that requires travel throughout Santa Barbara County. Bilingual (Spanish) is required. The role plays a key part in advancing our community engagement and conservation goals. You will be the face of the Land Trust in Northern Santa Barbara County and collaborate with diverse partners to create inclusive outdoor experiences.

• Plan, organize, and implement countywide community programs
  :
  Build community programs from the ground up, plan and execute guided hikes, educational programs, promotional events, and manage logistics and coordination. Shape outreach for the possible development of a new preserve in Santa Maria.
• Develop bilingual programs and communications
  :
  Run bilingual hikes and outdoor events, coordinate volunteers, partner with local organizations, build relationships with Tribes and BIPOC communities, and bring people into nature.
• Represent the Land Trust in collaborations
  :
  Host volunteer events, collaborate on new community partnerships, represent the Land Trust at public meetings, and support outreach for a potential new preserve.
• Contribute to fundraising activities
  :
  Prepare grant materials, support donor tours, assist with event logistics, and keep programs on track and on budget.

• Fluent in Spanish and confident connecting across cultures.
• Experience in project management, program support, community programs, engagement, or outreach.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with the ability to handle problems with tact.
• College degree is helpful but not required; relevant experience counts.
• Experience leading outdoor programs, working in recreation or environmental education, serving as a park ranger, guiding community groups, or running engagement initiatives.
• Ability to solve problems on the fly, stay organized, manage multiple moving parts, and work that genuinely impacts people.

• Hiking up to 5 miles on uneven terrain.
• Lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Maintaining CPR/first‑aid certifications.
• Travel throughout Santa Barbara County.

Salary: $70,304 – $75,000 (includes consideration for bilingual requirements).

We offer generous vacation, sick, holiday pay, paid health and dental premiums, a retirement plan with company match, and a supportive, mission‑driven team culture. This role works Tuesday through Saturday with occasional evenings.

If your background and experience align with our goals, apply directly through our website. We will review your resume and let you know whether your qualifications fit the role.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. We make employment decisions without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, or any protected characteristic.

Seniority level: Entry level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Other

Referencing a referral can increase your chances of an interview by approximately 2x.