Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Conservation Manager
Job Title: Conservation Manager
Reports to: Park Director
Buffalo Bayou Partnership
Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BBP) is the non-profit organization revitalizing and transforming Buffalo Bayou, Houston’s most significant natural resource. BBP works along a 10-mile stretch of the waterway from Shepherd Drive to the Port of Houston Turning Basin. Over the past 30 years, BBP has spearheaded
numerous award-winning parks and green space projects, most notably the $58 million Buffalo Bayou
Park.
Buffalo Bayou Park
Buffalo Bayou Park, a 2.3-mile 160-acre green space just west of downtown is one of Houston’s most
iconic green spaces and one of the country’s great urban parks. BBP operates and maintains the park
under a long-term agreement with the City of Houston, Harris County Flood Control District and
Downtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) #3. The park serves as critical infrastructure for both active recreation and cultural venues, while preserving the corridor’s sensitive ecology and critical role in flood water conveyance.
Overview of Conservation Manager Position
Under the direct supervision of the Buffalo Bayou Park Director, the Conservation Manager is responsible
for the restoration and enhancement of Buffalo Bayou Partnerships natural environment which includes
woodlands, groves, and prairie and wildflower areas. The Conservation Manager also oversees planting
and maintenance activities in riparian areas where there is continual erosion and provides guidance to
incorporate native vegetation. The Conservation Manager is to create a workplace culture where
professionalism, dependability and values are in line with Buffalo Bayou Partnerships values and ethics.
Is also to serve as a coach to develop and improve departmental knowledge and skills of existing and new staff, leading by example in standards of operation.
Duties
- Oversee and manage native habitat restoration
- Management of non-native species (invasive species control)
- Oversee and maintain riparian vegetation planting
- Develop standard operating procedures manual and on-going management and maintenance
plan for natural areas, required daily inspections and evaluation of sites - Work cooperatively with the Zone Supervisors, Horticulture and grounds maintenance staff to
foster relationships in creating a positive and productive work environment - Collaborate with the Volunteer Coordinator to identify opportunities for volunteer projects and
assist with these activities - Maintain optimal environmental management programs i.e. GIS or equivalent, using strong
technical and analytical skills for proper data collection, analysis and reporting - Interface with outside contractors and consultant hired for conservation-related projects, project management
- Primary work is outdoors; must be able to work outdoors in weather conditions ranging from
extreme heat to extreme cold temperatures (office work will vary depending on assignment) - Maintains inventory of tools/equipment and herbicide, orders as needed
- Promotes individual and professional growth and development by meeting requirements for
continuing education, skills competency, supports departmental-based goals which contribute to
the success of the organization; serves as a mentor and resource to less experienced staff in the
Conservation department - Participates in the orientation of employees; instructs staff regarding hazards and safety to ensure
safe procedures/use of equipment; checks staff work to ensure performance and safety standards
are met - Serve as liaison to other environmental organizations and public agencies that manage flood
mitigation and conservation-related programs (i.e. Harris County Flood Control District, Houston
Parks Department, Katy Prairie Conservancy, Houston Wilderness, etc.) - Reports to Park Director
- Other duties as assigned within Buffalo Bayou Partnership
Experience and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in ecological restoration, environmental science, natural resource management
or wildlife biology - Five to 10 years of experience managing natural resource projects
- Ability to lead and supervise staff, must have supervisory/management experience
- Strong knowledge of Houston’s native flora, soils, hydrology and wildlife is highly desired
- Advanced knowledge of regulatory requirements and recordkeeping as required by local, state
and federal law - Ability to read, analyze and interpret project plans and budgets submitted by contractors and
suppliers - Ability to perform physical labor in all weather conditions
- Ability to operate power equipment
- Ability to lift 50 lbs.
- Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) Pesticide Applicator License required or secured within six
months of employment
Salary and Benefits
Buffalo Bayou Partnership offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits.
Please submit cover letter and resume by email, fax or mail to:
jobs@buffalobayou.org
Joe Rodriguez
Buffalo Bayou Park Director
1803 Memorial Drive