What are the responsibilities and job description for the Field Operation Program Manager position at Nisqually Indian Tribe?
GENERALSUMMARY
The Field Operations Program Manager for Natural Resources plays a critical role in managing the day-to-day field operations within the Nisqually Indian Tribe's Natural Resources Department. This position ensures effective planning, coordination, and execution of field activities related to fisheries, habitat restoration, wildlife management, and environmental protection. The Field Operations Program Manager will oversee field staff, manage logistics, and ensure that projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with tribal, state, and federal regulations. This role is essential for advancing the Tribe's commitment to sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship.
This position ensures the confidentiality, security, and accuracy of records, and promotes positive employee, customer, and community relations. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required and outstanding customer service to fellow employees, customers, vendors, etc. is expected. Regular attendance is required, and on occasion, later hours or weekend time may be required with project deadlines and a neat well-groomed professional appearance is essential at all times.
PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Field Operations Management:
•Coordinate, and oversee all field operations for natural resources projects, including fisheries management, habitat restoration, wildlife surveys, and environmental monitoring.
•Ensure field activities are carried out in accordance with project timelines, goals, and safety protocols.
•Coordinate field crew schedules, work assignments, and resource allocation with the other Program Managers to maximize operational efficiency.
Team Leadership & Supervision:
•Lead and supervise field staff, technicians, and interns, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure the successful completion of fieldwork.
•Conduct regular team meetings to review project progress, safety updates, and operational needs.
•Ensure adherence to safety protocols and provide field staff with the necessary tools, equipment, and resources.
Habitat Restoration & Fisheries Management:
•Oversee the implementation of habitat restoration projects, including streambank stabilization, reforestation, wetland restoration, and fish passage improvement.
•Assist with fisheries management activities, including salmon monitoring, hatchery operations, and spawning surveys.
•Ensure field activities align with ecological best practices and tribal conservation priorities.
Regulatory Compliance & Environmental Stewardship:
•Ensure field operations comply with environmental regulations, including tribal, federal, and state laws (e.g., Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act).
•Maintain up-to-date knowledge of environmental policies and practices to ensure that field operations meet or exceed legal requirements.
•Collaborate with regulatory agencies and stakeholders as needed during project implementation.
Logistics & Resource Management:
•Manage the procurement and maintenance of field equipment, vehicles, and supplies.
•Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and other partners to ensure timely delivery of materials and services needed for fieldwork.
•Develop and maintain a comprehensive inventory of field equipment, ensuring that all tools and machinery are in good working condition.
Data Collection & Reporting:
•Oversee accurate collection, recording, and analysis of field data related to fish populations, wildlife, water quality, and habitat conditions.
•Ensures field data is documented and reported to the appropriate Program Manager and the Director of Natural Resources and relevant stakeholders.
•Assist with the preparation of technical reports, presentations, and grant applications based on field data and project outcomes.
Budget Management:
•Assist in the development and management of budgets for field operations, ensuring efficient use of resources.
•Monitor expenses related to field activities and provide regular financial updates to the Director of Natural Resources.
•Assist with securing funding and managing grants related to field projects and programs.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:
•Collaborate with other departments, tribal members, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to ensure the success of field projects.
•Represent the Natural Resources Department in meetings, workshops, and public events, providing updates on field operations and projects.
•Engage with tribal members to share information about ongoing field projects and gather feedback.
Innovation & Process Improvement:
•Identify opportunities for improving field operations through the adoption of new technologies, techniques, or processes.
•Stay informed of industry best practices and innovations in natural resource management and field operations.
•Promote continuous improvement in fieldwork efficiency, safety, and environmental impact.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
•Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science, Fisheries, Ecology, or related field. Relevant experience/education may be substituted for formal education.
•3 years of experience in natural resource field operations, including experience in fisheries, habitat restoration, wildlife management, or environmental monitoring.
•Proven experience supervising and, managing field crews, coordinating logistics, and executing fieldwork in remote or challenging environments.
•Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's license and maintain a driving record that meets the minimum requirements established by Nisqually Indian Tribes vehicle insurance provider.
•Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
PREFERRED QUALIFCATIONS
•Certifications in the field of safety, first aid, or other relevant areas are preferred.
•Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's history, customs, traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
•Experience working with Federally Recognized Tribes.
SUPERVISION
This position will train, supervise, and evaluate all Field Operations staff.
COMPETENCIES
•Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise in the field, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
•Commitment to ensuring a safe working environment and adherence to safety protocols.
•Ability to work in diverse and sometimes physically demanding field conditions.
•Ability to work effectively in teams and foster collaboration across departments and stakeholders.
•Ensure accurate data collection and reporting, with a strong focus on quality control.
•Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide field staff.
•Excellent organizational and logistical skills to manage complex field operations.
•Proficiency in data collection methods, field survey techniques, and the use of GPS, GIS, and other field tools.
•Knowledge of relevant environmental regulations and best practices in natural resource management.
•Strong communication skills, both oral and written, for interacting with stakeholders and preparing reports.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS
The work environment and exposures described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the primary responsibilities of this job. Work will be conducted indoor and outdoor and may be exposed to fluctuations in temperature while in and around Nisqually Indian Tribe. You may be exposed to all types of weather to include but not limited to summer heat, winter cold, humidity, rain, snow, wind, and any other weather conditions experienced at the property. May be exposed to normal conditions related to the position i.e., noise from vehicles, machines, tools, customers, employees, dust, pollen, odors, wildlife etc.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands; handle; feel; or grip objects, stretch and/or reach with hands and arms; stoop; crouch or work in cramped or awkward positions; repetitive motions; operate hand tools (may include operating heavy machinery), office machinery and motor vehicles. This person may regularly lift and/or move up to 55 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust to focus. Specific work assignments may change without notice.