Watershed Center Aide/Interpretive Naturalist

Paid Internship

San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) Natural Resources and Lands Management Division, Alameda Creek Watershed Center

About the Natural Resources and Lands Management Division

The Natural Resources and Lands Management (NRLM) Division within the Water Enterprise of the SFPUC is responsible for the management of approximately 61,000 acres of Bay Area watershed lands under SFPUC ownership as well as 150 miles of utility right-of-way. NRLM Division is responsible for managing, protecting, restoring, and monitoring the ecological resources on these lands and environmental compliance for the operations and maintenance of the Hetch Hetchy Regional Water System which serves 2.7 million customers. We are committed to responsible natural resources management that protects and restores viable populations of native species and maintains the integrity of the ecosystems that support them for current and future generations. We strive to become a leader in science-based and collaborative environmental stewardship to continue providing high-quality and reliable water supplies to our customers. The NRLM Division of the Water Enterprise of SFPUC currently has an opening for a 9922 Public Service Aide, “Watershed Center Aide.” This position will evolve based on the needs of our newly constructed and soon to open Alameda Creek Watershed Center.

About the Alameda Creek Watershed Center

The Alameda Creek Watershed Center (ACWC) is a new interpretive center in the Alameda Creek watershed by the town of Sunol. The ACWC showcases the natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational resources of the Alameda Creek watershed via interpretive exhibit halls, a 2.5acre Watershed Discovery Garden that features the plant communities of the watershed, and the historic Sunol Water Temple. The ACWC also offers a window into the current and historic culture of the local Muwekma Ohlone Tribe.

Work Location: 505 Paloma Way, Sunol, CA

Description of Duties and Learning Objectives

Initially, the selected candidate will assist in the development of school programs for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders, weekend interpretive programs, general tours, and our volunteer program. Once the Center opens, we’ll begin implementing those programs and supporting visitors services, such as greeting, registration, and answering questions. The candidate chosen is supervised by the Alameda Creek Watershed Center staff as part of a team developing and piloting new programming as well as helping to set up administrative structures including purchasing supplies and other day-to-day operational duties.

• Assist with developing and delivering new 3rd -5th grade school programs, exhibit tours, programs and special events for the public
• Staff the Center’s front desk, assisting visitors and answering phones
• Learn the online registration system used to manage contacts, register for programs, schedule room use, manage volunteers, record program stats, and generate reports
• Assist with volunteer trainings and supervision and related activities
• Prepare materials for school programs, public programs & events
• Maintain inventory of program materials, supplies, & equipment
• Assist with the care of trout and the maintenance of the trout stream profile aquarium
• Occasional work in the Native Plant Nursery and Watershed Discovery Garden.
• Develop a working knowledge of local cultural and natural history, and interpretive program principles.
• Work collaboratively with a team of educators and volunteers

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of at least two years of college from an accredited college
• Experience with outdoor education and/or interpretation for school age children or the public
• Knowledge of natural sciences, environmental education, and basic interpretive/teaching techniques

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of environmental principles and issues
• An academic background in the sciences, education, environmental studies, or cultural studies.
• Strong organizational and time management skills; responsible, motivated, and able to work independently and in a team
• Bilingual fluency in language predominately spoken in the Bay Area.
• Word processing, spreadsheet, PowerPoint development, database, and internet proficiency
• Interest in learning more about equity, inclusion and diversity concepts and applying them to interpretive programs
• Certification or ability to become certified in CPR and basic first aid

Terms:

• Be able to work on Saturdays and occasional evenings
• Length of position: up to three years
• Schedule: Up to 20 hours per week. Schedule fluctuates based on programmatic and planning needs

Physical and work requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in hot, cold, and/or wet conditions.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time while assisting with field trip programs
• Ability to work in areas with wildlife and poison oak.
• Ability to lift 30 pounds.