Restoration Projects Manager

  • Non-profit
  • Morro Bay, CA
  • December 6, 2026

Morro Bay National Estuary Program

The Estuary Program is seeking a full-time Restoration Projects Manager to oversee planning and implementation of habitat restoration projects in the Morro Bay watershed to improve water quality, enhance habitats, and protect the estuarine environment. This position will coordinate with partners, collect and manage environmental data, and communicate findings to the public and partners. This position reports to the Restoration Program Director.

Essential Duties:

Restoration Planning & Coordination

  • Implement water quality, habitat improvement, and public access projects including floodplain restoration, riparian plantings, fish passage, stormwater management, water conservation, erosion control, invasive plant removal, trails, etc.
  • Ensure projects are technically sound, environmentally sustainable, and legally viable.
  • Coordinate with diverse partners to develop, fund, and implement collaborative projects.

Field Monitoring & Implementation

  • Support field implementation of restoration projects, including volunteer coordination.
  • Monitor environmental improvements from conservation and restoration projects, including eelgrass, oysters, macroalgae, tidal marsh habitats, fisheries, plant survival, hydrology, etc.

Project Management

  • Oversee project implementation including budgeting, contracting, permitting, reporting, and monitoring.
  • Identify, secure, and manage grant funding for restoration and planning projects.
  • Collaborate with partners and represent Estuary Program at meetings and on advisory committees.

Interpret & Share Results

  • Utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map and track projects, including StoryMap development.
  • Utilize Excel spreadsheets and tools such as R for data analysis.
  • Help develop grant applications, project reporting, and organizational reporting.
  • Develop and present content such as blogs, presentations, and field trips.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BA/BS and relevant work experience in watershed science, natural resources management, marine science, environmental science, biology, etc.
  • 2 to 4 years of experience in restoration field, including fieldwork.
  • 1 to 2 years of project management experience, including budgets, contracts, and general financial administration.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences. Technical writing sample required.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in teams.
  • Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented, and ability to manage numerous projects and deadlines.
  • Proficiency in basic office programs (Microsoft Office 365, Adobe) and GIS.
  • Ability to hike and carry 20 to 50 pounds of gear in inclement weather over rough terrain.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in relevant field.
  • Experience managing and applying for grants.
  • Experience with habitat restoration techniques and design.
  • Experience with freshwater and/or marine related fieldwork.
  • Experience supervising and coordinating teams, including volunteers.
  • Experience with small nonprofit organizations.

Pay Rate: $34 to $36 per hour, depending on experience

Tagged as: Conservation

To apply for this job please visit www.mbnep.org.