Project Manager - Rivers and Trails

Background and Purpose
The Dan River Basin Association preserves and promotes the natural and cultural resources of the 3,300 square mile Dan River region through stewardship, recreation and education. DRBA envisions a region where residents and visitors enjoy a high quality of life and access for all to healthy waterways, natural areas, trails, greenways, and heritage sites, a bi-state network that contributes to a strong and vibrant regional economy.

DRBA’s Martinsville-Henry County Rivers and Trails program in Virginia is leveraging the economic potential of the region’s natural resources. With funding from the Harvest Foundation, DRBA and partners are planning, building and promoting a system of river access points, parks, and trails, part of Henry County’s Smith River Trails system. The program promotes learning opportunities, conservation and active lifestyles. The end result is an improved quality of life, a healthier community, and an attractive place in which to live and do business. The next phase involves: 1) working across borders to assess and prioritize needs while planning for regional impact, 2) engaging partners and stakeholders in leadership of local projects, and 3) building membership, cultivating major donors, and diversifying funding sources.

Position Summary
The Project Manager leads coordinates rivers, trails and heritage projects in Martinsville and Henry County while collaborating with regional and state-wide planning for positive economic impact. The project manager works with DRBA staff, economic development and local government officials, consultants, stakeholder groups and the public. For the right candidate, this position has the potential to expand to include a broad range of responsibilities and larger sphere of influence, to make a real difference across the region.

Duties

• Assess existing and planned portfolio of rivers and trails projects and related programs; identify gaps and assist in the prioritization of needs based on local and regional recreational, economic, and social impacts
• Coordinate long-term strategic planning and participate in regional, multi-jurisdictional planning initiatives
  Track and report on multiple projects and oversee related administrative duties
• Lead budget preparation, planning, and program evaluation tasks
• Collaborate and coordinate with other staff as needed on projects across the region
• Recruit and supervise interns and administrative staff; oversee contractors
• Develop and sustain positive working relationships with stakeholder groups, including economic development and tourism organizations
• Recruit and motivate volunteers and program participants
• Represent the Dan River Basin Association at public meetings
• Coordinate the development and implementation of environmental education and conservation activities
• Build local donor base; lead local membership development program; participate in other fundraising and proposal writing initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and five years of project management experience in natural resources, rivers and trails planning or related area; advanced degree a plus
• Knowledge of economic development, outdoor recreation and conservation
• Flexibility and ability to coordinate and report on multiple projects
• Interest in and enjoyment of outdoor river and trail recreation (hiking, cycling, paddling); familiarity with related facilities development and user issues
• Exceptional interpersonal, public speaking, writing and presentation skills
• Demonstrated leadership skills, enthusiasm and ability to inspire others
• High energy and resourceful self starter with ability to work independently
• Positive attitude and successful experience in working with people of all demographic groups
• Demonstrated team player, with commitment to the mission and values of the Dan River Basin Association
• Experience in Microsoft Office, internet and e-mail, Excel, Access and related programs; desktop publishing programs a plus
• Valid driver’s license, ability to travel and work evenings and weekends as needed
• Physical demands include ability to lift and move objects of moderate weight and to participate in field research, which may include hiking and paddling canoes or kayaks in inaccessible areas.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Benefits include stipend for health insurance, 20 personal days, 12 holidays, flexible schedule, and compensatory time.