Job Description

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation has designated the Yadkin Riverkeeper (YRK) as the official nonprofit partner for the Yadkin River State Trail (YRST). This position is focused on stewarding and expanding the 164-mile Yadkin River State Trail blueway and supporting YRK’s outdoor recreation projects, paddles and programming in the Yadkin River watershed. The position is currently fully funded for one year, but opportunities are available to raise additional funds to continue the position into the future. Benefits include three weeks paid time off and a monthly health care stipend. 

Job Responsibilities

• Coordinate YRST activities with the NC Division of Parks and Recreation State Trails Program and represent YRK on the Great Trails State Coalition and State Trails Committee.
• Facilitate and assist local government and nonprofit partners in applying for state “Complete the Trail” grants for improving existing access areas and developing new access areas.File quarterly Complete the Trail progress reports with the Division.
• Coordinate with nonprofit paddle trail partners and other YRST stakeholders, including local government agencies and private outfitters to identify opportunities and develop projects to improve access and safety on the YRST. 
• Write and implement grants to support YRST programming and projects, including land acquisition proposals. 
• Develop and implement YRK paddle safety guidelines and policies. 
• Provide YRST related content for YRK website and YRK and YRST Facebook pages, including photographs, safety information and trail highlights.
• Respond to questions from users and the general public and distribute YRST maps and provide updates for online map.
• Help maintain YRK kayak trailer, boats, tools, supplies, equipment, etc.
• Support YRK and partners in routine maintenance of the YRST including:
  • River cleanups
  • Clearing debris jams and strainers
• Plan and lead educational and inspiring paddling events. 
• Install and update signage along the YRST including mile markers, bridge names, river access areas, campsites and hazards.
• Utilize GIS mapping and analysis to support YRST projects and proposals, including tracking sign locations.
• Inventory, assess, prioritize and provide technical support to YRST-related projects focused on outdoor recreation amenities like parks, trails, greenways, river access and other public lands along the YRST. 
• Provide pertinent information and data for comment periods, presentations and other outreach activities impacting the YRST.
• Equitably engage with marginalized communities to advance educational and public access opportunities to the YRST. 

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

The YRST Coordinator should have a minimum of two years of experience and: 

• College degree or work experience in a field related to the environment or outdoor recreation.
• A demonstrated commitment and passion for the protection of the environment and love of the outdoors. 
• Ability to organize and lead programs with partners, members, and the general public.
• Grant writing and project and contract management. 
• GIS mapping and analysis experience.
• Self-reliant, independent, good problem solver and results oriented.
• Ability to make decisions in a changing environment and anticipate future needs.
• Energetic, flexible, collaborative, and proactive. Team player.
• Demonstrated commitment to racial equity and inclusion.
• Experience with online communications tools and social media. 
• Paddling and outdoor recreation experience.
• Commitment to the mission and goals of the organization. 
• Knowledge of the Yadkin River and the issues impacting water quality a plus.

Candidates with relevant experience should submit their resume and a cover letter to YRK Riverkeeper/executive director, Edgar Miller at edgar@yadkinriverkeeper.org. The closing date for applying is February 10, 2024.

Yadkin Riverkeeper is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination with respect to the hiring or promotion of individuals, conditions of employment, disciplinary and discharge practices or any other aspect of employment on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or veteran status.

Salary Range – $35,000 – $45,000with monthly health care stipend. 

Yadkin Riverkeeper is a non-profit member organization that seeks to respect, protect, and improve the Yadkin Pee Dee River Basin through education, advocacy, and action.Yadkin Riverkeeper is funded by individuals and foundations who share its commitment to creating a clean and healthy river that sustains life and is cherished by its people.Yadkin Riverkeeper is a member of Waterkeepers Carolina and is also a licensed member of the Waterkeeper Alliance, which connects and supports local Waterkeeper programs to provide a united voice and to champion clean water issues around the world. www.yadkinriverkeeper.org. 

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