Natural Resources Manager bei City of Germantown, TN

About the Department

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:

Under general direction, manage the Natural Resources Division by developing, implementing, and coordinating programs for the preservation and management of natural resources within one or more parks to include directing personnel, operations, and maintenance of assigned natural areas and natural resources.  

ORGANIZATIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY:

City of Germantown public servants exist, first and foremost, to protect and enhance the quality of life of those we serve; every position on the Germantown team has a shared responsibility and accountability to fulfill this purpose. Through the constant alignment of individual actions, behaviors and performance with our organization’s values system, Germantown public servants demonstrate a steadfast commitment to our greater mission of Excellence. Every day. As a mission-driven, values-centered organization, the expectation for City leaders is to model ‘The Germantown Way’ at all times for those they influence and interact with daily.

Position Duties

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Manages the division’s resources such as personnel, operations and budget. This includes hiring, training, administering discipline according to established guidelines, conducting performance evaluations, and recommending terminations. 
2. Implements and executes the Natural Resource Management Plan, City Tree Plan, and Parks and Recreation Business Plan. 
3. Designs and executes programs for managing natural resources like plants, wildlife, and ecosystems.
4. Implements strategies and programs to protect and restore natural resources from degradation, pollution, and other threats.
5. Manages natural resource special projects, including defining scope and objectives, monitoring progress, allocating resources, problem-solving, and evaluating quality standards.
6. Collaborates with City departments, contractors, commissions, and external agencies on natural resource initiatives.
7. Performs administrative tasks such as the procuring supplies and materials, managing weekly payroll, processing accident reports, submitting budget requests, conducting technical reviews of landscaping plans, and preparing bid specifications.
8. Enforces safety protocols, trains staff on proper procedures and maintains compliance with relevant health and safety regulations. This includes addressing potential hazards, coordinating inspections and ensuring proper storage and use of chemicals and equipment.
9. Works in cooperation with other departments to ensure that park rules set by the Parks and Recreation Commission are being enforced and that protection and conservation are practiced appropriately. Plan and coordinate a comprehensive park safety and security program to include the greenway system and special events held in park locations.
10. Leads all activities related to data collection and natural resources inventory management including the parks and open space urban forestry GIS tree inventory system. Records and reports natural resources performance measures and adjusts work plans as necessary to meet targets. 
11. Develops, implements, monitors, and documents natural resource management (NRM) related policies, strategies, regulations and practices.
12. Develops and implements an Urban Forestry maintenance program plan focused on woodland, wetland, and public space resources, to include native and invasive plant control that are in line with CAPRA standards.  
13. Prepares monthly and annual progress reports on habitat restoration, invasive species mitigation efforts, hazard tree removals, and various natural resource management projects. 
14. Oversees the development and implementation of interpretive programs, outdoor recreational skills programs, and conservation initiatives. 
15. Organizes and coordinates conservation projects in ways that directly impact conservation stewardship and support Germantown’s Natural Resource Management Plan.
16. Performs maintenance related tasks and work on special outdoor projects such as trail maintenance, outdoor classrooms, signage, tree planting, water quality, native plant planting, erosion control, interpretive kiosks, special interpretive exhibits, etc. 

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. May assist with other department activities or City sponsored events not under direct responsibility.
2. Performs other related tasks as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of general principles and practices of natural resource management, including restoration planning, implementation and park operations
• Knowledge of interpretive and environmental programming appropriate for planning programs for the public
• Knowledge of and/or the ability to use a GIS/GPS tree management software or comparable forestry management software
• Thorough knowledge of wildlife management practices as set by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
• Demonstrated knowledge of plants native to west Tennessee
• Ability to assist with the preparation of resource management plans, policies, procedures and guidelines, conduct baseline environmental surveys, and monitor resource conditions.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply sound supervisory principles and practices including planning, delegating and controlling the work of subordinates
• Knowledge of policies and procedures of the Parks and Recreation Department and a clear understanding of the City’s Natural Resource Management Plan
• Ability to enforce rules, regulations and City ordinances pertaining to municipal parks
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Ability to prepare clear and comprehensive administrative reports, program presentations and policies.
• Ability to act quickly and appropriately in emergency situations including the ability to perform CPR and provide advanced first aid care
• Ability to organize, plan and teach instructional classes in natural resources, and related topics. 
• Ability to handle sensitive or stressful situations with tact and diplomacy
• Ability to plan, develop and conduct nature programs to diverse audiences in varied settings (camps, special events, school groups, general public)
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Ability to care for and handle animals used in association with program activities
• Ability to operate patrol vehicle, including jeeps and bicycles
• Physical ability to perform essential job duties

Other Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree in Natural Science, Ecology, Botany, Hydrology or related field with emphasis in urban forestry, wildlife management, or environmental studies and five (5) years experience in natural resources with at least three (3) years of supervisory experience; or any combination of education, training, and experience providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform essential job functions. The Natural Resources Manager is required to obtain City Arborist certification within 1 year of employment, starting from the date of hire. Interpretive program supervision and planning experience preferred. 

WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties are performed both outdoors and in an indoor office environment. Work schedule will include irregular hours including weekends and holidays. Employee will be exposed to a variety of climatic conditions and geographical terrain, and insects and animals used in program activities. Performance of duties requires standing and walking on level, uneven and slippery surfaces; bodily movement adequate to drive a vehicle, ride a bicycle, climb stoop, kneel and crouch; hear and talk with the ability to communicate in person by telephone and by radio; and have the physical capacity to lift and carry 50 pounds.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must possess valid driver’s license; a Certificate in CPR and First Responder First Aid or ability to obtain. Additional Desirable certifications/experience: GIS/GPS Technology, Wildlife rehabilitation/handling, landscaping with native plants, State of Tennessee pesticide applicators license for ornamentals and invasive plants.