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River Project Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a project-focused company, we believe in the power of demonstrating environmental improvement through large-scale river restoration and empowering others through partnership and collaboration.

Assistant Field Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

We've restored more habitat along impaired California rivers than anyone else in the western U.S., having led hundreds of projects across nearly 20,000 acres throughout California. Our efforts result ...

Assistant Field Manager

Colusa, CA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

We've restored more habitat along impaired California rivers than anyone else in the western U.S., having led hundreds of projects across nearly 20,000 acres throughout California. Our efforts result ...

Assistant Field Manager

Chico, CA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

We've restored more habitat along impaired California rivers than anyone else in the western U.S., having led hundreds of projects across nearly 20,000 acres throughout California. Our efforts result ...

Senior Project Manager

Truckee, CA · On-site

$82K - $95K/yr

We want to make sure healthy rivers and fisheries are available for all people to use and enjoy ... Our program takes projects through the full life cycle from identification, prioritization and ...

Senior Project Manager

Truckee, CA · On-site

$82K - $95K/yr

We want to make sure healthy rivers and fisheries are available for all people to use and enjoy ... Our program takes projects through the full life cycle from identification, prioritization and ...

As a project-focused company, we believe in the power of demonstrating environmental improvement through large-scale river restoration and empowering others through partnership and collaboration.

As a project-focused company, we believe in the power of demonstrating environmental improvement through large-scale river restoration and empowering others through partnership and collaboration.

Showing results 21-40

River Project information

What is a river project?

A River Project refers to any organized initiative focused on the management, restoration, conservation, or development of river systems and their surrounding environments. These projects can involve activities such as improving water quality, restoring habitats, controlling floods, or developing recreational spaces along rivers. River Projects often bring together government agencies, environmental organizations, engineers, and local communities to achieve sustainable outcomes. The goal is typically to balance ecological health, community needs, and economic considerations along the river.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a river project manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a River Project Manager, you need expertise in environmental science, hydrology, project management, and typically a degree in environmental engineering or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, environmental impact assessment tools, and regulatory compliance systems is important. Strong leadership, effective communication, and stakeholder engagement skills help drive collaboration and successful project outcomes. These skills ensure projects meet ecological, safety, and regulatory standards while balancing the interests of diverse communities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on river projects, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals involved in river projects often contend with challenges such as fluctuating water levels, environmental regulations, and stakeholder coordination. Managing ecological impacts while meeting project goals requires thorough planning and adaptive strategies. Effective communication with local communities, regulatory agencies, and interdisciplinary teams is key to overcoming obstacles and ensuring successful project outcomes. Additionally, staying updated on best practices in river engineering and environmental management helps address unforeseen issues and supports long-term project sustainability.

What is the difference between River Project vs River Engineer?

AspectRiver ProjectRiver Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically project-specific certifications, environmental or civil engineering backgroundEngineering degree, professional engineering license often preferred
Work EnvironmentField sites, project management offices, environmental agenciesDesign offices, field sites, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, construction firms, NGOsEngineering consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on project scope and managementFocuses on technical engineering aspects

While both roles involve working with river-related projects, a River Project typically refers to managing specific projects involving river conservation, restoration, or construction. A River Engineer, on the other hand, is a technical professional responsible for designing and implementing engineering solutions related to rivers. The roles often overlap, but the project role emphasizes management and coordination, whereas the engineering role emphasizes technical design and analysis.

What cities in California are hiring for River Project jobs?

Cities in California with the most River Project job openings:

Infographic showing various River Project job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Description
River Partners' helps local communities reconnect and revitalize floodplains and river landscapes across the state of California. We are a private, non-profit organization with offices in Chico, Sacramento, Turlock, and San Diego. As a project-focused company, we believe in the power of demonstrating environmental improvement through large-scale river restoration and empowering others through partnership and collaboration.
Job Description
Position Description:
River Partners' Turlock office is looking for a qualified Restoration Ecologist to help us on our habitat restoration projects on the San Joaquin River. The Restoration Ecologist works with River Partners' biology, field implementation, and development teams to identify, develop and execute riparian habitat restoration projects. Here are some of the essential functions and responsibilities of this position:
• Managing complex large-scale restoration projects
• Developing and building good rapport with external partners
• Writing quality plans, reports, and articles
• Managing multi-million-dollar budgets for restoration, mitigation and consulting projects
• Assisting in the development of new restoration projects
• Providing recommendation for problematic soil conditions on existing projects
• Evaluating soil conditions for new projects to assist in project planning
• Managing the Enterprise geographic information system (GIS)
• Proactively communicating with team members to improve habitat restoration and implementation techniques
• Securing permits from local, state and federal agencies
• Conducting vegetation and biological monitoring and studies
• Training and supervising entry-level biologists and interns
• Meeting multiple and competing deadlines and providing outstanding customer relations
• Developing and delivering presentations to the scientific community, government agencies and the public
• Attending public events, fairs and meetings to promote the organization and its mission
• Working independently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• May involve travel and/or long hours and weekends in a variety of field conditions.
• Other duties as assigned.
Essential Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
• Possess the enthusiasm and drive to assist River Partners in fulfilling its mission
• Enjoy working with diverse people and organizations to get things done
• Creatively solve problems and delight in learning new skills
• Effectively communicate complicated soil science findings orally and in writing
• Possess knowledge of and experience with basic irrigation techniques and a knowledge of soil chemistry, physics and plant science
• Possess advanced knowledge of California native plants, riparian ecology, and river hydrology
• Proven ability to work effectively with a team and independently
• Possess an understanding of statistics, experimental design and data collection
• Experience collecting, organizing, and analyzing field data
• Demonstrate good organizational skills, ability to work under multiple deadlines, and flexibility to handle changing priorities
• Be able to remain dedicated and focused on multiple tasks
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and other programs
Qualifications
Qualifications:
• M.S or equivalent work experience in ecology, plant biology, soil science, agriculture or natural resource science or related science and
• Three to five years of appropriate work experience
• Successful candidates must possess a valid driver's license with no restrictions
Additional Information
To apply email your resume, cover letter and 3 references to:
Jobs AT riverpartners.org
Or send an application via mail to:
River Partners
Attn: Turlock Ecologist
580 Vallombrosa Ave
Chico CA 95926
Please no calls on this position.
Videos To Watch
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