Our mission is to conserve the natural environment, support agriculture and connect people to nature by protecting open spaces, natural areas, and working farms and ranches for future generations. We have protected 28,000 acres of natural and agricultural lands in Santa Clara County. Our agency operates a network of open space lands to manage and conserve natural resources and provide compatible opportunities for hiking, biking, and equestrian uses, with a focus on increasing equity of access to the outdoors for all our constituents.

We know our continued success depends on our employees and the work they do. We are committed to providing a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages growth and development; and acknowledges individual and team achievements.

The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority seeks four Seasonal Open Space Aides. As part of the Field Operations department, these positions will provide essential services in ensuring the public can safely access the Authority’s preserves.

The Ideal Candidate

You are looking to begin your career in open space and land conservation by gaining hands on experience while working for a mission driven agency. The first aspect of the responsibilities is the parking lot duty station, to be stationed in the preserve engaging members of the public by communicating the mission, vision and goals of the Authority, answering basic questions and interacting with the visitors and neighbors in a friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful manner. The second aspect is the trail patrol duty station, to hike preserve trails and engage with visitors and monitor trails for hazards or maintenance items.

The Seasonal Open Space Aides will perform a daily checklist of preserve opening or closing duties, in addition to completing maintenance tasks, and providing assistance to Open Space Technicians on special projects. Hands on training will be provided in the safe and proper use of hand tools, small power tools, principles of open space maintenance and visitor services.

The Seasonal Open Space Aides engage members of the public by communicating the mission, vision and goals of the Authority, answering basic questions and interacting with the visitors and neighbors in a friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful manner. 

The Open Space Authority provides a fun and challenging position, a team of highly committed individuals, and a rewarding working environment. Persons in this position may be required to work alone, work early mornings and nights, in the dark and all weekends. This position requires the willingness and ability to work outdoors in rugged terrain, walk over rough, hilly, uneven or unpaved ground and with exposure to natural elements. We offer an excellent opportunity to make a difference and work with a mission driven workforce.

The complete position classification can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/3HiQMbh

The ideal candidate will possess the skills, education, and experience needed to be successful in this position. For example:

·         Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade

·         Interest in building a career path in land management, parks, and conservation

·         Possession of a valid California Driver’s License and a clean driving record

·         Ability to work in situations that may include minimal light (e.g. sunset), weather extremes, hiking on and off trails

·         Ability to lift and carry materials and objects weighing up to 60 pounds

·         Bi-lingual in languages spoken in the Santa Clara Valley region is a plus

Compensation & Benefits

The salary for this full-time, non-exempt position is $27.94 hourly. Paid sick leave is also provided in accordance with California requirements. As seasonal positions, these positions are not eligible for other benefits.

Application and Selection

All application materials must be received prior to January 18, 2022, at 5:00 PM. To be considered for this opportunity, submit your application materials including cover letter and resume at the application link provided below. Resume should reflect years and months of employment.

The Open Space Authority strives to engage a workforce reflective of the community it serves. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation or physical disability. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.