The Long-Range Planning Program is responsible for conducting major planning studies; policy research and development; and incorporating best available science and best management practices into BCDC’s plans.
Our recent accomplishments include amending the Bay Plan to improve the permitting process for habitat restoration projects and amending the Bay Plan to include findings and policies regarding environmental justice and social equity. Ongoing projects include 1) an amendment to Bay Plan mitigation policies and 2) a stakeholder-driven update to the Suisun Marsh Protection Plan; and 3) updates to the San Francisco Waterfront Special Area Plan, in collaboration with the Port of San Francisco and Exploratorium.
Under general direction of the Long-Range Planning Manager, the Environmental Scientist independently perform complex scientific office and field work including environmental analysis, policy analysis, research and studies involving resource protection and ecosystem management; habitat restoration; sea level rise adaptation of shoreline development and natural areas; Bay fill and dredging; environmental justice and social equity; consultative advice to BCDC Commissions and other governmental entities regarding use of the Bay and Suisun Marsh.
The Environmental Scientist, with considerable independence, will manage scientific studies of natural resource policy planning process, including techniques and methodologies by conducting research and case studies, interviewing stakeholders, and holding public workshops to integrate community perspectives; analyze policy options, including assessing the environmental justice and social equity implications; develop policy recommendations; and write background and staff reports for plan amendments. Planning topics may include: updating Special Area Plans for specific areas along the shoreline; updating the Suisun Marsh Protection Plan; balancing redevelopment, historic preservation, adaptation to rising sea level, public trust consistency and public access along the San Francisco waterfront; adaptive management of public access in light of rising sea level; allowing Bay fill for multi-benefit flood protection; and/or updating policies regarding water-related recreation and transportation, such as marinas and ferries. This work involves leading and facilitating open, transparent policy amendments with stakeholders and the public.
Duties will include but will not be limited to:
- Apply scientific methods to identify, analyze and find solutions for problems in areas of natural resource management, climate adaptation planning, and land use policy; evaluate data to study and draft policies to address emerging problems related to coastal and resource management issues.
- Prepare written reports to make recommendations for action on amendments to the Commission's laws, policies and regulations, and provide oral presentations to the Commission, public interest groups, and other local, state and federal agencies.
- Facilitate collaborative stakeholder processes to integrate multiple interests into recommendations via interviews, presentations, public workshops, community engagement, and interagency coordination.
- Review local, state and federal plans or programs and environmental impact reports for projects affecting the Bay and prepare comments regarding compliance with the Bay Plan.
- Act as lead planner or project manager, occasionally directing the work of other analysts, fellows, or interns.
This is a full-time, 12-month limited term position with a possibility of extension to 24 months or becoming permanent
Salary: $3,851.00 - $7,364.00 per month Final filing date: until filled
An office in downtown San Francisco. Telework may be available for this position in accordance with BCDC Telework Policy and Procedures.
