Middle Colorado River Project Manager

Job Type Full-time Description

  

Trout Unlimited (TU) seeks to hire a self-motivated and highly capable person to identify, plan, and implement projects to benefit aquatic resources and native and wild fish populations in the Colorado River and its tributaries in Colorado, with a focus on Summit, Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties. The position will be located in or near Glenwood Springs, Colorado.  

Projects may include removal of fish barriers, irrigation infrastructure improvements, water rights transactions, water conservation efforts, stream restoration, reclamation of abandoned mines, and other cooperative measures that protect or restore fish habitat. 

The project manager will work cooperatively with partners of diverse backgrounds and interests. The project manager will be expected to secure grants and raise funds to cover project costs. Duties will also include active and effective participation in stakeholder and collaborative groups to advocate for and advance positive outcomes for coldwater fisheries. 

Competitive candidates for this position will need to demonstrate strong project management skills and an understanding of river restoration, water rights, hydrology, ecology, working agriculture, and partnerships. This position involves frequent collaboration with agricultural water users on projects that benefit stream health and agricultural operations, and the ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with agricultural producers. The position involves working cooperatively with water managers, state and federal land managers, and other stakeholders.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop relationships with water users, the agricultural community, and local, state, and federal agency staff. 
• Work closely with partners to implement projects that benefit aquatic resources and fish populations.
• Promote and implement farming and ranching practices that enrich soils, enhance biodiversity, restore watershed health, and improve overall ecosystem function.
• Support existing partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Blue River Watershed Group, local Trout Unlimited chapters, and other key partners. 
• Develop and manage contracts with engineering consultants and contractors to design and construct restoration projects.
• Raise public and private funds to design and construct projects, often working in close coordination with TU colleagues, including development officers.  
• Write grant proposals to local, state, and federal agencies, as well as foundations.
• Manage complex budgets with multiple funding sources. 
• Manage grant reporting requirements and coordinate internal reporting processes with other TU staff. 
• Monitor project results, including water quality changes and habitat use.
• Represent TU staff on local committees or stakeholder groups.
• Attend TU chapter and council functions.

This is not an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities.

Requirements

  

• Minimum of an undergraduate degree in biology, ecology, hydrology, engineering, or a related field. Graduate degree preferred. 
• Four years of relevant experience in watershed restoration, fisheries biology, environmental policy, or similar field.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Professional experience working with landowners, resource managers, and other interested parties in a collaborative setting.
• Familiarity with regenerative agriculture principles and practices and ability to implement these strategies in coordination with partners. 
• Experience with grant writing and managing complex budgets.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Proficient in ArcGIS.
• Ability to problem-solve and think creatively to advance TU’s conservation mission.
• Strong time-management and organizational skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability and willingness to travel. A valid driver’s license and vehicle are required. A 4x4 vehicle is beneficial, and staff are reimbursed for work-related mileage. 

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Staff and leadership at TU understand that life outside of work is important to personal health, and we strive to create a healthy and family-friendly atmosphere. This is a full-time position with a generous benefits package. The starting salary range is $62,000 to $80,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications. This position has secured funding for two years. With support from existing TU staff, the hired applicant will be responsible for funding portions of the role over the long-term through grants and programmatic partnerships.

HOW TO APPLY

Please provide a resume, cover letter, writing sample, and list of three references to Trout Unlimited via our online job application system. We will begin reviewing applications on May 20, 2026. The position will be open until filled.

Salary Description 62,000 to 80,000 annually