Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world increasingly focused on environmental sustainability, the importance of coastal habitat restoration specialists has never been greater.

As climate change progresses, and the need for the preservation of our coastal ecosystems becomes more critical, the demand for skilled individuals who can rebuild, protect, and maintain these habitats is escalating.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a coastal habitat restoration specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager constructing the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuances of coastal habitat restoration,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a flexible coastal habitat restoration specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists work to restore and maintain the health of coastal habitats, such as marshes, beaches, and dunes, which are critical for various species and human communities.

They use their expertise in ecology, biology, and environmental science to plan and implement restoration projects.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the health and status of coastal ecosystems, identifying areas that require restoration
• Developing and implementing restoration plans for degraded coastal habitats, including replanting vegetation, regrading shorelines, and removing invasive species
• Monitoring and documenting the progress of restoration projects, making adjustments as necessary
• Conducting research to understand the effects of human activities and climate change on coastal habitats
• Collaborating with various stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental groups, and local communities, to ensure the success of restoration projects
• Applying for grants and other sources of funding for restoration projects
• Educating the public and policymakers about the importance of coastal habitats and the need for restoration
• Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and guidelines in all restoration activities

 

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist to join our environmental team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, developing, and implementing habitat restoration projects along the coast.

The specialist should have a strong understanding of coastal ecosystems, be familiar with the strategies for restoring damaged habitats, and be able to conduct surveys and assessments to monitor project progress and effectiveness.

The ultimate goal of the Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist is to restore and protect coastal ecosystems, ensuring the sustainability and biodiversity of our coastal habitats.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys to assess the condition of coastal habitats and identify areas for restoration
• Develop and implement comprehensive restoration plans, including planting, erosion control, and invasive species management
• Monitor and evaluate the progress and effectiveness of restoration projects
• Prepare reports and documentation detailing project objectives, activities, and outcomes
• Coordinate with other environmental specialists, conservationists, and stakeholders for project planning and implementation
• Advise on best practices in coastal habitat restoration and conservation
• Secure necessary permits and ensure all activities comply with environmental regulations and laws
• Organize community outreach programs to encourage local participation in habitat restoration efforts

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist or similar role
• Proficiency in GIS and other related software
• Strong knowledge of coastal ecosystems and habitat restoration techniques
• Ability to conduct field surveys and assessments
• Familiarity with environmental laws and regulations
• Excellent communication and project management skills
• BS degree in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist
• Work Environment: This role requires extensive fieldwork in various coastal locations. Occasional office work for planning and report writing.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Environmental Program Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Do?

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists typically work for environmental organizations, government agencies, or private consulting firms.

They can also work as independent contractors or researchers.

They work closely with other environmental scientists, marine biologists, and oceanographers to assess, monitor, and restore various coastal habitats such as wetlands, mangroves, and coral reefs.

Their job is to design and implement habitat restoration projects with the aim of preserving biodiversity, protecting endangered species, and enhancing ecosystem services.

This often involves restoring areas affected by pollution, climate change, or other anthropogenic disturbances.

They may also be responsible for conducting field surveys and research to monitor the progress of restoration efforts, as well as collecting and analyzing data to assess the health and function of coastal habitats.

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists often collaborate with local communities, policy makers, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable use of coastal resources.

They also play a key role in environmental education and outreach, spreading awareness about the importance of coastal conservation and restoration.

They use various tools and technologies in their work, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping and modeling, remote sensing for habitat monitoring, and various field equipment for sample collection and onsite assessments.

In addition, they may be involved in grant writing and fundraising to support restoration projects, and they often contribute to scientific reports and publications to share their findings and inform best practices in the field of coastal habitat restoration.

 

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist should have the following skills and qualifications to successfully fulfill this role:

• Advanced knowledge in marine biology, environmental science, or related fields to understand and protect the coastal habitat.
• Field experience in habitat restoration and conservation techniques to effectively restore and maintain coastal habitats.
• Technical skills to manage and operate specialized tools and equipment used in coastal habitat restoration projects.
• Research and analytical skills to assess the impact of various factors on the coastal habitat and to develop appropriate restoration strategies.
• Project management skills to plan, organize, and oversee habitat restoration projects.
• Communication skills to effectively discuss projects with various stakeholders, including governmental agencies, local communities, and scientific peers.
• Problem-solving skills to address and overcome challenges that may arise in the restoration of coastal habitats.
• Physical endurance to work in field conditions, often in inclement weather and challenging terrains.
• Knowledge of environmental laws and regulations to ensure that restoration activities comply with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

 

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Experience Requirements

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, or a related field, where they gain foundational knowledge about ecosystems and environmental management.

Many professionals in this role will also have completed internships or cooperative education programs during their studies, providing them with hands-on experience in coastal habitat restoration projects.

A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related field may be required for more advanced positions.

The entry-level candidates might have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in environmental consulting firms, governmental agencies, or non-profit organizations focused on coastal ecosystems.

Professionals with more than 3 years of experience usually have developed their skills in habitat assessment, restoration planning, project implementation, and monitoring, often through work in roles such as Environmental Scientist or Ecologist.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have leadership experience and can lead restoration projects, oversee a team of specialists, or hold managerial positions in environmental conservation organizations.

They may also have extensive experience with securing funding, grant writing, and collaborating with regulatory agencies and stakeholders.

Certifications such as the Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) or Certified Ecologist (CE) can enhance a specialist’s credentials and demonstrate their practical experience and competence in the field.

 

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, marine biology, ecology, or a related field.

The coursework for these programs generally includes subjects like aquatic biology, environmental chemistry, aquatic ecology, and geology, which equip the students with a comprehensive understanding of coastal habitats.

Many roles, especially those in research or project management, may require specialists to have a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in a specific field such as marine ecology or environmental management.

Specialists might also need to be certified in ecological restoration by a recognized organization like the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER).

This certification showcases the individual’s proficiency in restoring and managing coastal habitats.

Practical experience, either through internships, fieldwork, or volunteering, is highly beneficial and often required by employers as this work requires a hands-on approach.

Additional skills beneficial to this role include a strong understanding of geographic information system (GIS) technology, project management experience, and skills in data analysis and report writing.

Continuing education is crucial in this field to stay updated with the latest restoration techniques, conservation policies, and environmental regulations.

 

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Salary Expectations

A Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $60,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience in the field, level of education, specific skills, and geographical location.

 

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist need?

Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists need a broad understanding of marine science, ecology, and environmental conservation.

They also need technical skills to collect, analyze, and interpret data.

Excellent communication and teamwork skills are critical for collaborating with various stakeholders.

Project management skills are beneficial for planning and executing restoration projects.

 

Do Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists have a degree in environmental science, marine biology, ecology, or a related field.

This coursework prepares them for the technical and scientific aspects of the job.

Some roles may require advanced degrees or certifications, especially for leadership positions or specialized tasks.

 

What should you look for in a Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist resume?

A Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist’s resume should demonstrate a strong background in marine science or a related field.

Look for experience in environmental conservation, coastal habitat restoration, or similar roles.

They should also have experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

Project management experience, especially related to environmental or conservation projects, is a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist?

A good Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist is passionate about marine conservation and has a deep understanding of coastal ecosystems.

They are problem-solvers who can analyze data and make informed decisions about habitat restoration.

Good communication skills are critical for coordinating with team members and stakeholders.

They should also be physically fit to handle fieldwork in various weather conditions.

 

Is it challenging to hire Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists?

Hiring Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialists can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

The ideal candidate should have a mix of scientific knowledge, field experience, and project management skills.

However, organizations that offer meaningful work in environmental conservation and competitive compensation tend to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the extraordinary world of being a Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about restoring the coastline.

It’s about shaping our future environment, one restored habitat at a time.

With our comprehensive Coastal Habitat Restoration Specialist job description template and authentic examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step for creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each restored habitat contributes to the larger ecosystem.

Let’s shape the future of our environment. Together.

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