Operation Manager

Description

The Three Rivers Chapter of Trout Unlimited (TU), based in King County, Washington, is seeking a part-time Operations Manager (20 hours per week) to lead and support community engagement activities that promote the conservation and preservation of our local watersheds. This pivotal role will enhance the chapter’s ability to deliver impactful engagement events and community science initiatives by coordinating volunteers, strengthening partnerships, and expanding the chapter's reach.

The Three Rivers Chapter operates a unique model in collaboration with TU National staff to empower local volunteers to protect iconic species, such as Lake Sammamish Kokanee Salmon, and conserve their supporting ecosystems. The chapter is an all-volunteer organization, our capacity to sustain this work is limited. The Operations Manager will act as a "force multiplier" by organizing existing resources, recruiting new volunteers, members, and donors, and broadening our conservation community to create meaningful, lasting impacts.

We are seeking a creative, self-directed, and solutions-oriented individual with a passion for coldwater fisheries conservation. The ideal candidate will have experience in developing, implementing, and managing effective engagement strategies, responding to immediate opportunities and challenges while driving long-term goals. The work involves both digital and in-person components and often requires leveraging relationships with partners and chapter members to maximize outreach impact.

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. At TU, we actively seek candidates for this position who have been most impacted by degraded rivers and streams. We are committed to encouraging all people to participate in our work to care for trout and salmon and clean our shared waters. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Fundraising and Sponsorships: Collaborate with the board to identify and execute funding opportunities, secure event sponsorships, and generate resources to support this position and the chapter’s programs and initiatives.

• Community Engagement Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to expand the chapter’s reach across watersheds from Seattle to the Cascades and from King County to Skagit County.

• Volunteer Recruitment and Development: Build and maintain a network of diverse, skilled volunteers to support chapter committees and leadership roles.

• Event Planning and Execution: Plan, coordinate, and execute chapter meetings, community science initiatives, and outreach events. Expand or replicate successful activities such as clean-ups, tree plantings, fishing days, and corporate volunteer events.

• Digital Communication: Enhance and grow the chapter’s digital presence to engage new audiences, track participation, and identify supporters for future engagement.

• Community Presentations: Represent the chapter at community events and organizations (e.g., Kiwanis, Lions, garden clubs, chambers of commerce, private fishing or hunting clubs) to inspire support and participation.

Note: This list is not exhaustive, and additional duties may arise. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.

• Minimum of three years in community outreach, volunteer management, organizational development, or similar roles.

• Proven ability to develop and execute engagement strategies, with experience in digital and in-person outreach.

• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.

• Outstanding communication skills, including writing and public speaking.

• Strong interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and the ability to engage diverse audiences.

• Familiarity with conservation, youth, fishing, veterans, or similar organizations is highly desirable.

• Fundraising experience, including securing grants and sponsorships, is a plus.

• Resides in or near the chapter's geographic area of interest (preferred).

Additional Details

• Location: Issaquah, Washington.

• Schedule: Flexible but requires availability for evening and weekend events.

• Compensation: $25-$30 per hour, based on qualifications, with potential for increases and full-time employment based on   performance and funding.

• This position is hired by TU National and managed locally by TU’s Lake Washington Basin Program Manager, located in Issaquah, Washington. While the primary focus will be on the Three Rivers Chapter, occasional support for TU staff programs may be required due to the interconnected nature of their missions.

• This is a non-supervisory role with room for growth as needs and funding allows.

• Membership in Trout Unlimited is not required but encouraged.

Salary : $25 - $30