Director of Programs

Restore the Delta works in the areas of public education, research, program and policy development, and outreach so that all Californians recognize the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay Delta as part of California’s natural heritage, deserving of restoration. We interface with local, state and federal agencies to advance this vision.

Restore the Delta is seeking a strategic and mission-driven Director of Programs to oversee a five-program portfolio spanning flood and land restoration project development, water quality monitoring, sustainable agriculture technical assistance, carbon & energy project and policy analysis, and a STEM student internship program. This director-level role combines community-centered programming with financial leadership to ensure that our work is both impactful and sustainable.

Responsibilities generally include 1) direct supervision of program managers, including oversight, coaching, and professional development, with an emphasis on planning, implementing, and evaluating outreach strategies that build relationships with impacted communities, partner organizations, and other stakeholders; and 2) ensuring accurate financial tracking, compliance with funder requirements, and effective budget oversight for both general operations and restricted grant funding. The ideal candidate will be a relationship builder and systems thinker with experience in team-building, nonprofit finance, grant management, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Development (40%)

• Partner closely with executive leadership to assess priorities, allocate resources, and ensure that programs are staffed, supported, and aligned with the organization’s evolving roadmap
• Provide overall supervision and counsel for programming staff. Ensure staff engagement, support, and development, including regularly scheduled staff meetings, one-on-one meetings with staff directly reporting to the DOP, and assuring the implementation of RTD programming goals and strategies
• Mentor team members, grow future leaders, and establish best practices in program delivery
• Recruit, select, train, and evaluate staff members
• Initiate and set goals for programs based on the organization’s strategic objectives, in collaboration with the director of strategic planning and program managers

Finance & Grants Management (40%)

• Develop and manage program operations and budgets
• Oversee grant budgets, track expenses, and prepare reports to ensure compliance with all grant requirements and deadlines
• Support budget development and forecasting in collaboration with the Executive Director and program staff
• Prepare monthly financial reports for leadership and the Board of Directors
• Develop and maintain internal controls, financial policies, and procedures to ensure accountability and transparency, operational efficiency, and effective grant implementation
• Serve as the primary liaison with external accountants, auditors, and funders for financial reviews and annual filings
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards (GAAP), IRS regulations, and federal/state grant requirements (e.g., 2 CFR Part 200).

Community & Stakeholder Engagement (20%)

• Lead the development and implementation of inclusive outreach strategies focused on environmental justice, public education, and civic engagement, in collaboration with program managers
• Build and sustain partnerships with community-based organizations, advocacy groups, and underrepresented communities
• Oversee the planning and execution of community events, workshops, and public forums (virtual and in-person)
• Represent Restore the Delta in coalitions, public meetings, and stakeholder convenings
• Track and evaluate outreach impact and community feedback to inform strategy and program development

Qualifications Required

• 7+ years of progressive experience in nonprofit leadership (including program design, development, and management), community engagement, and financial management.
• Requires daily work in the Delta region
• Demonstrated experience building partnerships with diverse communities, particularly BIPOC, low-income, immigrant, or rural populations.
• Capacity to think strategically and analytically about social, economic, cultural, and political issues affecting a community
• Skilled communicator with the ability to present complex financial and policy information clearly
• Capable of translating long-term objectives into structured programs, ensuring alignment between executive vision and day-to-day activities.
• Passion for environmental justice, racial equity, and community empowerment.
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and communicate effectively with a small team
• Strong background in grant budgeting, reporting, and compliance for public and private funders, including understanding of GAAP and not-for-profit accounting principles
• Proficiency in QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Google Suite, and digital communication platforms.
• Strong understanding of fund accounting and restricted vs. unrestricted funds
• Experience working with multiple funders and complex grant reporting requirements
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $90,000–$95,000 annually, depending on experience
• Benefits Include:
• Paid health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Optional FSA and Aflac coverage
• Two weeks paid vacation, sick leave, and paid state/federal holidays
• Hybrid work schedule with flexible hours