Managed Aquifer Recharge Program Manager

Selection process developed by matteria

La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico - Hybrid
Who we are

The Center for Applied Dryland Water Studies (CADWS) is a research and innovation center dedicated to advancing water security, ecological regeneration, and watershed resilience in arid and semi-arid regions. Based in Baja California Sur, CADWS integrates applied science, local knowledge, fieldwork, and cross-sector collaboration with communities, academia, government, and the private sector to develop real solutions to water scarcity.

Its purpose is clear: to turn drylands into living laboratories for sustainability and regenerative hydrology.

CADWS is part of a broader initiative supported by Innovaciones Alumbra (iAlumbra), an ecosystem committed to catalyzing models of economic development that restore nature, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable prosperity.

Through investments, operating companies, philanthropy, and strategic alliances, Alumbra advances regenerative initiatives across ocean, land, and place, with a strong focus on Baja California Sur.

Our impact

Impact (CADWS) in numbers:

• Over 200 hectares of land under regenerative management in Baja California Sur.
• Pilot projects on managed aquifer recharge (MAR), enhancing groundwater recovery in the Los Planes watershed.
• Alliances with local and international partners, including universities, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders.
• Applied research and knowledge-sharing initiatives bridging science, policy, and community practice.

Purpose of the Position

The Managed Aquifer Recharge Program Manager will lead CADWS's flagship initiative on Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR), turning the Los Planes watershed into a "living laboratory" for water regeneration. This role will design, coordinate, and scale projects that combine science, local expertise, and innovation to secure water.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Operations

• Manage human, logistical, and financial resources for aquifer recharge and erosion control projects.
• Oversee research agreements, field contracts, and demonstration projects connected to MAR.
• Develop funding proposals and innovative financial models (e.g., carbon credits, water bonds).

Applied Research & Monitoring

• Design and implement the applied research portfolio on MAR and nature-based solutions.
• Identify gaps, research opportunities, and partnerships across sectors (academia, NGOs, public sector).
• Systematize findings into publications, case studies, and public knowledge products.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Act as the technical and operational liaison for multi-stakeholder collaborations such as Aliados por el Agua.
• Coordinate learning visits for national and international decision-makers.
• Ensure local community participation and knowledge integration in all projects.

Education & Communication

• Chair and coordinate Research and Education Working Groups.
• Design and deliver a bi-monthly webinar series featuring local and international experts.
• Represent CADWS in forums and conferences to amplify results and lessons learned.

Requirements and competences to work with us

Education

• Master's degree in Watershed Management, Environmental Sciences, Water Resources Engineering, or related fields (required).
• Ph.D. preferred.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in integrated watershed management, groundwater recharge, or related disciplines.
• Proven experience working in arid and semi-arid regions.
• Demonstrated leadership in multi-stakeholder and interdisciplinary projects.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong understanding of regenerative practices, hydrological systems, and desert ecosystems.
• Project management expertise, including financial and resource planning.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for cross-sector collaboration.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (oral and written).

Competencies

• Strategic Leadership
• Collaboration and Partnership-Building
• Analytical and Systems Thinking
• Adaptability and Problem Solving
• Integrity and Cultural Sensitivity

Our team profile

At CADWS, our culture is rooted in curiosity, integrity, and regeneration. We are a mission-driven team that believes in combining scientific rigor with empathy for people and ecosystems. Collaboration, humility, and innovation are not just values—they are daily practices.

Organizational DNA:

- - Regenerative mindset and respect for nature.
- Evidence-based decision-making and transparency.
- Collaboration across disciplines and communities.

Key interests for working with us

• We are committed to addressing one of the most pressing global challenges: water scarcity in arid zones.
• Our work contributes to:
• • Climate resilience through ecosystem restoration.
• Community well-being via sustainable water access.
• Knowledge democratization by sharing applied science for social good

Reasons to join our team

• The opportunity to lead one of the most innovative water regeneration programs in Latin America.
• A collaborative environment within the Alumbra ecosystem—where business meets sustainability.
• Competitive compensation aligned with managerial-level positions.
• Health insurance and relocation support for national candidates.

Relevant details before applying for this vacancy

• Contract Type: Permanent (with 3–6 month trial period).
• Work Format: Hybrid – La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
• Preferred Start Date: January 2026.
• Languages: English and Spanish fluency required.

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