Networking Her Way to Impact: Melanie Klym’s Job Search Success Story

Sometimes the path to your ideal career winds like the rivers you’re passionate about protecting. For Melanie Klym, a combination of strategic networking, professional development, and staying true to her values led her from private consulting to her current role as Northwest River Restoration Director at American Rivers. Her job search success story offers valuable advice for anyone looking to transition between sectors while building meaningful professional relationships along the way.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for? 

I joined American Rivers in 2024 and am based in Corvallis, Oregon. As the Northwest River Restoration Director, I work at a local level to support expanded dam removal efforts in Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. 

My work includes assessments, regional and national policy and advocacy initiatives, supporting regional workforce development, and providing technical support for regional dam removal and related river restoration projects.

What do you like best about your career? 

I like using the combination of my skills, abilities, resources, and connections to make a positive and lasting impact on our rivers. I grew up exploring the woods and wetlands in Massachusetts, where I loved watching how the rivers changed throughout the seasons and observing the abundant wildlife. I have a strong appreciation for free-flowing healthy rivers. 

Before joining American Rivers, I relocated to Oregon as an AmeriCorps volunteer focused on watershed restoration in the City of Gresham. My interest in engineering was sparked upon completing the Portland State University River Restoration Professional Certificate. 

Subsequently, I spent 15 years as a consultant engineer and geomorphologist. During that time, I managed and mentored staff, communicated project goals, collaborated with partners, and served as Engineer-of-Record on dam removal and related river restoration projects. 

I value utilizing my multidisciplinary background to translate ideas into collaborative action.

What resources ​have helped you in your career and your job searches? Are there specific tools or tactics that have contributed to your success? 

My network within the river restoration community has been extensively developed through dedicated volunteering with local watershed councils, consistent attendance at professional and social events, and active participation in mentorship programs. 

This network proved invaluable when I sought to transition from private for-profit consulting to a career in public service or the nonprofit sector. I conducted informational interviews with mentors who had experience in these roles, gaining insights into their successes and challenges. These discussions provided crucial awareness of impending opportunities at American Rivers and with local watershed councils.

I engaged with a career resilience coach to evaluate my strengths and values, thereby selecting opportunities that aligned with them. Becky Farone of Fireworks Coaching provided actionable guidance, assisted in the preparation of my applications, and conducted mock interview sessions. The external perspective and coaching support during this career transition were exceptionally beneficial.

Throughout your career, what obstacles have you encountered when doing a job search, and how did you overcome them? 

The environmental sector in the Northwest presents a unique challenge: a high concentration of highly motivated and talented individuals vying for limited opportunities. Standing out among such an excellent crowd, especially when many are familiar with one another, can be challenging.

 My strategy to overcome this involves consistent engagement within the community through volunteer events, professional organizations, and conferences. When meeting new people, I make a conscious effort to understand their interests and then follow up with relevant resources, articles, or ideas. 

Building a strong network requires sustained connection and a commitment to giving back, ideally more than one expects to receive.

What piece of advice would you give to job seekers or professionals trying to advance in their careers? 

My top tip is to consistently build and nurture your network, even when you’re not job searching. I’m always eager to learn about what drives people’s success and how I can contribute to it. You never know when you’ll collaborate with another organization, and understanding their needs beforehand will make you an invaluable partner.

Everyone’s job search story is different, but each individual story can inspire and empower others who are on their own unique path. We love to hear how our readers have found rewarding careers in Portland, and we want to share these stories with you to inspire you in your job search and to help us all better understand the local job market.