District Technician

Job Description:

The County Soil and Water District Technician provides technical support to farmers, forest owners, and ranchers. Works collaboratively with other district, state, federal staff, and partners to promote state, federal, and local conservation programs. Works with private landowners to assist in enrolling in the federal conservation programs and to work with them to enhance their revegetation efforts to improve water quality and habitat.

Qualifications

-High school or equivalent (Required)
-Driver’s License (Required)
-US work authorization (Required)

-Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources, Biology, Environmental Science, or Agriculture is preferred but not required.

Duties:

Under the direct supervision of professionals, this employee will complete the technical design and layout of conservation practices according to state and or NRCS standards and specifications.

Develops soil and water conservation plans and identifies practices that protect, conserve, and enhance natural resources.

· Displays a strong grasp of state and federal conservation programs available to landowners.

· Advises landowners on conservation practice options that address natural resource concerns on their land.

· Explains programs, technical, and financial options available to landowners to address the resource concerns.

· Provides technical support to the conservation planners by collecting data and utilizing tools and equipment available through the field office.

· Schedules field visits, completes on-site inspections, conducts preliminary surveys, and cost estimates for conservation practice installation

· Completes layout, design, and checkout of conservation practices such as terraces, waterways, and cover crops using survey equipment and computer programs

· Oversees contractor construction and inspects completed practices for compliance with standards and specifications

· Review conservation and construction plans with landowners, staff, and contractors

· Provides courteous, impartial service to all landowners, operators and contractors in carrying out soil and water conservation programs.

· Maintains good working relationships with co-workers promoting a high level of productivity.

· Attends required state and federal meetings and completes required training necessary to retain competencies for the position.

· Performs other duties as required. Possibly some clerical.

Qualifications:

· Strong background in agriculture and conservation.

· Strong interpersonal skills and proficient communicator.

· Computer experience a plus.

· Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision and display high standards of ethical conduct.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills

SUPERVISION This position is under supervision of the Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) board members. Coordination of day-to-day activities is by the NRCS District Conservationist, who may assist in resolving any conflicts in assignments. This position does not supervise other employees.

PERFORMANCE of this position will be reviewed regularly by the Soil and Water Conservation District and District Conservationist.

Essential Functions:

· Ability to walk over slippery, wet, or uneven terrain

· Valid driver’s license is required

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $14.00 - $28.00 per hour

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $14 - $28