Conservation Project Planner (Agriculture)

Conservation Project Planner (Agriculture)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Hourly Rate: $22.45-29.18 (DOE)

FSLA: Non-exempt

Supervisor: District Manager

Position Summary:
The primary focus of the Conservation Project Planner (Agriculture) is to work closely with Whitman Conservation District (WCD) staff, local agricultural producers, and conservation partners to develop and implement voluntary conservation plans. This position manages various projects, including the Direct Seed Program, conservation plans for producers, the Equipment Cost Share Program, and the installation of watering wells. All projects will adhere to NRCS practice codes. The planner will provide technical assistance, collect data, run tools and models, help write and manage grants, maintain equipment, oversee projects and conduct outreach to promote sustainable agricultural practices on private land. This role involves both fieldwork and office tasks and serves as an integral member of the team, coordinating efforts to enhance agricultural sustainability. This position will report directly to the District Manager.

Required Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Agriculture, Agronomy, Soil Science, Environmental Sciences, or a closely related field. Qualifying experience may substitute year-for-year for the education requirement.

· Two (2) years of experience in agricultural conservation practices, including direct experience with producers.

· Understanding of basic agronomic and agricultural economic principles.

· Capacity to develop and interpret soils maps & aerial photography.

· An understanding of agricultural practice in our region.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and GIS applications.

· Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.

· Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities.

· One (1) year Experience in the operation and maintenance of field tools (e.g., chainsaws, power tools).

· Physically able to carry up to 40 lbs. over steep and/or rough terrain in inclement weather conditions.

· Possesses a valid, unrestricted driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Certified Conservation Planner or in progress towards certification.

· Masters Degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, Range Management, Environmental Science or related field.

· Professional knowledge of policies and practices of Conservation Districts.

· Knowledge of local, state, and federal conservation grant programs (e.g., EQIP, CRP, CREP).

· Understanding of watershed management, particularly in agricultural contexts.

· Familiarity with local plant communities and ecology.

· In-depth knowledge of agronomic principles and conservation /regenerative practices

· Ability to translate technical and scientific knowledge, concepts into practical and understandable terms

· Washington State Public Pesticide applicators license or the ability to obtain certification.

BENEFITS:

Whitman Conservation District offers benefits for regular and project employees that include:

Medical/dental/vision, basic life and long-term disability insurance through the Washington State Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB)

o 100% of the premium cost for the employee is covered by WCD

o 50% of the premium cost for spouse and dependents is covered by WCD

Retirement through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS)

o Optional participation in the Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP)

12 days paid annual leave per year

13 paid holidays

80 hours annual Sick Leave.

Employees are eligible for full-time benefits after a 6-month probationary period.

TO APPLY

Please visit our web page to fill out a job application.

Send a resume and cover letter of intent by March 1st. 2025. to the WCD District Manager Josh Larsen at jlarsen@whitmancd.org.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.45 - $29.18 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $29