The Holston River Soil & Water Conservation District is seeking a full-time Conservation Specialist / Education Specialist. Candidate should have knowledge of agricultural non-point source pollution issues. Background in farming, biology, environmental studies, or related field desired. Duties include, but are not limited to preparing & evaluating cost-share applications, computer application and reporting to the VA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation, surveying, providing technical assistance and planning/coordinating educational programs including but not limited to Envirothon, Farm Field Days, classroom lessons and small group lessons. Candidate must possess knowledge of soil and water conservation, have the ability to communicate effectively, have the ability to coordinate programs and interpret policies and procedures, have general knowledge of agricultural operations, and have knowledge of and ability to use survey equipment, interpret soil surveys, aerial photographs, and topographic maps. This position requires strong organization and communication skills. Candidate must be self-motivated.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
A Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Conservation, Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management is preferred, or a degree in a relevant field of study; previous experience with conservation best management practices and programs is preferred; or a relevant equivalent combination of education and experience. Engineering Job Approval Authority and Conservation Planning certifications through the VA Department of Conservation and Recreation are required or must be obtained within 24 months of employment.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
● Excellent oral and written communication skills with the demonstrated ability to effectively engage and collaborate with landowners and the general public, provide clear technical guidance, facilitate or assist with educational activities, programs, presentations, tours, etc. to effectively promote conservation practices to relevant stakeholders.
● Proficient use Microsoft Office software such as Word, Publisher, Access, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and GIS to perform assigned job duties..
● Consistently accurate interpretation and application of policies and procedures.
● Excellent project management, time management and organizational skills with demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and to work independently and schedule time wisely.
● Must have excellent interpersonal skills and develop and maintain effective working relationships with staff, directors, partners, government agencies and a diverse audience of stakeholders in the district.
● Excellent critical thinking skills, judgement, knowledge of conservation programs and best management practices to provide sound technical guidance and prepare design the most effective site BMP.
● Must have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record to be verified by DMV driving record.
● Physical ability to safely perform tasks involving frequent walking over difficult terrain, lifting and carrying moderate weight (25#) with and without assistance, and exposure to adverse weather conditions.
DUTIES
1. Administration of SWCD’s Agricultural Programs and Conservation Planning & Technical Assistance to include but not limited to;
a. Work in cooperation with other technical staff to prepare completed VACS applications for presentation to the SWCD Board of Directors. This may include the design of practices, multiple calculations, survey and map work, reference to standards and specifications in the VACS Manual, computing ranking evaluations, and preparing conservation plans.
b. Oversee maintenance of all agricultural program documents and records required by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation - Division of Soil and Water Conservation (DCR-DSWC) and the SWCD in an accurate manner.
c. Responsible for ensuring that all VACS Program and CREP applications and contracts are accurately entered into the VA BMP Tracking Program.
d. Work with other technical staff to calculate VACS Program and CREP contract payments. Responsible for working with the staff to ensure contract payments are processed and issued in a timely and accurate manner.
2. Environmental Education to include but not limited to;
a. Coordinate the Envirothon Education Program at the local level. Cooperatively work with local team(s), coach(es), etc.
b. Promote and distribute information for VASWCD Educational Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Program, Holston River SWCD Scholarship Program, and other scholarships, as appropriate.
c. Promote and distribute information for recruitment of candidates to VASWCD’s annual Youth Conservation Camp.
d. Promote other youth conservation efforts as they arise throughout the fiscal year.
e. Explore additional opportunities, including grants, to enhance environmental education programs.
3. Other Assigned Duties to include but not limited to;
a. Obtain and manage grants as needed and assigned by the Board of Directors.
b. Maintain an accurate Time and Attendance Sheet and submit bi-monthly.
c. Attend Holston River SWCD monthly board meetings and monthly activities to the Board of Directors
Applicants should submit a completed state application, resume, cover letter, and current references to Amy Vance, HRSWCD District Manager at [email protected]
Applications will be taken until July 17th. Please reach out to the staff of Holston River Soil and Water Conservation District with any inquires at [email protected] or 276-525-6685.
Job Types: Contract, Full-time
Pay: $46,475.00 - $66,731.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Shift availability:
Work Location: In person
