Position Website and Application Information
The Champaign County Soil and Water Conservation District is seeking a full-time Resource Conservationist to administer and implement soil and water conservation outreach, education, and technical assistance. The position is located in the Champaign USDA Service Center with the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The anticipated start date will occur in August 2022.
Position Responsibilities
Job duties include, but are not limited to, coordinating activities among partners and committees, providing reliable management of the District office operations, providing outreach for youth and adults, field investigations, and conservation design preparation per established standards.
Technical:
- Provide technical assistance to customers and partners to address natural resource concerns
- Advise landowners and operators about conservation planning practices and programs
- Lead implementation of existing watershed plans
- Complete site visits for compliance review and/or address landowner and operator questions or concerns
- Maintain and utilize GIS layers for resource planning
- Utilize NRCS software to administer and develop conservation plans
- Assist in education and implementation of the Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS)
- Implement and follow guidelines of the IL Water Use Act
- Facilitate cost-share and incentive programs, i.e., IDOA Partners for Conservation program, to disburse funds for conservation practices
Education & Outreach:
- Facilitate meetings, workshops, tours, etc. that promote conservation of urban and rural natural resources
- Develop, organize, and promote adult and youth educational events
- Work with staff and advisory committees on the District-owned wetland and prairie for maintenance, fundraising, and education purposes
- Attract and execute public relations through news releases, displays, newsletters, radio interviews, pictures, etc. with media and partners
- Maintain and enhance working relationships with partners in conservation and stakeholders
- Provide friendly, useful/valuable/high-quality conservation information to the community
- Maintain and enhance the District web page and social media pages
Operational:
- With the Conservation Coordinator, be responsible for the management of day-to-day operations of the District
- Maintain relationships with partners, including NRCS, IDOA, IDNR, etc.
- Serve as STAR Licensee for Champaign County
- Prepare reports for monthly Board meetings
- Develop, recommend, implement, and evaluate District policies and procedures
- Attend meetings, workshops, training courses, and seminars that enhance District programs and services
- Assist with district sales for habitat and conservation enhancement
- Track and report Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) accomplishments
- Coordinate development and management of grant project budgets
- Research and submit grant applications, track grant spending, and fulfill grant reporting requirements
Desired Qualifications
Education:
- BA/BS degree in conservation, agriculture, agronomy, environmental science, or similar field is preferred
Experience and Skills:
- Candidates must be passionate about conservation in an agricultural environment
- Knowledge of current trends in agriculture, including nutrient management, soil health, etc.
- Established relationships with members of the agricultural community
- Knowledge and interest in urban conservation and green infrastructure
- Organized, self-motivated, innovative
- Prioritize and complete tasks independently with respect to deadlines
- Possess excellent oral and written communication skills
- Proficient with basic office software required, GIS experience preferred
- Ability to interpret data and communicate to non-scientific stakeholders
- Create and manage grants for short- and long-term funding
Compensation and Benefits
This is a full-time position with benefits and a flexible work schedule. The starting salary range is $40,000-$50,000 and will be commensurate with education and experience. Employees are given a yearly contract with funding dependent upon government allocations and grants. A valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance are required, as well as a Federal background check. A competitive insurance coverage package, along with paid vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time will be provided.
