District Conservation Technician

This position provides technical services in the planning, survey, design and installation of conservation engineering practices.  The position is headquartered in the NRCS office located in Wray, Colorado and primarily aids the clientele in the Yuma County Conservation District with the possibility of providing occasional services to neighboring areas.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strong understanding of computers and applications with an ability to master new applications and technologies is a must.
• Addresses resource concerns in such areas as erosion control, water management and water quality enhancement and addresses irrigation efficiency concerns associated with the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
• Electronically prepares designs, drawings, specifications and cost estimates for conventional engineering practices or systems.
• Provides quality control services including layout and construction checks to ensure adherence to technical standards. Explains construction details to service center personnel, landowners, and contractors.
• Review designs prepared by others for compliance with Agency technical standards, accuracy of information, completeness, and feasibility of construction.
• Assist with conservation practice implementation, within NRCS standards and specifications as required.
• Conduct research related to conservation issues, best practices, best science, service providers, permitting requirements, and potential cost share or funding assistance.
• Skill in effective two-way communications, listening and communicating in verbal and written form, and in making public presentations.
• Skill in time management and effectively managing multiple priorities.
• Assist with conservation plan reviews and spot checks as needed.
• Function as a district liaison to landowners for conservation district projects and programs.
• Prepare and maintain files, correspondences, and some administrative duties necessary to fulfill conservation technician responsibilities in a professional and timely fashion.
• Attendance at District Board meetings and other meetings or training are required by supervisor(s)/district board.

This position is funded through the Yuma County Conservation District (YCCD) with 20% of workload devoted to projects and programs to the YCCD.  The other 80% of the workload will be working alongside NRCS to provide conservation technical assistance to landowners.

• Ability to operate a motor vehicle on both public and private roads during daylight hours and occasionally after dark as needed to perform the duties of the position.  Strong navigation and map reading skills. Must be able to navigate in rural areas. A clean and valid state driver’s license is required.
• Ability to understand and conduct written and oral instructions; ability to get along well with others; manual dexterity; mechanical aptitude; accuracy; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
• Displays courteous and tactful behavior towards internal and external customers, supervisors, coworkers and/or team members. Projects a positive and professional image of the Yuma County Conservation District. Performs all duties in a manner which consistently demonstrates fairness, cooperation and respect towards coworkers, office visitors and all others in the performance of official business. Demonstrates an awareness of Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights responsibilities based on NRCS policies of valuing a diverse, yet unified workforce. Assures the delivery of agency programs and services are conducted in accordance with policy and producers without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age or physical or mental handicap.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or GED
• At least two years’ experience in agriculture and/or natural resource conservation.
• Demonstrate good oral and written communication skills – preferably including rural communities and government agencies.
• Demonstrate ability to maintain confidentiality of cooperator business and records.
• Project work will require all-weather physical activity, including in-water work, use of basic hand and field tools, navigating in rural areas, and the ability to lift 40 pounds.
• Working longer days may be required during field season with some evening and weekend work required.
• Must be able to pass a government background check.