Natural Resource Specialist

The Columbia County Soil & Water Conservation District has an opening for a full time Natural Resource Specialist position. The Natural Resource Specialist is primarily responsible for performing technical duties associated with the conservation of natural resources for the Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District according to written and established policies. This position is not remote.

The Natural Resource Specialist will coordinate and carry out the District’s Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) program; lead the equipment rental program that promotes nutrient management and soil conservation on small farms; provide Soil Group Worksheets for the Agricultural Assessment Program for qualified landowners in the county; support the District’s GIS capabilities, among other duties. This position will report directly to the District’s Executive Director.

Experience and Education Required

• Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in conservation, natural resources, agriculture, agronomy, forestry, or closely related field and two years of experience in agriculture, soil and water conservation work, or a closely related field; or
• Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university with an associate’s degree in conservation, natural resources, agriculture, agronomy, forestry, or closely related field and five years of experience in nutrient management, soil and water conservation work, or a closely related field; or
• An equivalent combination of training and experience defined by the limits of “A” and “B” above.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and carry out the District’s Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) program;
• Complete agricultural value assessment forms for the Agricultural Assessment Program, in coordination with town assessors;
• Develop prescribed rotational grazing plans and other conservation plans as part of the District’s AEM program;
• Lead construction inspection for conservation implementation projects;
• Manage the District’s equipment rental program (no-till drill, manure spreader);
• Provide natural resource related technical support to landowners and municipalities;
• Assist the Education Program Coordinator with trail planning, trail construction and educational programs upon request;
• Manage the District’s GIS capabilities and mapping services;
• Provide general farm assistance related to established Best Management Practices;
• Other tasks as assigned by the District’s Executive Director;

Desired knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Dependability, flexibility, neatness, attention to detail, accuracy, enthusiasm;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to summarize effectively and communicate concisely;
• Ability to assemble and prepare information necessary to apply for and administer grants and reimbursements;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and desire to work cooperatively as a contributing team member;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and GIS;
• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of agricultural resource conservation;
• Familiarity with the AEM and agricultural Best Management Practices is a plus;
• Ability to interpret various natural resource maps;
• Some fundamental knowledge of drafting and design, and the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings;
• Working knowledge of surveying is a plus;
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Salary and Benefits

Salary range for this position is 45,000-55,000 commensurate with experience, certifications & education. The District offers an excellent benefits package, including paid holidays, annual, personal and sick leave; health insurance including dental; and access to the NYS retirement system.