Wildfire Preparedness Technician

 INTRODUCTION: The Lincoln County Conservation District (LCCD) is the lead partner for the implementation of a Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) and Forest Health Grant in Lincoln County. The Wildfire Preparedness Technician is a new position created to manage this grant project and to provide support to Lincoln County Fire Resiliency Communities. This position is best filled by a self-starter with strong project management skills, including experience coordinating collaborative partnerships, and budget tracking, strong organizational and facilitated leadership skills, a demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, knowledge and experience in forestry or wildfire mitigation, and the ability to think strategically. As project needs are identified, the Wildfire Preparedness Technician will collaboratively develop solutions to move project outcomes forward. The Wildfire Preparedness Technician is an hourly, at-will classification that reports directly to the LCCD District Manager.

WHY WORK WITH US? We are a culture deeply committed to the restoration and protection of the natural resources associated with working landscapes through voluntary incentive-based actions. Our small team is passionate about providing top-tier assistance for landowners and land managers to protect and conserve the soil, water, and habitats on their properties. Strong partnerships at all levels are at the heart of District work. We take pride in making a difference for the people, agricultural, and natural resources in our communities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  Implement Lincoln County’s CWDG program and Forest Health Grant. Work with partners to prioritize, plan, and implement on-the-ground wildfire fuel reduction projects. Work with landowners (public and private) in the project areas to implement the identified projects.  Manage project budgets and reporting requirements. Collaborate with partners and members to facilitate education and outreach activities for private landowners and the public.

QUALIFICATIONS: The desired qualifications for this position are a bachelor’s degree in forestry, environmental science, or other applicable fields, or five years of equivalent professional work experience. Strong experience in partnership building and collaborating with multiple diverse partners, stakeholders, and funders. Project management experience. Proficiency in project budget tracking. Clear verbal and written communication skills.  Ability to work both independently and with a team. Leadership skills and self-direction. Strong organizational skills.  Effective knowledge of common software applications. Experience related to wildfire preparedness or mitigation. Valid driver’s license.

 SKILL BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES In addition to on-the-job training opportunities, Conservation Districts offer formal training opportunities to build the desired skill set for this position. Conservation Districts are served by the Washington State Conservation Commission Center for Technical Development, CTD, a not-for-profit group created to ensure that Conservation Districts and employees have the proper tools and expertise to consistently plan and implement conservation programs. Any applicable training opportunities with CTD are available as well.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: LCCD ensures that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Please contact the District Manager (see below) if you need accommodation to participate in the application process.

SCHEDULE & WORKING CONDITIONS: This position is permanent (40 hours per week). Travel may be required with occasional overnight stays. LCCD is committed to ensuring staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits employee lifestyles. This position requires frequent sitting and standing, traversing uneven terrain on foot and widely varying weather conditions, and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs. This position description represents a general outline of the job duties, essential functions, and minimum required qualifications and is not intended to be comprehensive. Specific statements of duties not included do not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Job descriptions are subject to change as the needs of the LCCD and requirements of the job change.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Hourly wage starts at $27-33/hour DOE a month with an opportunity to negotiate higher based on skills and experience. LCCD observes eleven paid holidays. Employees accrue family/medical leave at a rate of 8 hrs./month and annual leave at a beginning rate of 8 hrs./month. LCCD provides medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for full-time employees. Participation in regular professional development opportunities is strongly encouraged and supported. LCCD participates in the Washington Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP). Terms of compensation and benefits are set by the Board of Supervisors and may be amended at any time.