Whidbey Island Conservation District

 

FARM & FOREST NATURAL RESOURCE SPECIALIST

 

INTRODUCTION:

The Whidbey Island Conservation District (WICD) was established in 1967 to assist private land users on Whidbey Island with conservation of natural resources. The District is a legal subdivision of the Washington State government organized under “Conservation District Law”, RCW Chapter 89.08. We are non-regulatory, which means that landowner engagement with the District is voluntary and incentive-based. Our employees are recognized for their ability to assist Whidbey Island’s residents with a high level of professionalism and expertise. The District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

NATURE OF WORK:

This non-exempt regular position is located in Coupeville, Washington, and provides technical services to farmers and landowners to improve natural resource stewardship and promote conservation actions. Primary duties include providing Whidbey Island residents with site-specific conservation evaluations and technical assistance, developing client-driven resource management plans for farm and forest landowners, development and administration of cost share contracts to assist clients with designs and implementation of conservation practices of public benefit, working with partners and volunteers on community conservation projects, and providing a broad range of technical conservation-related outreach and public education services. The ability to offer exceptional customer service, earn the trust of the public, and work cooperatively with a diverse population is essential to this position. Work is performed under the supervision of the District Manager.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Respond to agricultural landowner’s requests for assistance as well as pro-actively outreach to landowners in priority
  • Conduct site visits with commercial agricultural producers, small farms, horse owners, and urban farmers.
  • Provide recommendations on natural resource management through discussions, follow-up visits, and technical assistance
  • Develop and write resource management plans in partnership with
  • Provide exceptional customer service, maintaining
    • Assist with grant management and report writing and maintain records as required to document project and grant
  • Plan and implement a broad range of technical conservation-related education and outreach activities including both written and oral
  • Work with partners and volunteers on community conservation
  • Serve on relevant community planning/advisory
  • Perform other duties as assigned by

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience and/or BA or BS in natural sciences, agriculture, forestry, natural resource management, soil science or closely related
  • Minimum of NRCS Planning Certification Training, Level

 

  • Knowledge of Best Management Practices for small and large agricultural operations related to water quality, wildlife habitat, nutrient management, manure management, mud management, and drainage.
  • Knowledge of livestock types and livestock management in relation to both small and large operations.
  • Excellent communication skills, both one-on-one and in group settings.
  • Willingness to contact and meet with interested landowners and partners.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships with fellow staff and the general public.
  • Clear and organized writing and research skills, and strong math skills.
  • Computer and software proficiency (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Proficiency with GIS mapping technology and software; AutoCAD a plus.
  • Ability to work independently; have a strong work ethic; use good judgement; maintain confidentiality.
  • Have a current WA driver’s license and a personal vehicle available for work travel, reimbursed per mile at the WA State rate. WICD does not own a vehicle.
  • Capacity to physically perform the tasks of the job, including driving, working outside in inclement weather, walking on uneven ground, and lifting up to 40lbs.

 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience with the Natural Resources Conservation Service conservation planning processes.
  • Experience writing practice specifications, and with practice design implementation.
  • Experience in Farm Resource and Forest Resource management.
  • Familiarity with Whidbey Island’s natural resources and local agriculture.
  • Basic understanding of local Growth Management Act (GMA) and critical areas protection.
  • Knowledge of cost-share, landowner incentive programs including WA State Conservation Commission and USDA Farm Bill programs.
  • Experience with Access database software.
  • Background in project or grant management.

 

WORK CONDITIONS:

Normal office environment. Regular visits to farm and forest sites. Must have personal vehicle for work related transportation.

 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Full-time, $40,000 – $55,000 DOQ

WICD provides sick and vacation leave; medical, dental, and vision insurance; a Simple Retirement plan (WICD is not part of the WA State Public Employees Retirement System – PERS); and 11 paid holidays per year.

Regular professional development opportunities are offered and strongly encouraged.

WICD may consider two highly qualified, experienced, motivated part-time individuals to share this position.

 

WORK SCHEDULE:

40 hours/week. Some flexibility in scheduling may be permitted. From time to time, weekend and evening hours may be required.

 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please submit cover letter, fillable application (available at the WICD website www.whidbeycd.org), and resume to wicd@whidbeycd.org, subject line: NRS Job Applicant. Emailed applications are preferred. Three professional references will be required and contacted if applicant is selected for an interview. Application materials must be received on or before Wednesday, August 15, 2018. Position will remain open until filled.