Conservation Specialist-WV Conservation Authority-Berkeley Co.

West Virginia; Martinsburg (WV); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The WV Conservation Authority - Berkeley Co. invites applications for a Conservation Specialist. This role provides technical and planning support on agricultural best management practices, stream restoration, and water quality programs for landowners and districts.

It involves fieldwork, reports, and collaboration with local, state, and federal partners. Ideal candidates bring a related Bachelor’s degree, knowledge of BMPs, GIS, and strong communication skills to coordinate programs like AgEP

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, biology, natural resources, or environmental science.
• Experience with watershed/NPS programs is a plus.
• Ability to work with landowners, districts and agencies.

Responsibilities

• Provides technical and program assistance to landowners, conservation districts and partner agencies.
• Provides conservation and nutrient management planning and application assistance.
• Develops and evaluates conservation plans.
• Implements WVCA conservation programs.
• Plans, designs, and oversees construction activities for conservation practices.
• Maintains records, soil sampling, water sampling and data collection.
• Manages projects and budgets within assigned districts.
• Prepares progress reports and attends district meetings.
• Performs inspections and ensures compliance with laws and standards.
• Assists with watershed assessments and grant proposals.
• Conducts field investigations for EWP and related programs.

Skills

Technical BMPs knowledge

GIS/GPS proficiency

MS Office proficiency

Public communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Associate degree + 3 years substitution

High school diploma + 5 years substitution

Tools

GPS devices

Soil sampling equipment

Job description

CONSERVATION SPECIALIST-WV CONSERVATION AUTHORITY-BERKELEY CO.

Nature of Work:

The Conservation Specialist position, working within the Field Operations Division, provides technical assistance, planning assistance and program information related to agricultural best management practices (BMPs), stream restoration techniques and non-point source (NPS) water quality issues to individual landowners, farmers, and conservation districts. The position is responsible for implementation and coordination of conservation programs that may include the West Virginia Agricultural Enhancement Program (AgEP), Environmental Protection Agency Non-Point Source 319 Program (319), Chesapeake Bay Program (C Bay) and educational programs. There is considerable interaction with the public, and local, state, and federal agencies. This position will perform related work as required and other duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

This position is a combination of office work and fieldwork that may include but is not limited to; traversing rough terrain, exposure to inclement weather, aerial flights, contact with livestock, operation of small watercraft, and use of bio-security measures. Some travel with overnight stays may be required.

Responsibilities:

• Provides technical and program assistance to landowners, conservation districts and partner agencies.
• Provides conservation and nutrient management planning and application assistance.
• Develops and evaluates conservation plans.
• Implements WVCA conservation programs.
• Plans, designs, and oversee construction activities associated with conservation practices.
• Responsible for record keeping, soil sampling and evaluation, forage testing, manure/litter sample collection and submittal for analysis, water sampling and other data gathering and evaluation procedures.
• Manages projects and budgets associated with conservation programs within assigned conservation district(s).
• Prepares progress reports associated with assigned projects and programs.
• Attends conservation district board meetings.
• Performs monthly and quarterly inspections pertaining to the Operation and Maintenance Program.
• Comply with federal, state, and local laws, standards, specifications, and requirements.
• Conducts watershed assessments to evaluate suitability for future project implementation.
• Assists in the development and implementation of watershed-based plans and grant proposals for funding through the 319 and Chesapeake Bay programs.
• Performs field investigations in accordance with the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP), Stream Restoration, Conservation Services and other construction or contract related programs.
• Prepares report of findings and recommendations for projects, to include all phases of final post construction close out.
• Assists with other WVCA programs as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to develop and implement conservation programs as a team member and/or individually.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, co-workers, and the public.
• Knowledge of water quality monitoring and sampling procedures/protocols.
• Knowledge of storm water management practices, sediment and erosion control practices, and natural stream restoration techniques.
• Knowledge of basic GIS/GPS systems and surveying techniques.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite computer programs.
• Knowledge of basic principles and practices of conservation planning and nutrient management planning.
• Ability to assimilate data and develop detailed reports related to work performed.
• Ability to provide technical leadership and assistance in planning and implementation of best management practices.
• Knowledge of heavy equipment and their capabilities.
• Ability to traverse rough terrain while carrying field/monitoring equipment.
• Knowledge of USDA Farm Bill programs and Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts.
• Knowledge of state, federal and local environmental/natural resource laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of soil fertility, animal nutrition, grassland management, pesticide management, and soil and water conservation practices.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in a related field such as agriculture, biology, natural resources, or environmental science.

Experience:

None

Education Substitution:

Associate degree from an accredited college or university in related field such as agricultural, biology, or environmental science and three (3) years of full-time paid employment in a related field such as agriculture, biology, natural resources, or environmental science.

Or

High school diploma and five (5) years of experience in a related field such as agriculture, biology, natural resources, or environmental science. The Education Substitution years of experience must be in addition to the required Experience.

Experience Substitution:

None