District Conservation Technician

Position Overview

Under the general supervision of the Lead Technician and District Administrator, this employee is responsible for technical assistance on conservation and natural resource planning initiatives. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to:

• Actively promotes conservation initiatives and the mission of Wood County Soil and Water Conservation District including conducting field visits to meet with landowners, assess conservation needs and support implementation of conservation practices. 
• This position, under the supervision of the Lead Technician, is responsible for District’s rental equipment. This individual will assist landowners in delivery, set-up and calibration of the equipment as requested
• This individual will perform regular maintenance on District owned equipment. 
• Advise landowners on conservation practices to reduce erosion, protect water quality and improve habitats. 
• Assists with survey and design of conservation practices.
• Implements goals and objectives as assigned in the Wood County SWCD annual plan of work.
• Enters district activities and data into Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) reporting software systems.
• Assists with other District programs, events, and outreach efforts.
• Attends and presents at internal and external meetings and events.
• Adheres to the Wood County SWCD employment policies and all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Pursues continuous education and professional development opportunities as identified and directed.
• Must continuously maintain a valid driver’s license, automobile insurance, and good driving record.
• Occasional local and overnight travel may be required.
• Additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Lead Technician or District Administrator.

Physical and Environmental Factors:

The incumbent may be exposed to the following:

• Lifting/Carrying up to 25 pounds
• Exposure to extreme weather while outdoors
• Hazardous exposure:  maneuvers over rough and steep terrain on foot when working outside.

Skillsets

• Understanding soil properties, erosion processes, water cycles, and their impact on land use and conservation.
• Skills in analyzing soil and water data, interpreting results, and making informed recommendations based on findings.
• Knowledge of best practices for soil erosion control, water conservation, and sustainable land management.
• Assist in preparation of reports, technical documentation, and recommendations based on field data and research.
• Maintaining accurate records of field observations, project progress, and data.
• Understanding and applying relevant local, state, and federal regulations related to soil and water conservation.
• Proficiency in using software for data management, GIS, AutoCAD and other specialized tools.
• Knowledge and understanding of governing rules, ORC, working agreements, regulations and strategic plans specific to County SWCD and Department of Agriculture, Division of Soil Water Resources, Natural Resources of Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency and other conservation organizations.

Minimum Requirements:

• Education:   Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, natural resource management, environmental science, or related field required, associate’s degree accepted.
• Experience:  Minimum two years of experience working with ag equipment. Prefer experience with GIS, AutoCAD related equipment and programs.

Salary Range:

• $21.00-$23.00 per hour commensurate with experience