Soil Conservationist jobs in Lynchburg, VA

Conservation Technician

Job Description

This position will be primarily responsible for providing technical assistance with regard to soil and water best management practices. The Conservation Technician will work under the supervision of the Board of Directors in administration of the Virginia Ag. BMP Program. Specific duties of this position will support the Robert E Lee SWCD Strategic Plan and Annual Plan of Work.

This position is classified as NON-EXEMPT under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Performs technical work involving a variety of state and federal assistance programs and laws; does related work as required. Much of the work is performed outdoors, may involve livestock, and carries some personal hazard. Work is performed under intermittent supervision and requires operation of a motor vehicle on and off-road.

This is medium work requiring the exertion of 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force. Clear communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word, and conveying detailed or important instructions to others accurately. Should be able to prepare and analyze written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, hazards, and atmospheric conditions. The worker may be exposed to chemicals, animal waste, and oil, and may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment.

• Provide onsite technical assistance with regard to soil and water conservation, making recommendations for best management practices.
• Assist the Conservation Specialist to administer the Virginia Ag. BMP Program, including management of cost-share funds, completing associated contract paperwork and engineering designs as required for the program.
• Serve on Committees and assist in carrying out their duties.
• Compliance with personnel, and other policies of the Robert E Lee SWCD.
• Interact with partner agencies, to every reasonable extent, in accomplishing the goals of the District.

• Attend monthly board meetings, staff meetings, trainings, workshops, State and Area meetings as directed by the Board of Directors. Occasional overnight stays are required.
• Assists with District educational outreach efforts including farm tours, publicizing District events/programs, etc. and reporting on those activities.
• Ability to transport and maneuver 22’ Education trailer.
• Assists with educational programs as requested by partner agencies and organizations as time permits.
• Be responsible to follow policies and procedures for Monitoring of the six Dams in our District. Assists with development of the District’s Annual Report.
• Performs related tasks as required.

· Sound working knowledge of computer software utilized by the District, including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite, GIS, and engineering software used for planning of agricultural best management practices. Ability to operate GPS and survey equipment utilized by the District.

· Other duties as assigned by the District Directors or staff.

General knowledge of agricultural best management practices; familiarity with Virginia and federal laws and programs surrounding conservation practices and programs; general computer ability; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and the general public; ability to communicate clearly orally and in writing with Board members and citizens of diverse backgrounds, ability to produce clear reports.

Must have a valid Virginia driver’s license. Shall obtain DCR Conservation Planner Certification and a basic level of DCR Engineering Job Approval Authority as training becomes available.

High School Degree. Required knowledge and experience with agriculture practices.

The pay scale for this position is $42000 to $48000. This position provides the following benefits:

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, VRS retirement

State Holidays, Vacation and Personal time accrual.

Please email state application and resume to cindy.miller@releeconservation.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Experience:

• Commercial driving: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Preferred)
• CDL (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Appomattox, VA 24522 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Appomattox, VA 24522: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person