Description

Under the guidance of the Jasper County SWCD Board of Supervisors and the Jasper County Commissioners, the Natural Resource Specialist is responsible for providing technical leadership in the planning and implementation of countywide conservation projects that promote the adoption of practices and systems designed to improve soil, water, and environmental health in agricultural, rural, and urban landscapes.

The Natural Resource Specialist serves as a technical resource in a broad range of natural resource management areas, with specialized knowledge of agricultural conservation practices and their application to soil, water, and related resource concerns. The position is responsible for researching, developing, analyzing, and communicating technical information to support the identification of local natural resource issues and the implementation of practical, science-based conservation solutions.

Key responsibilities include providing technical assistance and guidance to agricultural producers, landowners, and the general public; supporting the planning and delivery of District outreach, education, and conservation programs; and fostering strong working relationships within the agricultural community. The Natural Resource Specialist also collaborates with conservation partner organizations and serves in a technical advisory role to public officials, county government, and other stakeholders on matters related to natural resource conservation and sustainable land management.

The District operates in accordance with the District Operations Manual per the Indiana Soil and Water Conservation District Act (IC 14-32), the Jasper County Employee Handbook, and local Board of Supervisors policies.

Requirements

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties ARE NOT intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties. This is a summary of the primary duties, and all may or may not be required as listed. There may be additional duties as needed and as assigned by the Board of Supervisors.

1.       Cultivates relationships with and works directly assisting conservation partners and landowners (primarily NRCS, ISDA, FSA, DNR, IDEM, Purdue Extension), to develop, analyze, coordinate the implementation, and follow up on the completion of various agricultural conservation practices. including but not limited to; CRP, EQIP, WHIP, WRP, local projects, etc.

2.       Provides technical information and assists with outreach programs, including, but not limited to: adult education (agricultural and urban), field days, tours, education programs, and outreach to volunteer groups (Pheasant Forever, Quail Forever, Ducks Unlimited, Etc.)

3.       Researches and investigates new technologies, conservation practices, farming methods, etc. that help to improve soil health and water quality and are in line with the goals of the district.

4.       Respond to telephone calls and walk-in requests for assistance and/or direct the requests to the appropriate SWCD, NRCS, ISDA, FSA, or other agency personnel for assistance.

5.       Builds strong relationships with area farmers and landowners as a technical conservation resource, developing conservation plans, identifying and resolving implementation obstacles.

6.       Collects, records, and analyzes water quality data for surface and ground water within the watershed.

7.       Collects data in the field, as needed.

8.       Works effectively with stakeholders, other Soil and Water Districts, and conservation partners to develop and implement various types of conservation management plans.

9.       Participates in the county planning process and provides expertise regarding natural resources as they are impacted by urban and agricultural development.

10.   Provides technical data to other county agencies regarding current conditions of ground and surface water, soil health, and other resource concerns.

11.   Develops and maintains databases and digital maps of all watershed data with GIS or other software.

12.   Assists NRCS in the development of engineering plans for projects impacting natural resources based on design survey information when needed.

13.   Possesses knowledge of invasive species and noxious weeds and can provide technical assistance to the Jasper County Weed Control Board.

14.   Provides data as requested by the SWCD Board of Supervisors in a reasonable and timely manner.

15.   Attends and prepares reports for the monthly SWCD Board of Supervisors meetings.

16.   Continuously builds technical knowledge and periodically attends seminars and/or conservation partner meetings as assigned.

17.   Continuously seeks to build skills with the use of software, including but not limited to Excel, GIS, and the Microsoft Office Suite.

18.   Performs other related duties as requested by the Jasper County SWCD Board of Supervisors per the District Operations Manual.

19.   Provides the Office Coordinator with an up-to-date calendar of all scheduled events and activities that will be made available to the Board.

20.   Follows the Business Plan and Annual Plan of Work as determined and approved by the Board of Supervisors.

21.   Abides by the District Operations Manual, the Jasper County Employee Handbook, and additional District policies.

22.   Completes federal clearance as soon as possible to gain access to the USDA office and network per USDA requirements.

23.   Provides a professional appearance while on duty, including long pants, closed-toed shoes, and shirts with the District logo.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1.       Possesses a Bachelor's Degree or an Associate's Degree in a natural resources field such as agriculture, agronomy, hydrology, biology, forestry, natural resources management, or environmental science.

2.       Possesses 1-5 years of related field or technical experience preferred.

3.       Demonstrates enthusiasm for this role and is a self-starter. Works well independently and collaboratively.

4.       Has relevant knowledge and experience in agriculture, the technical aspects of farming, and current agriculture systems and technology. Agricultural training and knowledge are a high priority for the District.

5.       Experience and knowledge in grant development, implementation, documentation, and reporting are preferred.

6.       Is innovative and has good problem-solving skills.

7.       Possesses strong interpersonal skills for consensus building and professional partner development, and is an effective communicator.

8.       A working knowledge of computer software, including but not limited to ArcGIS and Microsoft Suite.

9.       Possesses strong organizational skills and abilities to conduct administrative reporting and record-keeping.

10.   Willingness to follow oral and written instructions, work alone and with others in a team environment with minimum supervision.

11.   Ability to work rapidly for long periods, work on several tasks at the same time, and complete assignments effectively amidst frequent distractions and interruptions, and often under time pressure.

12.   Effectively communicates orally and in writing with SWCD Board of Supervisors, co-workers, other County departments, elected officials, related agency personnel, community groups, news media, and the public, while being sensitive to professional ethics, gender, cultural diversities, and disabilities.

13.   Knowledge of federal, state, and local conservation agencies and programs.

14.   Possesses a valid driver’s license and demonstrates a safe driving record.