Conservation Assistant

Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated employee to perform a variety of duties relating to conservation programs.   This is a permanent, full-time technical position involving all aspects of Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) programs in Cortland County.  The employee performs a variety of duties related to water resources, water quality, natural resources protection and the establishment of conservation practices on public and private properties. Diverse cooperators, resource needs and watershed concerns create a challenging and inspiring work environment with opportunities for this position to make a difference on the landscape, in the community and at a regional watershed level.

Civil Service Status:  Competitive; Provisional

Examples of Duties:

- Implements agricultural and environmental management and planning programs involving data collection and the development of Best Management Practice recommendations;

- Prepares natural resource conservation plans for public and private properties including: stormwater management and erosion and sediment control plans, nutrient management plans, prescribed grazing management plans, etc.; 

- Provides technical assistant to landowners, groups, and units of local government including surveys, engineering designs, cost estimates, layout, implementation, and construction inspection of soil and water conservation practices;

- Assists with development of grant proposals; performs activities required for the initiation and implementation of special programs and projects; prepares permit applications as needed; 

- Conducts soil investigations, collects surface and groundwater samples and other water monitoring data; compiles resource data and maps; performs field services and data collection activities such as hydroseeding and tree planting; 

- Provides conservation education, conducts outreach, attends functions and meetings, serves on committees and interacts with other natural resource organizations, agencies, and at activities on behalf of the SWCD.

Applicant Qualifications:

A. An Associate Degree or higher in Natural Resource Conservation, Agricultural Technology, Construction Technology, Education, Public Relations, or related field; OR

B. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and college level course work in Natural Resource Conservation, Agricultural Technology, Construction Technology, etc., or related field AND at least two years of related professional experience in natural resource conservation or related field; OR

C. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).