NATURAL RESOURCE PROGRAM SPECIALIST

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is technical work involving responsibility for assisting the Soil and Water Conservation District Manager with all aspects of the Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District programs. These duties include, but are not limited to: field surveys, design and supervision of conservation projects, assists with new program development, development of technical material and information for the benefit of all soil and water conservation programs. Work is performed under the general supervision of the District Manager with leeway for independent judgment. General supervision is over all subordinate personnel. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only)

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: nutrient management plans, manure management plans, prescribed grazing management plans, etc.;

Provides technical assistance to landowners, groups, and units of local government including the evaluation, survey, design, cost estimates, layout, implementation, and construction inspection of soil and water conservation practices;

Develops and implements SWCD contracts with landowners;

Provides technical oversight to district staff;

Assists District Manager with new program development;

Develops, writes, implements, and administers water quality and other special grant programs as required by the District Manager;

Prepares final reports and documentation for grant programs;

Supervises district personnel as directed by the District Manager;

Provides training to technical staff;

Conducts soil investigations, inventories, and evaluations of natural resources and management activities;

Analyzes and recommends potential land use projects and programs as they relate to soil, water, and other natural resources;

Prepares permit applications as needed;

Represents SWCD at meetings of cooperating agencies, organizations, and municipalities;

Conducts a public information program including radio shows, newsletters, brochures, tours, slide shows, news articles, etc.;

Coordinates and implements assigned SWCD programs such as the Seedling Program, Pond Stocking Programs, and Agricultural Assessment Program;

Prepares a monthly work report and keeps daily narrative.

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NATURAL RESOURCE PROGRAM SPECIALIST

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FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of agricultural operatives and practices; good knowledge of the principles and practices of natural resource conservation and Best Management Practices for erosion control, water quality, and water management; good knowledge of public or business administration and personnel management; working knowledge and experience in the use of computers and word processing; ability to interpret maps, charts, and graphs; ability to compile data and prepare reports; good verbal and interpersonal skills; good organizational and time management skills; dependable; enthusiastic; physical condition commensurate with the demands

of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Either

A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or NYS registered college with an Associate Degree or higher in Natural Resource Conservation, Agricultural Technology, Construction Technology, Environmental Science, Engineering or related field AND four (4) years experience in natural resources, agriculture, construction, environmental management, engineering or related field of which at least one (1) year must be in a supervisory or administrative capacity; OR

B. Graduation for high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma AND at least six (6) years experience in natural resource conservation, agriculture, construction, environmental management, engineering or related field, at least one (1) year of which must be in a supervisory or administrative capacity.

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

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid NYS Drivers License.