Resource Conservationist

Hiring Organization: Ingham Conservation District
Employment type: Full-Time
Job Location: Mason, MI
Application Due Date: April 30, 2025

The Resource Conservationist is responsible for assisting the NRCS Mason Field Office District Conservationist in everyday office responsibilities, technical assistance, field work, and conservation plan development and promotion of the NRCS programs. Resource Conservationists work cooperatively with federal, state, and local partners to provide connections to resources and programs, including, but not limited to: EQIP and CSP. These exciting and rewarding professional career opportunities are focused on conservation and environmental protection. Applicants may bring training, knowledge, education, or experience focused on soil and water conservation, watershed management, habitat and wildlife, agriculture, natural resources, environmental sustainability, forestry, urban agriculture and conservation, or other closely related backgrounds and fields of study.

General Essential Functions (Specific functions will be assigned based on agreement requirements)

● Assist the NRCS District conservationist with NRCS programs such as CSP

● Develop conservation plans consisting of practices that will mitigate or reduce environmental risks, improve water quality, and improve habitat for wildlife

● Develop and provide education, outreach programs and events for the public. Outreach efforts will include underserved communities, Limited Resource Farmers and Landowners, the Socially Disadvantaged, and Beginning Farmers and Veteran farmers. This work will be completed across Ingham and Livingston counties.

● Coordinate events which will highlight Best Management Practices (BMPs) that reduce sediment and nutrient loading, and various partner programs to include agriculture, forestry, wildlife and habitat systems

● Conducts on-farm assessments using various tools

● Provides timely monthly and quarterly reporting of deliverables and accomplishments; timely updates to various databases

● Attends and participates in various professional development sessions and training events

● Collaborates with District staff and external partners to promote conservation and educate diverse audiences on the importance of environmental quality

● Performs other essential activities as required by grant agreements

● Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

● Bachelor's degree in agriculture, natural resource management, environmental sciences, or a related degree from an accredited college or university

● Ability to plan, schedule and prioritize workload

● Able to interpret and implement written and verbal directions

● Strong organizational skills

● Strong customer service skills

● Excellent verbal and written communication skills

● Ability to work independently without direct supervision and as part of a team

● Ability to work effectively outdoors in varying conditions and terrain

● Excellent social and interpersonal skills, and ability to relate effectively with diverse work groups and clientele

● Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends as necessary

● Proficient use of PC and Microsoft office suite

● Maintain a valid State of Michigan drivers’ license, reliable transportation, and willingness to travel in urban, suburban, and rural areas throughout Ingham and Livingston counties

● Must pass federal background check

Preferred Qualifications

● Two or more years experience in agriculture or natural resource fieldwork

● Experience using USDA software programs

● Working knowledge of GIS programs

● Knowledge, and experience working with agricultural producers and practices

● Experience working on and delivering educational programs to a variety of audiences

Compensation

Position is full-time (40 hours/week); grant funded at $23-$25 per hour based upon qualifications. Continuation beyond the fiscal year is contingent upon funding, which is renewed annually. Benefits include paid federal holidays, paid time off and a small benefit stipend. This work will be performed in the USDA-NRCS Mason Field office, and in the field during normal business hours, normally 8am-4:30pm Monday-Friday.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits: