What are the responsibilities and job description for the Conservation Technician position at Holston River Soil and Water Conservation District?
Conservation Technician with Education Duties. The Conservation Technician with Education duties will assist HRSWCD in carrying out the objectives in the Strategic Plan and Annual Plan of Work of the Holston River SWCD. This position will aid the district in the implementation of the BMP (VACS) cost share program, assist with conservation farm planning, and provide assistance with the educational programs (both youth and adult) at HRSWCD. A Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Conservation, Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management or a related degree of study is preferred. A valid driver’s license is required. Engineering Job Approval Authority and Conservation Planning Certification through the VA Department of Conservation and Recreation is required and must be obtained within 24 months of initial employment.
Duties
1. Technical Support and Project Development
a. Has capable knowledge of Holston River SWCD programs, including but not limited to Agricultural and Residential Programs.
b. Has working knowledge of Tracking Program.
c. Assist with the education Specialist with the planning of the Annual SWCD Awards Banquet.
d. Responsible for ensuring that all VACS Program and CREP applications and contracts are accurately entered into the VA BMP Tracking Program.
e. Obtain information and related basic field data needed for the evaluation, design, and layout of conservation practices.
f. Complete surveys for design and layout of practices. Ability to perform mathematical calculations necessary in the design of best management practices. Ability to interpret and correlate information from maps such as topographic, soils, hydrologic units, etc.
g. Ability to use computer software programs, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and GIS.
h. Provide a minimum of 12 hours/week of conservation technical assistance or other field activities outside of the office
i. Implement the TMDL Residential Septic Pump out and Repair program
2. Education
a. Foster and maintain a working relationship with the Washington County Public School System.
b. Develop and implement environmental education programs in Washington County classrooms.
c. Prepare and distribute at least annually environmental education program publicity materials to Washington County educators.
d. Develop and maintain the Holston River SWCD Environmental Education Resource Library.
e. Assist the education specialist to coordinate the Envirothon Education Program at the local level. Cooperatively work with local team(s), coach(es), etc.
f. Provide environmental education materials to the Washington County Public School System and other interested parties.
g. Promote and distribute information for VASWCD Educational Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Program, Holston River SWCD Scholarship Program, and other scholarships, as appropriate.
h. Promote other youth conservation efforts as they arise throughout the fiscal year.
i. Assist the Senior Education Staff in lieu of an Education Specialist with the planning of farm field day
j. Participate in training opportunities specific to environmental education.
3. Other Assigned Duties
a. Attend special meetings as requested by the board.
b. Maintain an accurate Time and Attendance Sheet and submit bi-monthly.
c. Adhere to policies outlined in current Holston River SWCD Personnel Policy.
d. Carry out other duties as assigned by SWCD Board.
This position is full-time with benefits, including health insurance, retirement, annual and sick leave, paid holidays, and a casual work environment.
Anticipated hiring range is $37,765-$60,416 depending on experience and education.
Board of Directors is ultimately responsible for this employee. Applicants must submit a VA State Application for Employment – Form 10-012, a resume, and a cover letter. Applications may be mailed to Holston River SWCD, 448 Commerce Drive, Abingdon, VA 24211 or emailed to Amy Vance at amy.vance@hrswcd.org, District Manager. For information or questions please call (276) 525-6685. This position will remain open until July 17th, 2026.
The hiring salary range is based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include: Virginia Retirement System, health/dental insurance, leave benefits, as well as other fringe benefits. A Virginia Driver’s License is required. References, background check, drug testing may also be requested as part of the hiring process. Holston River Soil & Water Conservation District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $37,765.00 - $60,416.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Salary : $37,765 - $60,416