Conservation Program Specialist

SUMMARY

The Conservation Program Specialist (CPS) is responsible for implementing and overseeing the Indiana County Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP) and the Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road (DGLVR) Program. This position provides technical assistance, program coordination, and field support to ensure the successful delivery of conservation practices and projects that improve soil health, water quality, and road sustainability. The CPS works directly with landowners, municipalities, and partner organizations to evaluate project needs, develop environmentally sensitive solutions, oversee construction and installation, and ensure compliance with program guidelines.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ACAP RESPONSIBILITIES (Estimated 45% of time):

• Provide information to interested persons on financial assistance and technical assistance programs supporting the implementation of best management practices identified in nutrient management, manure management, agricultural erosion and sediment control (Ag E&S), and conservation plans.
• Advise applicants of alternative funding sources for project implementation, such as tax credits, loans, and grants
• Coordinate an ongoing grant program, including providing applications to interested applicants, reviewing applications for completeness, determining eligibility based on ranking criteria, and recommending projects for funding to the ICCD Board of Directors
• Assist in nutrient management, manure management, Ag E&S, and conservation plan implementation by providing or facilitating, as resources allow, general technical assistance to program participants with approved plans. Technical assistance may include inventory and evaluation; developing or assisting in the development of designs; cost estimates; construction monitoring; and certification of the proposed project(s).
• Complete and provide the SCC with financial and written quarterly reports that summarize the activities performed during the report period, including education and outreach, the number of grant applications received and processed, and technical assistance provided to program applicants.
• Collect and report data pertaining to Ag E&S plans, conservation plans, manure management plans, nutrient management plans, and best management practice implementation completed under approved projects using PracticeKeeper or other approved reporting systems.

DGLVR Program Responsibilities (45% of time):

• Fully administer all aspects of the Indiana County DGLVR program in accordance with the current PA State Conservation Commission Administrative Manual.
• Conduct pre-application site visits for potential projects; provide technical assistance to applicants during grant preparation.
• Present grant applications to Quality Assurance Board (QAB) for prioritizing and ranking projects.
• Monitor projects through on-site inspections to ensure practices are properly installed and maintained.
• Communicate with municipal officials and other public road owners as needed for program promotion and project management.
• Coordinate educational & outreach activities for the program – examples include field trips, product or BMP demonstrations, workshops, etc.
• Maintain GIS online database for quarterly and annual reporting in accordance with current SCC administrative manual.

OTHER CRITICAL FUNCTIONS (10% of time):

• Maintain all appropriate records for all grants and delegated programs including quarterly reporting and reimbursement requests
• Assist with demonstration projects, field days, and tours
• Assist other District staff with the Indiana County Envirothon, training events, workshops, field days, and other educational activities
• Work to promote a “District team concept” by assisting in various other related functions, activities and programs of the District
• Prepare monthly activity report for and attend the Board of Directors' meeting
• Assist other District staff with projects/programs as needed
• Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Associates degree in agriculture, agronomy, environmental studies, natural resource management, engineering, or similar area of study OR possess a combination of applicable education, training and experience that is equivalent to a 2-year degree or greater.
• Nutrient Management Certification preferred but not required
• Knowledge of soil and water conservation issues, land use practices, innovative planning techniques, best management practices (BMPs) and applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules and regulations.
• Ability to read and interpret administrative procedures manuals, technical literature, topographic maps, contracts, engineering plans, bid documents, cost estimates, construction standards and specifications.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals and groups, both verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge of computer word processing, spreadsheet, and database and the ability to operate computers.
• Experience with ArcGIS preferred but not mandatory.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to oversee all phases of a construction project from planning through final certification.
• Possess a valid driver's license and safely operate motor vehicle while carrying out assigned duties.
• Possess a reliable vehicle that can be utilized for field work purposes daily. Mileage will be reimbursed at the State rate.

WORK CONDITIONS

The position will require both field and office work. Field work will require your own transportation and the ability to work in all weather conditions. The office environment will require the ability and tolerance to work in an office building with other employees.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITIONS

The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job and encourages both prospective employees and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the District. The Indiana County Conservation District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Must be able to sit for long periods throughout the workday, with occasional periods of standing, walking, bending, twisting, balancing, crouching, kneeling, and reaching necessary to carry out the duties of the job.
• Dexterity requirements range from simple to coordinated movements of fingers/hands/arms, feet/legs, and torso necessary to carry out the duties of the job.
• Occasional lifting/carrying of objects with a maximum weight of fifty pounds.
• Must be able to cope with the physical and mental stress of the position.
• Must be able to move frequently throughout the workday.
• Must be able to pay close attention to details and concentrate on work.
• Must possess the ability to record, convey, and present information, explain procedures, and follow instructions.

WORK SCHEDULE/COMPENSATION

Successful candidates will work under a 6-month probationary period.

Salary starts at $42,000 with an automatic increase to $47,000 after successful completion of the six-month probationary period. The District will consider relevant experience and education when making a determination on the starting salary for any particular candidate. While not guaranteed, the District is currently offering an additional $6,000 in annual retention bonuses paid out on quarterly installments to all full-time District employees.

The District offers a competitive benefits package including Health, Dental, and Vision (100% employer covered premiums) with an employer contribution to an HSA (currently $4,300 for an individual divided into 12 monthly contributions); pension with a minimum 5% (currently contributing 10%) employer contribution (5 year vesting); generous offering of 16 paid Holidays; two personal days; two weeks accrued vacation to start (graduated based on years of service); generous sick leave accrual; 12 weeks paid parental leave after meeting eligibility requirements; and a tuition/student loan reimbursement program.

Normal workweek is 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, including a 1 hour paid lunch period with occasional evening and weekend hours as special conditions, meetings or projects arise. Flexible scheduling is available after successful completion of a probationary period.