Program Specialist

STANDARD POSITION DESCRIPTION

Program Support Specialist
INTRODUCTION
This position is located in the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service office. The Program Support Specialist is employed by Southwestern NC RC&D Council, Inc. in Waynesville, NC. He or she performs a variety of support services for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
MAJOR DUTIES
Programmatic Support (70%)

Assists with entering and managing program applications and contract data into agency specific software programs and prepares software generated reports.

Provides a variety of information to program applicants and participants such as specific program and eligibility requirements, guidance on completion of required program application materials, and explanations regarding contract payment processes and paperwork requirements necessary for conservation program participation.

Assists with managing and processing conservation program applications and informs participant of eligibility requirements specific to Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation (HEL/WC) and Farm Tract Eligibility (FTE). Analyzes problems with applications and takes remedial actions. Monitors and tracks all stages of the application process.

Reviews participant signature authority documentation for all aspects of applications and contracting documents according to agency policy.

Assists with preparing application and contract administration letters and documents related to application status, status reviews, contract implementation, contract modifications, and potential cancellations or terminations. Maintains contract documents in case files according to agency policy.

Assembles documentation required to process approved NRCS certified conservation payments. Provides quality assurance that information on each document is complete per agency policy and guidelines. Processes payment applications, as assigned, within the agency specific software.

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Monitors and tracks all aspects of the conservation program applications, contracts, modifications, and payments for each participant to ensure implementation and

contract success.

Assists with all assigned functions related to financial and programmatic audits.

Contacts appropriate agency personnel to verify vendor codes in timely manner before processing payments in Protracts, and resolves discrepancies between Protracts and Financial Management Modernization Initiative (FMMI).

Acts as a liaison to resolve payment discrepancies and inquiries with landowners, District Conservationist, Assistant State Conservationist-Field Operations, Sate Office Financial Management Staff, Farm Service Agency, and Soil and Water Conservation District.

Uses a computer to process and analyze data to create, edit, print or retrieve files. Uses software, especially Protracts and Fund Manager, to create charts, tables, and/or spreadsheets.

Provides guidance, troubleshoots, and solves field office user issues using software applications such as Protracts, Fund Manager, and Microsoft Office.

Compiles or develops and maintains an Access database of all payment activity reporting to the field monthly all payments received, submitted by the Area Office, and certified by the State Office.

Performs other conservation program application and contract duties as assigned. Performs other duties required for program success.
Office Support (30%)
Organizes and maintains electronic and paper files and records, manuals, handbooks and other related materials, and applies disposition schedule. The employee labels and organizes files and records. Confidential records are kept secure in accordance with regulations.

Receives telephone calls and visitors, services requests for information available from files, schedules, business plan, or NRCS directives system. Refers callers and visitors directly to the supervisor or the appropriate staff member for questions not covered by policy or normal operating procedures.

Participates in selected meetings.

Prepares, reviews, and corrects outgoing correspondence and other documents for proper format, conformance with procedural instructions, correctness of grammar, typographical accuracy, and necessary attachments.

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Other
Performs duties in a manner supportive of Civil Rights policy without regard to political affiliation, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, age, handicap, or national origin.

Supports and participates in the broad spectrum of safety and health program activities. Complies with all appropriate safety and health rules and regulations in the performance of assigned tasks.

Works within a team concept to develop and implement ways to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of the products and/or services provided to internal and external customers. Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge Required by the Position
Knowledge of administrative concepts, principles, regulations, and practices in order to perform independently such duties as: performing budget-related tasks, fleet management, computer security, government travel, training, human resources support, and other administrative tasks.

Knowledge of the capabilities, operating characteristics, and advanced functions of a variety of types of office automation software, e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and Power Point; and knowledge of the similarities, differences and integration of the different software types in order to prepare reports, spreadsheets, correspondence, presentations, and perform other administrative support duties.

Knowledge of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and required formats in order to recognize and correct errors in correspondence, reports, some technical papers, practice standards, e-FOTG, and other complex materials.

Ability to communicate orally and in writing in order to exchange information, provide assistance, coordinate efforts, and work effectively with internal and external partners and customers.
Supervisory Controls
The employee works under the direction of the Assistant State Conservationist who makes assignments in terms of objectives, priorities, and deadlines. The employee works independently, drawing on a general understanding of the expected outcomes and the scope of the assignments, and draws upon experience when resolving most difficult situations that arise. The supervisor or subject-matter expert is available for guidance in unusually difficult situations or with issues that have not been previously encountered.

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Work is evaluated for technical accuracy, soundness of judgment, and adherence to program requirements and directives.
Complexity
Work consists of assignments that involve various steps, processes, and/or methods prior to final completion. The employee performs a full range of duties related to small purchases, fleet management, property, human resources, files management, correspondence, and other administrative duties. Use of automation involves many different types of software packages through a variety of applications. The work often requires different approaches and methods from one assignment to another.
Scope and Effect
The purpose of the work is to provide program support to the Natural Resources Conservation Service throughout the State. The work involves the execution of specific rules, regulations, procedures, and policies to perform all of the responsibilities of the position.

The work contributes to the efficiency of procedures, actions, and affects the accuracy and reliability of other processes. The work supports conservation program activities in the State.
Physical Demands
The work is primarily sedentary. There is some walking, standing, bending, and carrying of items such as books, supplies, and/or papers. No special physical demands are required to perform the work.
Work Environment
The work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts that require normal safety precautions typical of offices or similar settings.

I have read and understand this job description.

_______________________________________

Name

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.05 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20