Conservation Agent

Overview
Hinsdale, a small rural town in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, seeks a practical, skilled conservation agent. Reporting directly to the Town Administrator and appointed by the Select Board, the Conservation Agent serves the Conservation Commission, town officials, and all other interested parties on wetlands protection, natural resource conservation, and environmental permitting in Hinsdale. The Conservation Agent implements the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c.131 §40), the Rivers Protection Act, regulations (310 CMR 10.00), and local wetlands bylaws.

This role offers conservation work in a rural community, which can include forests, streams, wetlands, and modest home projects. The conservation agent can focus on rigorous review, fieldwork, and consultation with applicants and local boards due to moderate permitting volume. The town welcomes applicants doing similar part-time work in other area municipalities.

Responsibilities

• Administer and enforce the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and local wetlands bylaws.
• Review and process regulatory filings, including Requests for Determination of Applicability, Notices of Intent, and Abbreviated Notices of Resource Area Delineation.
• Conduct site inspections, wetlands resource evaluations, and compliance monitoring.
• Prepare draft Orders of Conditions, Determinations, Certificates of Compliance, and enforcement documentation.
• Investigate complaints and potential violations and coordinate enforcement actions when necessary.
• Provide technical guidance to property owners, applicants, engineers, and consultants regarding wetlands permitting requirements.
• Prepare meeting materials and reports, and attend evening meetings of the Conservation Commission.
• Maintain permit files, records, and regulatory documentation.
• Coordinate with state agencies, including the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program (NHESP), when applicable.
• Assist with monitoring town-owned conservation lands and conservation restrictions as requested.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology, biology, natural resources, environmental planning, or a similar bachelor's degree is required. However, relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of formal education.
• The candidate should know the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and regulations.
• Wetland delineation, environmental permitting, land-use regulation, and municipal conservation administration experience are desirable.
• An understanding of site plans, engineering drawings, and environmental studies is crucial.
• The candidate needs excellent writing and speaking skills.
• The candidate can perform field inspections in various weather and terrain.
• The candidate must be a licensed driver.

Pay: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Application Question(s):

• Do you have the ability to perform field inspections year round ?
• Do you have a valid driver's license?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $26 - $30