Natural Resource Conservationist - Hybrid - 20% Remote

What You'll Be Doing

The Natural Resources Conservationist provides technical assistance in the planning, design and implementation of the conservation of natural resources. The position identifies potential problems, creates solution alternatives for urban stormwater, drainage issues and develops custom conservation plans for clients.

The Conservationist will design both agronomic and engineering conservation practices to address non-point source pollution for stormwater retrofits. This position will be primarily responsible for the administration of the Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP), Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program (StRAP), Beaver Management Assistance Program (BMAP) and preparing grant applications for Soil and Water projects. This position will work with both state and federal cost share programs and will be responsible for writing contracts, project oversight and certifying installed conservation practices meet certain standards and specifications for cost share payment reimbursement.

The Conservationist will manage grant progress and complete all reports. This position will also serve on various local, state or national boards to provide technical oversight and guidance to improve water quality.

Essential Functions:

• Understanding and knowledge of stormwater best management practices and can evaluate and make recommendations to solve stormwater related problems

• Basic understanding of stream classification and watershed delineation

• Understands project management oversight on design, installation and certification of stormwater best management practices particularly stream restoration, streambank stabilization and stormwater wetlands

• Must be comfortable in both office and outdoor settings that include working in remote areas, various weather conditions, stream riparian areas during project construction with heavy equipment

• Works effectively with the department and external partners, both independently and in a team environment

• Must be proficient in reading aerial photos, topographic maps, soil surveys, plats and survey design plans

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite Programs and provides excellent customer service to Wake County residents

NOTE: This position offers a 20% hybrid work schedule with the option to either work remotely from home or in the field. A Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record required.

About Our Team

The staff of the Wake District are skilled and talented professionals with a passion for soil and water conservation. The staff is dedicated to excellent customer service. We are a purpose driven organization with goals to protect Wake County's natural resources through voluntary implementation of conservation practices, farmland preservation, delivery of environmental education and coordination of volunteer clean up events.

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Studies or related field

• Two years of experience in natural resource conservation activities

• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record

• Equivalent education and experience are accepted

• Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Bachelor of Science Degree in the natural resource field of soils, geology, forestry, hydrology, wildlife ecology, natural resource management or environmental science

• Two years of practical work experience in the use and management of natural resources

• Experience with GIS, ArcPRO, GPS or survey equipment and surveying

• Two years of experience in stormwater management

• One year of experience preparing, writing and managing grants

• Experience with the Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP)

• Job Approval Authority (JAA) issued by either Natural Resource Conservation Service or NC Division of Soil and Water Conservation

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

• Knowledge of stormwater best management practices and the ability to evaluate and make recommendations to solve stormwater related problems

• Knowledge and experience in writing, applying and administering grants

• Must have good organizational, written and verbal communications skills

• Ability to work with limited direct supervision and make decisions accurately and rapidly

• Ability to read aerial photos, topographic maps, soil surveys, plats and survey design plans

About This Position

Location: Agriculture Services Building Raleigh, NC 27610

Employment Type: Regular

Work Schedule: Mon

• Fri, 8:00am

• 5:00pm

Hiring Range: 23.47 - 31.68

Market Range: 26.33 - 44.76

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 9/30/2024

What Makes Wake Great

Equal Opportunity Statement

Background Check Statement

Emergency Service Worker Statement

What Makes Wake Great

Home to the State Capital, Wake County is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation and the most populous county in the state, with more than 1.1 million residents. The County has received national and international rankings and accolades from publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time magazines as being one of the best places to live, work and play. The central location of the County allows for a short drive to the spectacular mountains or coast. Wake County Government is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners, who are elected at-large to serve two-year terms. Wake County Government has a general operating budget of $1.874 billion, employs over 4400 employees, experiences minimal turnover, and is an award-winning leader in wellness and technology initiatives; such as offering employees and covered spouses free access to the Employee Health Center. Wake County Government offers a wide range of training and development opportunities, a stable career in public service with a balance of work and family life, flexible work schedules and a competitive salary and benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Background Check Statement

Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Emergency Service Worker Statement

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.