Soil Conservationist Director – (Soil & Water)

DEPARTMENT: Soil & Water Conservation

SALARY: Grade 66                                        $24.7672-$37.1508  Hourly / $51,515.88 -$77,273.56 Annually

OPENING DATE: March 27, 2024                             CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

The purpose of the position is to perform technical, administrative, and supervisory duties in coordinating the services for the overall conservation program and the day-to-day operation and management of the Soil Conservation Department.  Position is responsible for maintaining working relationships with land owners/users, Boards, staff members and representatives of Federal, State, and local agencies and organizations; compiling and preparing a variety of reports and records; directing/supervising staff on policy and administration; and attend training sessions, meetings, and workshops required of the position to keep abreast of programs, policies, and regulations.  Perform related work as required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Serve as the designated department head and Clerk to the Duplin Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors; Provide daily supervision of County staff; administer departmental budget utilizing county, state and federal monies as applicable; Coordinate annual maintenance inspections on watershed projects and insure follow up maintenance. Research and apply for various grants; Monitor and perform compliance reviews of existing grants; Prepare request for proposal advertisements and various maintenance contracts.; Monitor contracts and prepare/process pay requests as work is completed and approved; Conduct employee performance evaluations; Review/certify bi-weekly time and attendance sheets. Responsible for assisting with the Memorandum of Understanding and objectives; Develop the Annual Plan of Work/Strategy Plan in consultation with the Board of Supervisors/District Conservationist; Serve as custodian of official documents, contracts, project agreements, various conservation easements, and assure follow up as required. Coordinates the Beaver Management Assistance Program (BMAP) between landowners. Prepare invoice billing to landowners and collect payments for BMAP services and Geotextile materials. Coordinate education programs for schools on various conservation programs. Prepare geographic information systems (GIS) maps; prepare waste utilization and nutrient management plans and conduct conservation surveys using GPS and laser leveling equipment.

Marginal Functions Answers the telephone and directs inquiries to appropriate staff or departments; Receives inquiries and provides information on the programs and services available; Arranges meetings and facilities; and schedules appointments as appropriate; Requisitions supplies and equipment as needed; Compose and draft correspondence and reports; Data entry on landowner information and budget accounts; Maintains filing system as necessary; Performs related duties as necessary. Maintains receipt books and makes deposits as needed.  

Job Requirements and Qualifications

Education & Experience:  A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration/Management; Conservation, Forestry, Soil Science, Environmental Education, Biology, Waste Management or other related field supplemented by one (1) or two (2) years previous experience and/or training. A two- year technical degree in one of these fields may be considered if applicant has an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Certifications: Obtain Nutrient Management Certification, Ag Pest Plant Pesticide License, Technical Specialist Designation and Notary Public.

Skills and Abilities: Computer skills and the ability to use Geographical Information Systems (ArcGIS); Grant Writing, Ability to use Survey Equipment such as Total Station and laser levels as needed for Conservation Surveys.

Special Requirements:  Federal Background checks are required of the position as it relates to Homeland Security and the use of federal computer system. In accordance with the county’s drug free workplace policy, employees will be subject to pre-employment and random drug screening. Limited attendance at night meetings or weekend activities may be necessary.  Travel outside the office and the county on behalf of the county for meetings and trainings.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS must be able to lift 50 lbs. and endure physical challenges such riding in a small boat to inspect creeks and walking on unlevel ground WORKING CONDITIONS include limited exposure to extreme weather which could include rain/cold/heat and possible exposure to snakes and mosquitos.Personal Protective Equipment may include but not limited to wearing snake chaps and boots, hard hats and life jackets.

All employees should possess a valid North Carolina driver’s license.  All employees may be requested to perform other duties as assigned. All employees may be required to assist county operations during a State of Emergency, disaster or other county event.