Director of Soil and Water Conservation

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE:

Performs highly responsible professional, technical, and administrative work directing the County’s Soil and Water Conservation program. The Director provides leadership in delivering conservation services, environmental education, and resource management initiatives to protect and enhance Durham County’s natural resources and its rich agricultural heritage.

Work is performed under the general direction of the Deputy County Manager and the Durham Soil and Water Conservation District Board. The Director exercises full supervision over departmental staff and formulates long-range goals, develops policy recommendations, and collaborates with County leadership and elected officials.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of soil and water conservation in rural, suburban, and urban environments.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local guidelines, codes, ordinances, and regulations related to conservation and land development.
Knowledge of environmental planning, natural resource management, and best management practices.
Ability to plan, organize, and implement short- and long-range conservation programs.
Ability to develop policy recommendations and strategic planning documents.
Ability to analyze technical data and develop practical conservation solutions.
Ability to prepare and present reports, research findings, and recommendations in oral, written, and graphic formats.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with landowners, land users, elected officials, governmental agencies, community partners, and the public.
Ability to plan, direct, supervise, and evaluate the work of professional and technical staff.
Skill in the use of basic engineering and surveying equipment.
Ability to administer grants and manage program funding effectively.
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Science, Engineering, Earth Science, Conservation, Forestry, Biology, or a closely related field.
Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in natural resource conservation or related work. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Four years of supervisory experience required.

HIRING RANGE: $99,430 – $168,911

Tagged as: Science/Engineering