Conservation Agronomist

The Pipestone Soil and Water Conservation District is seeking to fill a newly created Conservation Agronomist position. As a Conservation Agronomist, you will play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and implementing conservation strategies. Your expertise in agronomy and conservation will contribute to the development and execution of effective land management plans. This is an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment and support the agricultural community.

Duties:
– Conduct soil analysis and assessments to determine soil health and fertility levels
– Develop and implement conservation plans to improve soil quality, water management, and biodiversity
– Provide technical guidance to farmers on sustainable farming practices, including crop rotation, cover cropping, and integrated pest management
– Collaborate with farmers, landowners, and agricultural organizations to promote soil health and conservation practices
– Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation initiatives through data collection and analysis
– Stay up to date with advancements in agronomy, conservation practices, and relevant regulations
– Assist in grant writing and securing funding for conservation projects

Qualifications:
– Agronomy, or related educational background
– Proven experience in agronomy or conservation agriculture
– Strong knowledge of soil science, crop and livestock production, and sustainable farming practices.
– Effective communication skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders
– Ability to work independently as well as part of a team

Forester

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is seeking qualified candidates for a forester. This is a cooperative position between the NWTF and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and will be responsible for administering, implementing and promoting forestry improvements through NRCS technical assistance programs on private lands in the Southwest Colorado. This is a full-time, term limited position. Duty station will be in the Durango, Colorado NRCS field office

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WORK

The forester position assists partners in promoting management of privately owned forested lands and riparian communities for multiple resource benefits, including forest & riparian health, wildlife habitat, fuels reduction and water quality. The forester provides forestry assistance to private landowners, communities and public agencies to achieve optimum environmental, economic and social benefits from forest resources. In addition, the forester will implement silvicultural practices and deliver technical assistance and financial assistance programs under the direction of NRCS. The forester provides forestry assistance to private landowners to achieve optimum environmental, economic and social benefits from forest resources. In addition, the forester will prescribe and monitor silvicultural practices and deliver technical assistance and financial assistance programs under the direction of NRCS.

DUTIES

· Provide multiple resource management planning that addresses significant forest and riparian health concerns on private lands through the delivery of technical assistance and available federal and state financial assistance programs

· Develop and provide recommendations for working in forest stands and riparian areas to ensure these critical habitats are included in private lands management planning

· Work with local conservation districts to identify and plan multi-partner landscape level conservation projects

· Provide expertise related to management of wildlife habitat beneficial to wild turkeys, elk, deer and other wildlife species with emphasis placed on forest health, including forest thinning, invasive species control, proper grazing regimes and riparian improvements

· Prepare and monitor forest management plans based on accepted silvicultural practices Conduct T&E reviews for NEPA/ESA compliance on Farm Bill program projects

· Prepare forest management project contracts, providing specifications and prescriptions for forest management activities appropriate to the region

· Develop and deliver innovative forest management techniques to landowners and cooperators through workshops, written materials, field days and educational programs

· Provide internal review and input as requested on need, purpose and design during all stages of USDA-NRCS program forest management project planning and implementation

· Provide or participate in trainings or presentations related to forestry, wildlife, conservation planning certification and other topics associated with natural resource management

· Promote awareness and collaboration of state, federal and local conservation programs and planning, and acquire project support through engagement with conservation organizations, local conservation groups, industry and local communities

· Other functions as assigned by supervisor

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Preferred candidates will possess experience working in the forest ecosystems, riparian communities and a working knowledge of wild turkeys, forest wildlife and their habitat requirements. Knowledge of forest entomology, pathology, forest management and planning for major silvicultural types of the region is required. Familiarity with NEPA & ESA and a working knowledge of basic surveying principles, map reading and GIS/GPS technology, ArcGIS skills and the ability to apply professional scientific techniques to the land for which responsibilities are assigned is required. The forester will possess the ability to effectively cooperate with private landowners, the general public, cooperators and their peers. The position requires the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in written form, to convey clear and persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Demonstrated knowledge of forest & riparian community management techniques

· Strong organizational skills and capability to work independently with little direct supervision

· Strong written and verbal communication skills

· Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from a SAF-Accredited Program or other natural resource degree with a strong forestry emphasis, or relevant experience (Applicants with a Master’s degree in forestry or education/experience in wildlife management are preferred). Applicants within two months of graduating with a degree as listed must secure degree before date of hire.

· Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS

Applicant must be able and willing to:

· Work alone in a diverse range of climatic and topographic conditions including extreme hot and cold temperatures, biting insects, snakes, possibly in remote areas with limited access and amenities and other extreme conditions as warranted

· Walk several miles per day in the conditions described above and drive and/or ride long distances frequently.

Salary range is $54,757 to $77,304 per year and includes an excellent benefits package.

Resource Conservationist

The Berks County Conservation District is looking for qualified applicants to fill the Resource Conservationist position, this is a full-time, permanent position with benefits.

Resource Conservationists are responsible for implementing several state delegated regulatory programs that include, but are not limited to, Chapter 92 (NPDES), Chapter 102 (Erosion Control) and Chapter 105 (Waterway Management).

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities –

Review Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control Plans to determine their compliance with the requirements of Chapter 102 and generate review letters as a part of the review process
Conduct inspections of project sites to determine compliance and document site observations on official inspection reports
Respond to complaints and document site observations
Process permit applications under the Chapter 92, Chapter 102, and Chapter 105 programs. •Initiate and participate in enforcement proceedings
Maintain files in accordance with delegated requirements
Respond to requests for information, education, and technical assistance
As well as other duties, tasks and special projects as assigned

Requirements:

Bachelors Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering or related field
An equivalent combination of education and experience may qualify at the discretion of the Berks County Conservation District
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
This position requires working with the public, strong verbal and written communication skills are essential

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $38,000.00 – $55,000.00 per year

Conservation Technician

Description

This position provides a variety of technical and administrative assistance support to programs and activities of the Renville County SWCD. Oversee local implementation of the Minnesota Buffer Law, Reinvest in Minnesota Program, and Wetland Conservation Act of the SWCD. Complete assigned tasks that benefit the mission of the Renville County SWCD.
Essential Duties

Oversee the Reinvest in Minnesota Program, and other conservation easement programs
Oversee the Minnesota Buffer Law, Wetland Conservation Act, and other regulatory programs as directed
Assist SWCD staff with all duties assigned by the Resource Conservationist or District Administrator
Conduct program inspection and monitoring duties
Performs technical work, according to the NRCS Technical Guide and within ecological Job Approval Authority, without detailed instructions, after adequate training.
Promotes the conservation philosophy of the District, as outlined in the Strategic Plan.
Oversee and perform the duties associated with the Renville County Rain Garden ordnances.
Grant tracking, reporting and time management.
Obtain and maintain UAS Drone pilot certificate (small, unmanned aircraft systems)
Drill rental program and Shed Maintenance
Report time and tasks completed to the Resource Conservationist and District Administration as directed
Handle various administrative and reception duties
These duties describe the general nature and level of work being performed by this position and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties performed. Other duties may and will be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are a representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:
Bachelor’s degree with a major emphasis in biological or environmental science, soil science, geology, or equivalent field preferred; OR a two-year college degree in biological or environmental science or equivalent field plus applicable experience in related field OR equivalent work experience in related field/agency. Must be a USDA Certified Conservation Planner with relevant Job Approval Authority (JAA) or achieve within two years of hire date.

Marine Biology Technician

The Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute (UCI) seeks applicants for the position of Marine Biology Technician to support activities associated with UCI’s Natural and Nature Based Solutions for Naval Facility and Coastal Community Resilience research program. Under the supervision of the Associate Director, the Marine Biology Technician will work with UCI staff and partners to oversee and operate the UCI’s aquaculture facility at Naval Weapons Station Earle, deploy seeded oyster reef units in the Raritan and Sandy Hook Bays, and perform ecological monitoring for species diversity, water quality, oyster growth and mortality, oyster recruitment, and the efficacy of various living shoreline techniques.

This position is a grant-funded, full-time, two-year position. The successful candidate will be required to work on the campus of Monmouth University in West Long Branch, NJ and have the ability to travel to and work at the UCI’s Aquaculture Facility at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Leonardo, NJ. The candidate must be able to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance to work on the naval facility. The position is anticipated to start as soon as possible.

REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in marine biology, marine science, or a closely related field in estuarine and/or coastal ecology, and/or environmental science.
Four (4) years of related experience.
Experience in the conduct of marine field sampling; field water quality sampling techniques; data analysis; and reporting of scientific results.
The ability to travel to and from the research site and an understanding and agreement of Monmouth University’s Vehicle Use Policy for Private Drivers (Section IV, D: Use of Private Vehicles)
Able to pass a Department of Defense security clearance.
A valid driver’s license in your state of residence and with less than three (3) violations or at-fault accidents within the past three (3) years.
Physically able to lift up to 40 pounds.

Environmental Program Manager

As the Surface Water Protection Section Manager, you will coach your team of unit managers and help assist them in managing their teams. You will review projects and procedures to implement program and operational improvements; assist in the development of goals and strategies; develop policies and procedures related to Clean Water Act permitting, enforcement, compliance, monitoring, and/or scientific studies; ensure that operations meet established timeframes and objectives; provide guidance and interpretation of federal and state laws/regulations.

DUTIES:
• Personnel Management: Directs a Section composed of two diverse Units and ensures the activities of Section employees result in consistent work products in compliance with applicable requirements, goals, and timeframes.
• Experience working to professionally develop direct reports.
• Program Goals and Performance Measurements: Leads the development and prioritization of Section policies, needs, and goals while measuring outputs and mission outcomes.
• Develops Section strategy and strategic plan in consultation with the Deputy Division Director and Division Director.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Knowledge of leadership and business management principles, including budgets (expenditure and revenue generations), employee motivation, team-based problem-solving techniques, and principles of performance and visual management; Project management and program management techniques, particularly the coordination of people and resources through result-driven leadership.
• Knowledge of State and Federal environmental regulations (emphasis on Clean Water Act), the causes, control and mitigation of environmental pollution, enforcement procedures, and legal protocols.
• Ability to coordinate multiple ongoing projects and priorities effectively, meet deadlines, and manage multiple sources of funding.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and guide individuals or teams toward achieving common goals.

PREFERENCES:
• Bachelors degree in environmental science, environmental management, business management, environmental or chemical engineering, chemistry, biology, hydrology, geology, or a related field five (5) years of environmental experience working in a regulatory agency, consulting, and/or private industry.
• Five (5) years of leadership/supervisory experience in an environmental, regulatory, or industrial setting.
• Experience with continuous improvement, including LEAN, Six Sigma, and others.

Habitat Restoration Specialist

The mission of American Bird Conservancy (ABC) is to conserve birds and their habitats – the places birds need to thrive – across the Americas. We are a growing group of 125+ dedicated staff, located across the United States and with a network of partners from Canada to Chile. Each year, we grow in budget and staff, and we deliver more results aimed at preventing bird species extinctions and reversing declines that are reducing populations of nearly all bird groups. Our work is guided by our principles, which include a commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI).

This position will foster the mutual conservation objectives of the RGJV, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife and other partners by enhancing wildlife habitat in streams and uplands of the Chihuahuan Desert. This position contributes to the goals and objectives of the Texas Conservation Action Plan, the National Fish Conservation Area in the Chihuahuan Desert, and national and international bird conservation plans by working closely with RGJV, American Bird Conservancy (ABC), and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff and other partner organizations to provide technical and financial assistance related to habitat enhancement and restoration.

Major Duties:

Apply hydrologic principles to grassland and stream restoration projects;
Establish, improve, and maintain grassland habitats and riparian zones;
Conduct outreach to landowners and partners and advise/recommend/support restoration and/or habitat management and improvement projects;
Conduct data collection, reduction and reporting of stream characterization or monitoring data;
Implement a low-tech, process-based stream restoration plan on cooperating private land as well as public lands that includes but is not limited to siting and laying out in-stream structures, and supervising the construction of in-stream structures;
Operate appropriate heavy equipment in support of the implementation of stream restoration or wildlife habitat management plans;
Lend technical assistance to partners with respect to stream restoration techniques and construction upon request;
Coordinate and aid in preparation of appropriate permits for stream restoration and habitat management activities;
Candidates will often work outdoors, in relatively difficult weather conditions
Job will require wading in streams, walking on uneven terrain, manual labor, working in close proximity of large heavy equipment, odd hours, and travel/time away from home.
Required to travel up to 50% with possible overnight stays.
Driving to sites may require maneuvering over steep, uneven terrain along rivers and streams;
Manual labor often required, including lifting supplies and materials up to 40 lbs.;
May be required to operate a State vehicle;

Qualifications:

A fundamental knowledge of hydrology, environmental, agriculture and/or natural resource science.
Excellent computer skills and ability to use databases and specialized software;
Ability to communicate and interact effectively and professionally with private landowners, land managers, advisory boards, universities, consultants, governmental and nongovernmental organizations, as well as the general public;
Knowledge of grassland and/or riparian ecology and research issues;
Ability to design and write habitat management plans;
Skill in reviewing, analyzing, and presenting technical data and documents;
Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare written correspondence;
Ability to provide site investigations, sampling and analysis to determine restoration plans;
Ability to work independently with little or no supervision;
Experience working with and around light and heavy equipment or machinery: excavators, track trucks, dump trucks, skid steers, and farm tractors;
Experience or ability to operate power hand tools such as gasoline powered chain saws, drills, chainsaws, cutoff saws, etc.;
Master’s degree, preferably in hydrology, environmental engineering, geology, environmental science, range science, or closely related field in natural resources management, or bachelor’s degree with equivalent experience;
Some experience with on-the-ground conservation planning and implementation preferred;
Experience in one or more of the following areas: hydrology, environmental engineering, ecosystem restoration or environmental planning in private, government, or academic arenas;
Desire to improve habitat conditions and overall health and wellbeing of our environment;
Applicant must possess a valid State driver’s license. CDL a plus.
Background screening required
Position open to US Citizens or Permanent Residents

Lecturer, Forestry and Natural Resources

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment invites applications for a Lecturer in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, which is a 12-month non-tenure eligible position in support of the Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) undergraduate degree program. The anticipated annual distribution of effort is 80% instruction, 15% for co-curricular and administrative activities in support of the NRES undergraduate degree program, as well as 5% service to the college, university, and profession.
The NRES undergraduate degree program is interdisciplinary and provides student with the knowledge, skills, and ï¬eld experiences necessary for a career in environmental science, natural resource management, environmental consulting, or other types of environmental work. The program is tailorable to students’ interests and career goals allowing for a choice of concentrations in analysis and environmental systems. The NRES undergraduate degree program has grown by over 30% in the past three years and is presently the sixth largest undergraduate major in the college. In addition to instruction, this position will serve as the Director of Undergraduate Studies and will support the program through efforts associated with recruitment, advising, career and professional development mentorship, retention, and assessment.
The anticipated start date is July 1, 2024.
Qualiï¬cations:
PhD in Environmental Science, Forestry, Natural Resources, or similar is required. Preference will be given to candidates with college or university teaching experience. Qualiï¬cations include strong oral and written English communication skills; strong organizational skills; commitment to diverse, inclusive, high- quality undergraduate education and advising; and a strong commitment to student recruitment. The ability to work in collaborative, interdisciplinary, and cross-functional environments with other faculty, external stakeholders, as well as public, private, and governmental agencies is essential.
Location:
Lexington, KY with domestic and potentially international travel in support of the program

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests Project Coordinator

National Forest Foundation (NFF) is pleased to offer a full-time, exempt, term position (3 years) that will manage the development and implementation of collaborative forest management projects on the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest (GMUG) in western Colorado. The position is funded for up to three years.

About the NFF: The NFF works with communities and organizations to conserve and enhance the watersheds, wildlife habitat, wild places, and recreational opportunities across the 193-million-acre National Forest System. The NFF seeks to engage all Americans in this work.

Position Function: The GMUG National Forests Project Coordinator reports directly to the Rocky Mountain Region Program Manager and works closely with other Rocky Mountain Region field staff to cooperatively plan, develop, and implement priority projects on the GMUG National Forests, with an initial focus on National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) planning and collaborative cross-boundary wildlife habitat improvement and fuels reduction projects. Specific initial efforts will include the Southern Uncompahgre Hazardous Fuels and Ecological Resiliency project and the Baldy Mountain Wildlife Improvement and Landscape Resiliency project. This work requires close coordination with the U.S. Forest Service, other federal agencies, community organizations, and implementation partners to accomplish identified goals and activities.

Position Duties and Responsibilities: The GMUG Project Coordinator will:

  • Coordinate with the U.S. Forest Service and partners to implement scopes of work for large-scale forest health improvement projects.
  • Support NEPA processes and collaborative cross-boundary landscape projects including planning, implementation, facilitation, coordination, and financial management.
  • Lead advertisement, negotiation, and award of multiple contracts for services related to environmental planning and on-the-ground implementation of projects.
  • Work directly with contractors, consultants, nonprofit organizations, and agency partners to advance the planning and implementation of projects effectively and efficiently.
  • Oversee projects through their full life cycle – project initiation, planning, managing schedules, tracking budgets, site management, quality assurance, and safety. Serve as the NFF’s on-the-ground point of contact for daily project management needs.
  • Manage service agreements, invoices, and finances for relevant GMUG projects.
  • Work with the U.S. Forest Service to help develop, modify, manage, and track large-scale Participating Agreements and Challenge Cost Share Agreements associated with projects.
  • Work with NFF staff to solicit funds from government sources, foundations, corporations, and individuals to support all aspects of project preparation, implementation, and oversight.
  • Manage budgets and reporting associated with grants from federal, state, and local government sources, as well as philanthropic support from corporations, foundations, and individuals. Prepare associated grant and funding reports.
  • Work with NFF staff to communicate project needs and the community benefits and accomplishments.
  • Conduct ongoing communication with partners on the status of project planning, implementation, and project successes.
  • Maintain a breadth of knowledge about current trends, emerging issues, policy interventions, and innovations in the field of conservation programming to enhance the NFF strategic efficacy.
  • Serve as a point of contact for the NFF conservation activities on and near the GMUG.
  • Assist as necessary with the NFF program of work in the Rocky Mountain Region, which may include the management of diverse, short-term projects.

Location: The location for this position is in a community near the GMUG National Forest in western Colorado including but not limited to: Grand Junction, Montrose, Gunnison, Delta, Norwood, Ouray, or Paonia and requires regular travel to the National Forest Offices. Relocation support may be available. This position is a work-from-home position and requires reliable internet access and a dedicated workspace.

Compensation: The NFF offers competitive compensation and benefits and has recently implemented a new compensation program as part of our commitment to transparency. The salary range for this position will be in the $63,280 to $79,326 range and may be eligible for locality adjustment. Please note that the indicated salary range describes the full range for an incumbent in this position. Most new staff generally start at the 35th percentile of the range percentile to ensure internal salary equity.

To Apply: Applicants must include both a cover letter and resume. Incomplete packages will not be considered. Position is open until filled.

The National Forest Foundation is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes a diverse pool of candidates in this search. For more information about the National Forest Foundation, visit the website at: www.nationalforests.org

Restoration Ecologist

As the Restoration Ecologist, you will participate in technical working groups, review technical documents, and make recommendations related to the assessment of injury to Hudson River watershed natural resources. You will assist in the evaluation of potential assessments and restoration projects statewide. Additionally, you will assist in reporting and publishing findings, as well as prepare tables and graphs for posters/presentations. Other duties include:

Assisting in the identification of restoration projects and the development of restoration plans for the Hudson River.

Coordinating with regional BEH staff and other programs and divisions to ensure that state and regional priorities are represented during restoration planning.

Drafting technical reports, memoranda, guidance, and data analyses to support restoration recommendations and communicate standard restoration practices.

Assisting in field sampling.

What We Need

We are looking for a talented individual who builds and maintains effective relationships with multiple stakeholders. We need someone interested in restoration planning and identifying potential restoration projects for the Hudson River. Additionally, we need someone who has the following:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the field of biological, chemical or physical sciences, with an emphasis on ecology (preferred), natural resource management, or a related field with an environmental restoration focus and 3+ years of professional research experience involving water chemistry and/or ecological restoration science or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).

Strong analytical skills.

Proven experience in communicating effectively, both written and oral.

Knowledge of how to balance conflicting priorities, make informed decisions, and use sound judgment in completing urgent tasks.

Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and priorities in a deadline-driven environment.

Ability to incorporate current restoration science and policy into planning efforts.

Working knowledge of riverine and wetland ecosystems and ecosystem services.

Experience in designing and conducting field sampling work on lakes and streams.

Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.

Ability to physically work in field locations that can be difficult to access.

Must be able to navigate uneven terrain, hills, etc.

Ability to travel overnight within New York State and work evenings and weekends as essential job functions require.

Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license.

Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and well-being.

Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

Master’s degree in the biological, chemical, or physical sciences, with an emphasis on ecology (preferred), natural resource management, or a related field with an environmental restoration focus.

Knowledge of environmental contaminants and familiarity with aquatic biota sampling methods.

Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems.

This is a one-year (40 hours/week) appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance.

There is the opportunity to work remotely within New York State one day a week; an on-site presence in Albany is required four days a week.