Through employment with the Lapeer Conservation District, the Conservation Technician will assist USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) with implementation of various agricultural conservation practices available to Lapeer and Oakland County landowners through the 2018 Farm Bill. One position is open. This is a grant funded, non-federal position with intentions for renewal.

 

The Conservation Technician will aid in the delivery of USDA Farm Bill Programs, primarily CSP (Conservation Stewardship Program) and EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program). Delivery of these programs to customers will be through multiple phases including farm site assessments, developing conservation plans, assisting with program signups, contracting and implementation.

 

The technician is supervised by, and reports to the Manager of the Lapeer Conservation District. The Technician will work closely with the NRCS District Conservationist and will adhere to USDA-NRCS practice standards. The Technician will also develop and maintain positive working relationships with fellow employees as well as with employees of other conservation agencies. This position requires direct contact with landowners and the public for education, planning, and implementation of conservation practices.

 

1.      Develop a weekly schedule in consultation with the District Manager and NRCS District Conservationist.

4.      Conduct field visits to obtain data and other information as needed for the design, installation, and certification of NRCS conservation practices such as, but not limited to, pest management, nutrient management, prescribed grazing, cover crops, conservation cover, and tree/shrub establishment.

5.      Assist contract holders with technical guidance regarding implementation of their practices.

7.      Assist the District Conservationist with monitoring progress of contract implementation, conducting contract reviews, processing contract modifications and payments, and general correspondence with contract holders.

8.      Learn EQIP and CSP program rules and regulations concerning administration of applications and contracting procedures.

9.      Learn agency specific software related to mapping, planning & contracting.

10.    Maintain accurate, organized records of customer interactions.

11.    Maintain client confidentiality.

 

 

12.    Develop in-person and virtual presentations to deliver Farm Bill outreach and education for various audiences. Events may include preparing news articles for publication in newsletters or on website, organizing and conducting field tours, demonstrations, or workshops.

13.    Complete and submit monthly board reports to the Lapeer and Oakland Conservation Districts.

14.    Complete and submit required quarterly reports to NACD (National Association of Conservation Districts).

 

1.      Work with the District Manager to assist with conservation services such as the annual meeting, walk-in customers, answering telephones, general office upkeep ,tree and miscellaneous sales, as well as anything else not specifically listed yet deemed appropriate by the Lapeer Conservation District Board of Directors.

2.      Assist in the preparation of District records, reports, and annual and long-range work plans.

3.      Attend meetings of the Lapeer and Oakland Conservation District Boards as directed. 

4.      Work cooperatively with multiple agencies, including but not limited to, USDA-NRCS, MDARD (Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development), and MSUE (Michigan State University Extension).

5.      Attend and participate in various professional development classes and training events. Obtain NRCS certifications in Conservation Planning, Pest Management, and Nutrient Management when courses are available.

 

1.      Four-year Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture or a natural resource related field from an accredited college or university.

2.      Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

3.      Excellent computer skills and ability to learn USDA software programs.

4.      Ability to plan, schedule, and prioritize workload.

5.      Ability to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and rough terrain; ability to lift 50 pounds.

6.      Willingness to travel occasionally to trainings and meetings, some which may be overnight.

7.      A valid Michigan driver’s license and willingness to drive in urban, suburban, and rural areas throughout Lapeer and Oakland Counties.

8.      Must be able to pass a Federal Background Check.

 

1.   One or more years of experience in natural resources, agriculture, forestry or other    conservation fieldwork.

2.   Knowledge of and experience working with agricultural producers and conservation practices.

3.   GIS experience.

4.   Public speaking experience

 

The Conservation Technician is an hourly position at $17.00/hour and is based in Lapeer, MI. Typical work hours will be Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week. Some night and weekend work will be required. Benefits include paid training opportunities, paid holidays, and paid time off according to District policies.

 

 Email a cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on knowledge, skills, and abilities along

 with a resume and list of three references to Mary Brown at mary.brown@macd.org by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 20, 2022.