INTRODUCTON:

The Cape Atlantic Soil Conservation District (CASCD) works in cooperation with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) to provide technical and financial assistance to farmers, and private landowners to encourage the implementation of conservation practices designed to address natural resource issues.

The CASCD is hiring three (3) Agricultural Conservation Specialists. One in each of the following NRCS service centers: Woodstown, Hackettstown, and Frenchtown. The Agricultural Conservation Specialist assists the NRCS District Conservationist, Resource Specialists, and District staff in the planning and implementation of conservation programs and agriculture initiatives within each of the service centers. The specialist is responsible for application, follow-up and maintenance work for preliminary and single-practice phases that are scheduled in the conservation plan under the direction and supervision of the District Conservationist.

REQUIREMENTS:

Graduate of an accredited college with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Forestry, Natural Sciences, Resource Management, Environmental Studies or related areas of study.
Valid State issued driver’s license.

MAJOR DUTIES:

• Works towards obtaining NRCS Conservation Planner certification.
• Develops and carries out schedules for conservation practice implementation and follow up work for USDA Farm Bill Programs.
• Aids with program implementation as assigned by District Conservationist.
• Assist the public with the development of conservation plans, financial assistance contracts and ensuring implementation of these plans and contracts.
• Works with landowners on the application of various types of Federal and State Technical and Financial Assistance Programs.
• Provides technical assistance in the layout, installation, and maintenance of conservation practices called for in plans and contracts.
• Makes onsite adjustments to and deviations from conservation practices to meet field conditions.
• Applies a working knowledge of soil and water quality planning and designing to explain its purpose and intent, answer questions, and explain benefits of improved land use.
• Inspection of conservation practices to ensure they are installed to plan specifications.
• Aids the District Conservationist in carrying out informational programs.
• Maintains records and assists in the preparation of reports for both planned and accomplished work.
• Serve as local liaison between NRCS and local communities.
• Develop and maintain relationships with agricultural organizations outside of NRCS.

Actively supports the Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights Program and assures the delivery of agency programs and services are carried out in accordance with policy and procedures without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or physical or mental handicap.

Complies with and adheres to all Federal policies and policies of the Cape Atlantic Soil Conservation District. The specialist will be supervised by the District Conservationist while detailed to the USDA NRCS Field Office and by the District Manager while working in the Cape Atlantic Conservation District office.

Performs other duties as assigned.