Organization Background:

The Schoolcraft Conservation District (SCD) is a local unit of government, IRS 170(c)(1), and has been serving Schoolcraft County through stewardship of natural resources for over 60 years. Historically, the District is funded by several sources - state, federal, and county grants, seedling sales, and generous donations. Schoolcraft County residents provide funding through an operational millage specific to the District – the current millage provides funding through 2038.

Position Objective:

The position of Conservation Technician is an opportunity to play a key role in community engagement on the behalf of this organization. The person acting as Conservation Technician primarily administers the Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control (SESC) program on behalf of Schoolcraft Conservation District (SCD) and Schoolcraft County. They will also coordinate outreach, marketing, and environmental education. They may also work on other grant projects that are of interest to them and as assigned by the District Manager, as their hours allow.

This employee serves the District by implementing the SESC program; supporting SCD’s mission through varying methods of promotion including educational events, workshops, social media and website management, written and verbal public relations, and other in-person efforts; and assisting on other grant-based projects as funding allows. They will maintain strong relationships with the public and other organizations.

Relationships:

The Conservation Technician reports directly to the SCD District Manager. Annual goals, outreach projects, and expenditures are coordinated with the District Manager. This person will work closely with other District staff to coordinate and promote district events. This person will maintain a good working relationship with County agencies and municipalities (i.e. Building and Zoning, LMAS, County Commissioners).

Essential Functions:

60%

• Administer the Soil Erosion Sedimentation Control Program (processing applications, issuing permits, doing periodic site visits, reporting paperwork).

40%

• Ensures timely, relevant stories, photos and media posts relating directly to the mission of SCD are consistently produced and are available for multiple communications approaches.
• Graphic design and production of seasonal newsletters, seedling catalogs, the annual report, strategic plan and other print publications including guidebooks, flyers, posters, info-sheets, postcards, signage, swag, and so on.
• Creates compelling written and visual content for social media, website, email blasts, and press releases, which includes text, photos and video.
• Supports the coordination of events, programming and workshops, both in-person and virtually.
• Supports SCD staff in developing and presenting environmental education to varying demographics.
• Provides general support for SCD fundraising efforts.
• Represents the District in a professional and supportive manner in the office and at all functions sponsored by the District.
• Attends local and regional organization and/or agency meetings representing SCD, as assigned.
• Prepares and submits monthly activity report.
• Assists the public, both walk-ins and phone inquiries, making referrals to other staff or appropriate agencies where necessary.
• Occasionally assists staff with field work, as needed.
• Pursue continuing education in useful technologies, invasive plants and pests, and other natural resource topics.
• Other duties as assigned by District Manager.

Educational Qualifications of the Ideal Candidate:

Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, agriculture, forestry, environmental education, or a related field. Exceptions may be considered for those candidates who are working toward a Bachelor’s degree, or have an associate’s degree in the natural resources field. A willingness to learn is necessary.

Preferred Experience:

• Must have or be able to obtain a Certified Stormwater Operator and SESC Inspector certification upon hire.
• Computer software: Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, Google for Business, Weebly, Mail Chimp, Canva, social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), and POS systems (Square and PayPal).
• Has general knowledge of natural resources, agriculture, watershed stewardship, wildlife, ecology principles, and policies.
• Must have a strong customer service work ethic and be able to cooperatively work with the public and contractors

Abilities:

• Detail-oriented and self-starter
• Strong organizational skills; flexibility
• Manage multiple tasks accurately and with consistency
• Excellent communication skills
• Excellent social and interpersonal skills
• Maintains valid driver’s license
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time
• Ability to assist with fieldwork
• Computer and office equipment skills

WAGE: $22-$25 an hour dependent on experience. Full-time year-round position.

BENEFITS: Paid time off including annual leave, sick leave, and holidays; $150/month health insurance stipend; eligible to enroll in District health, vision, and dental insurance; eligible to enroll in MERS for retirement with employer match; flexible work schedule.

Position Subject To: Satisfactory passing of SESC Certified Stormwater Operator and SESC Inspector certification exams.

This description is intended to serve as a guide for the position of Conservation Technician and describes the general nature and level of work expected of this position.  It is not to be considered inclusive of all job responsibilities.

The Schoolcraft Conservation District is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusivity.  Hiring decisions are not based on race, faith, sexual orientation, or gender.