The Natural Resource Specialist performs a wide range of duties ranging from developing conservation projects to physical activities in the field.  The Natural Resource Specialist conducts research, coordinates projects, compiles data, creates written reports and proficiently uses a variety of computer and social media applications.  The Natural Resource Specialist must be dependable, organized, personable and self-motivated, and always represent the District in a positive manner.  The Natural Resource Specialist must possess a well-rounded background in the field of natural resource conservation, and must also be able to perform the physical duties required by natural resource conservation field projects. Experience with NRCS programs is preferred. The Natural Resource Specialist will have strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate and manage a watershed committee to implement actions recommended in local watershed plans.

Specific Duties of the Natural Resource Specialist:

• Work under the direction of the ECCD Board of Directors and the District Director/Executive Director, providing timely and professional responses to requests and instructions. Assist the Board of Directors in the execution of its duties.
• Provide natural resource related technical assistance to agricultural producers, land owners and citizens of the District.
• Provide technical assistance to towns, including site plan reviews for conformance with current Erosion & Sediment Guidelines and other applicable standards. Understand stormwater pollution protection plans and conduct erosion and sediment control inspections at new solar array installations.
• Plan and implement natural resource conservation projects, educational programs and workshops as directed.
• Assist the District Director/Executive Director and Board of Directors in researching grant opportunities; prepare and submit grant proposals, and implement grant projects, as directed.
• Serve as a team member of the RC&D Environmental Review Team as directed by the Board of Directors.
• Participate in the preparation of a monthly project/activity status report for the Board of Directors meetings.
• Maintain strong working relationships with NRCS, FSA, Connecticut DEEP, and other organizations and agencies that interact with ECCD, through cooperation and collaboration.
• Attend and actively participate in a wide variety of meetings as directed, establishing and maintaining productive relationships with various groups and individuals.
• Speak before groups when acting as an instructor at a workshop, or as the District’s representative.
• Seek and obtain funding from new sources as directed.
• Be available to work evenings and weekends as reasonably required by the position and directed by the District Director/Executive Director or the Board of Directors.
• Conduct other duties as assigned by the executive director or the board of directors.