Foster Creek Conservation District (FCCD) is a special purpose district that delivers a range of grant-funded programs and services throughout Douglas County, in Central Washington, that support our mission and our pillar programs. Our mission is to serve the community by providing quality technical assistance for the voluntary stewardship of natural resources in northern Douglas County.

Position Description

The Natural Resource Specialist–Farm Planner advances voluntary, incentive-based conservation across Douglas County by providing hands-on technical assistance to landowners and producers. The position develops site-specific conservation plans, supports Farm Bill program eligibility and implementation, and works with NRCS and local partners to improve soil health, water quality, habitat, and agricultural viability.

The Specialist coordinates site visits, conservation practice certification, monitoring, contract management, reporting, and long-term operation and maintenance of conservation practices. Success requires strong communication, organization, independent problem-solving, and collaboration with District staff, NRCS, landowners, producers, and partner agencies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement site-specific conservation plans for cropland, rangeland, and habitat management using NRCS standards.
• Coordinate project development, site visits, partners, timelines, and implementation.
• Prepare maps, reports, and documentation to support planning, grant application, and program reporting.
• Collect and analyze natural resource data to inform conservation planning and the Voluntary Stewardship Program.
• Administer and manage contracts for CRP and other Farm Bill programs, ensuring compliance with program requirements.
• Build partnerships with landowners, producers, and agencies; support education and outreach and track project and grant progress.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate is a practical, relationship-driven professional passionate about working lands conservation and voluntary stewardship. They can translate technical information into clear, actionable guidance, build trust with landowners, and balance environmental and agricultural priorities. They are adaptable, resourceful, organized, and solutions-oriented, with the ability to work independently while contributing effectively to FCCD’s collaborative team.

Position Qualifications:

Suggested Minimum Qualifications: The education, experience, and skills necessary to perform adequately in the position.

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural resources, agriculture, or a closely related field, with two (2) years of relevant professional experience; or an Associate’s degree in a related field with three (3) or more years of applicable experience.
• Working knowledge of soil, agronomy, and natural resource conservation principles, practices, and techniques.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Intermediate computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, with the ability to learn and use new technologies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in remote locations and varying weather conditions, including carrying field equipment as needed.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license or ability to obtain one upon employment.

Preferred Qualifications: The education, experience, and skills preferred but not necessary to perform in the position.

• Experience managing contracts for CRP or other Farm Bill programs.
• Knowledge of natural resource project development and conservation practice implementation on private lands.
• Familiarity with Farm Bill programs and cost-share program administration.
• Experience conducting outreach and building relationships with landowners, farm operators, and managers to develop voluntary conservation projects.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.
• Strong multitasking, communication, and quality-control skills.

Salary and schedule:

This is a full-time, non-exempt position with compensation starting at $27.65–$29.56 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. The standard work schedule is 8 hours per day, 5 days per week; however, hours may vary based on project needs. Remote work is available with the candidate expected to work from the Waterville office a minimum of 4 days per week. Employees must reside in Washington State and be within a reasonable distance of the Foster Creek CD office to meet workplace reporting requirements. Funding for this position is subject to the continuing availability of federal, state, and local grants and contracts.

Benefits include:

• A significant health insurance subsidy
• Accrued paid sick leave (8 hours per month)
• Acrrued paid vacation leave (8 hours per month)
• 12 Paid public holidays

Compensation and benefits are established by the Board of Supervisors of Foster Creek Conservation District and are reviewed and approved annually. All benefits are subject to change in accordance with Board of Supervisors’ policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Foster Creek Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, religion, color, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, gender orientation, veteran status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by applicable state, federal, or local laws. This policy covers all programs, services, and procedures.

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