Resource Conservation Planner (RCP) or Technician/ (RCT)

South Yakima Conservation District (South Yakima CD or SYCD) is a special purpose district located in Zillah, WA . SYCD collaborates with landowners and land managers to help them manage their land’s natural resources. Natural resources include soil, water, air, plants, animals, energy, and human considerations. SYCD provides technical assistance to address resource concerns through the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) that help protect natural resources and promote sustainable land use. SYCD is one of 45 conservation districts in Washington under the coordination of the Washington State Conservation Commission (WSCC).

SYCD has a broad range of programs involving planning and technical assistance, including (but not limited to) dairy and livestock nutrient management planning, irrigation efficiencies, riparian habitat enhancement, shrub steppe habitat rehabilitation and fire suppression, and soil health. These programs receive public funding through various sources such as grant funds. SYCD is also part of the Lower Yakima Valley Groundwater Management Area (LYV GWMA or GWMA) implementation committee and Yakima County Voluntary Stewardship Program (VSP). GWMA’s goal is to reduce nitrate concentrations in groundwater, and VSP seeks to protect critical areas on agricultural lands. SYCD also offers cost-share funding and technical expertise to landowners for projects that involve implementation of BMPs.

Position Objectives

The Resource Conservation Planner (RCP) or Technician (RCT) is a full-time position that will work with the rest of the SYCD staff as a team to address natural resource concerns by providing direct one-on-one technical assistance to private landowners and other participants within the district boundaries. This position entails working closely with other agencies and organizations, including other conservation districts, Washington State Conservation Commission (WSCC), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA), Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE), and many others. The RCT or RCP will also assist with farm/conservation planning, implementation of BMPs, and providing education and outreach to local landowners, land managers, agencies, partners, and the community.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Promote the organization, role, mission, goals, and programs of the Conservation District as identified in SYCD’s annual and 5-year plans and following RCW 89.08.
• Undergo training to become a Certified Conservation Planner (Level 3 Conservation Planner) or higher as well as to advance knowledge of local and statewide natural resources. Training settings include classroom, online, field, and on-the-job training.
• Assist in developing and writing conservation plans, such as nutrient management plans, irrigation water management plans, farm plans and all habitat enhancement or rehabilitation plans as projects develop, etc.
• Assist district staff and partners in promoting cost-share assistance programs.
• Lead, work with stakeholders and field crews in performing activities such as soil sampling, planting, monitoring, etc.
• Organize and plan education and outreach activities with staff and other agencies for landowners and the community such as field days, demonstrations, presentations, workshops, etc.
• Attend monthly Board Meetings and provide a verbal progress report to the Board of Supervisors as needed.
• Attend other regular meetings related to district programs.
• Participate in committees and in special groups as assigned.
• Know and comply with all .
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the District Manager.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree is a minimum requirement.
• A solid background in natural resource sciences, Washington agriculture, and/or systems such as irrigation, soil and water conservation principles, and water quality concerns.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and have a valid Washington State driver’s license.
• Fluent in the English language. Ability to understand and communicate in Spanish is not required but is a plus.
• Passion for learning and willingness to continue building upon your knowledge and skills
• Strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills along with the ability to work with diverse stakeholders
• Ability to maintain a professional work ethic while completing all duties assigned in a timely manner.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as in groups
• High level of collaboration with partners is expected, including agricultural professionals, landowners, and the community
• High degree of diplomacy and confidentiality
• Ability to walk long distances in all types of terrain with possible exposure to inclement weather; lifting and carrying equipment and materials
• Understanding of basic computer programs such as Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of Conservation Districts and/or Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a plus, along with other agriculture- and natural resource-related fields of study, instruction, or work experience.
• Prior to employment with South Yakima Conservation District, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered to determine suitability and competence to perform in the position.

Working Conditions

• Schedule: Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Work Setting: Work is performed both indoors at the field office in Zillah, WA and in the field usually within the district boundary. Some fieldwork will include onsite visits with landowners, district staff, other cooperators and agency partners.
• Travel Requirements: Occasional travel is an expectation and may be required on a regular basis within the district’s boundaries. Some out-of-area travel may occur for conferences or training.
• Tools and Equipment: Involves general office equipment as well as field tools and equipment, such as company vehicles, ATVs, UTVs, utility trailers, soil sampling equipment, and irrigation water management equipment.

Salary and Benefits

Full-Time Employee dependent on education, experience, and qualifications.

• Federal and State holidays
• Paid overtime
• Stipend for medical insurance premiums
• Accrued annual leave and sick leave
• 403(b) retirement program employer contributes (employee-managed)