RESOURCE CONSERVATIONIST – URBAN SPECIALIST

POSITION

Resource Conservationist

LOCATION

Elk Grove Village, Illinois

SALARY

Commensurate with qualifications and experience; range to be established by the District

SCHEDULE

Part-Time / Full-Time

ANTICIPATED START DATE

Within approximately one month of recruitment, depending on the selection process and candidate availability

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

The North Cook County Soil & Water Conservation District works to protect and improve soil, water, and related natural resources throughout northern Cook County. The District partners with municipalities, developers, landowners, schools, and other organizations to promote responsible land use, reduce soil erosion, protect water quality, and advance conservation practices.

Serving a highly urbanized area, NCCSWCD addresses conservation challenges associated with development, stormwater management, erosion and sediment control, habitat protection, and the sustainable management of natural resources. 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Resource Conservationist works under the direction of the NCCSWCD’s Board of Directors.  The Resource Conservationist supports the NCCSWCD Board of Directors in carrying out its responsibilities under the Illinois Soil and Water Conservation District Act and assists the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in fulfilling its natural-resource conservation responsibilities within the District.

Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the Resource Conservationist provides technical assistance, conducts field inspections, reviews land-use proposals, prepares Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) reports, supports conservation programs, and assists with environmental education and public outreach.

The successful candidate will balance fieldwork with office responsibilities, prepare clear and accurate technical reports, manage multiple assignments, and communicate effectively with municipal officials, developers, contractors, property owners, conservation partners, and the public.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES1.

Erosion and Sediment Control

• Review development plans and erosion and sediment control documentation.
• Conduct construction-site inspections and field investigations.
• Identify and document erosion, sedimentation, and related environmental concerns.
• Prepare inspection reports and communicate findings and recommendations to relevant parties.
• Track project progress, outstanding issues, and required follow-up.

2. Natural Resource Inventories and Land-Use Reviews     

• Conduct field investigations and document natural-resource features.
• Prepare NRI reports for applicable development and land-use proposals.
• Review soil surveys, aerial photographs, GIS data, and other mapping resources.
• Identify relevant natural features, including wetlands, floodplains, waterways, woodlands, and drainage features, as applicable.
• Provide technical information to municipalities and other stakeholders to support informed land-use decisions.

3. Conservation Programs and Technical Assistance

• Assist with conservation initiatives, cost-share programs, and applications.
• Support projects involving rain gardens, pollinator habitat, conservation cover, cover crops, and other appropriate conservation practices.
• Coordinate with conservation partners and local, state, and federal agencies.
• Maintain accurate program records and prepare required documentation.

4. Education and Public Outreach

• Represent the District at public meetings, hearings, agency meetings, and stakeholder events, as requested by the Board.
• Build and maintain professional working relationships with public agencies, municipalities, and private conservation organizations.
• Assist with planning and implementing conservation workshops, training sessions, presentations, school programs, and community events.
• Educate residents and stakeholders about soil conservation, water quality, erosion prevention, and natural-resource protection.
• Support youth education and environmental programs, including Envirothon.

5. General Administration and Reporting

• Prepare accurate reports, correspondence, maps, and project records.
• Manage multiple assignments and meet established deadlines.
• Maintain professional relationships with District staff, Board members, partner organizations, and the public.
• Maintain a monthly activity calendar and prepare end-of-month reports documenting Resource Conservationist activities.
• Assist the Board and Administrative Coordinator with preparation and implementation of the annual budget as it relates to the position’s responsibilities.
• Attend regular, special, and annual Board meetings, as well as staff meetings, and report on District activities.
• Represent the District through presentations at stakeholder meetings and other appropriate events.
• Perform other related duties consistent with the District’s mission.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required. Education or experience in natural resources, environmental science, soil science, environmental planning, geography, ecology, watershed management, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and practical experience.
• CPESC or DECI certification is preferred. Candidates who do not hold either certification at the time of hire will be anticipated to complete appropriate training and pursue Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC) or Designated Erosion Control Inspector (DECI) certification within six months of employment.
• Experience with erosion and sediment control inspections.
• Familiarity with development-plan reviews, stormwater management, and land-use planning.
• Experience preparing NRI or similar technical reports.
• Familiarity with GIS, soil surveys, wetlands, floodplains, and natural-resource mapping.
• Experience with conservation programs, environmental education, or public-sector work.
• Knowledge of urban conservation challenges, including stormwater runoff, urban soils, habitat fragmentation, and the protection of waterways.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize responsibilities, and manage multiple projects.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying weather conditions and outdoor environments.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites and meetings as required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT                

This position combines office-based responsibilities with outdoor inspections, field investigations, site visits, meetings, and occasional public events. Some evening work may be required. Attendance at required training sessions and the Illinois SWCD annual summer and winter conferences is expected.

The District will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Compensation will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, and the District’s approved budget. Benefits, paid leave, retirement arrangements, and other employment terms will be provided in accordance with applicable District policies.