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. 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

This position implements field-based conservation projects, including rangeland resilience through noxious weed control, riparian habitat restoration, monitoring and data support for water and agricultural programs, and assistance with education and outreach across multiple programs. Approximately 80% of work occurs in the field and 20% in the office.

The Resource Technician must work independently and collaboratively, often in physically demanding conditions. The ideal candidate has a strong interest in conservation and natural resource management, is adaptable, willing to learn, and contributes effectively both independently and as part of a team. Ongoing training is provided, with potential for position extension pending available funding.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Implement conservation projects, including planting, in-stream work, noxious weed treatment, and other field technical activities within water and agricultural programs.
• Conduct site preparation activities such as mowing, site surveys, herbicide application, material staging, and related tasks in advance of conservation practice implementation.
• Collect field data using electronic equipment including GPS units, tablets, laptops, data loggers (e.g., TidbiT), and other digital tools.
• Collect field measurements using hand tools and other manual methods.
• Enter and manage data in various software programs, including Microsoft Excel.
• Assist with youth education programs, K–12 events, and development of outreach materials.
• Support development of grant application(s), project reports and outreach projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Qualifications:

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

• Knowledge of a broad range of soil and water conservation principles, techniques, methods and practices.
• Intermediate desktop computer literacy and computer software skills.  Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc., and learn new technologies to perform the functions of the position.
• Experience working independently or as a team in remote locations under a variety of weather conditions, carrying field equipment to complete required job tasks.
• Ability to lift, pull, carry or push up to 50 lbs.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license or able to attain one upon employment.

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

• At least high school diploma with some experience with natural resource topics. 
• Demonstrated ability in handling multiple projects and the capability of working with diverse individuals and small groups while taking direction. 
• Experience operating and maintaining landscape equipment, mowers, brush cutters, etc.
• Knowledge of Eastern Washington flora, fauna and ecology.
• WSDA applicator license, public operator designation.
• Experience working with conservation districts, and NRCS.

Required Skills and Equipment

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, including smartphones, printers, and copiers.
• Ability to collect and manage field data using electronic devices such as GPS units, tablets, and laptops.
• Ability to safely use hand tools including shovels, soil probes, and other natural resource measurement equipment.
• Experience or ability to safely operate mechanized equipment such as brush cutters, mowers, and other gas- or electric-powered tools.
• Ability to operate backpack herbicide sprayers and district vehicles in accordance with safety guidelines.