General Statement of Duties: Performs technical and professional work in the delivery of watershed management and programs of soil and water conservation for the County.

Distinguishing Features of the Class: An employee in this class serves as a specialist for the Soil and Water Conservation District and performs consultative and technical work with farmers and landowners regarding a wide variety of soil and water conservation practices and watershed management, including state waste management regulations. Work requires strong public contact functions in promoting, drafting, and implementing land and water use and waste management plans; providing information on current conservation options; encouraging and informing landowners about new approaches, programs, and sources of funds; making feasibility studies; and determining appropriate sites for such practices.

Work also includes promoting and administering federal and state cost share programs and participating in general County education program efforts. Independent judgment, analysis, and initiative are required in the field and in developing plan designs. Accuracy is required in applying regulations and administering funding programs. Tact and courtesy are essential.

The employee serves as Co-Advisor for the Agricultural Advisory Board and the County’s Voluntary Agricultural District Program.

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, sometimes under extreme weather conditions, and may involve exposure to farming and construction machinery. Work is performed under general supervision of the Department Head and with limited oversight from the Soil & Water District Board. Performance is evaluated through project progress, observation, and conferences.

Duties and Responsibilities Essential Duties and Tasks:

Serves as the Contracting Officer on watershed maintenance and improvements; prepares and maintains records, reports, contracts, and modifications.
Monitors project activities including flood control structures; conducts annual inspections to meet dam safety requirements.
Meets daily with farmers and landowners to discuss conservation programs for water quality improvements and land management.
Gathers field data on soil, water, and waste conditions; observes issues and recommends corrective measures.
Develops design plans for conservation practices; supervises and certifies implementation.
Performs technical evaluations, surveys, designs, and contracts for a wide range of conservation practices.
Develops conservation plans requiring knowledge in agronomy, soils, engineering, agriculture, vegetation, and livestock management.
Evaluates waste management systems for compliance with state regulations; assists landowners and reports issues to appropriate authorities.
Assists urban landowners with erosion control, flood concerns, and stormwater runoff; reviews sedimentation and erosion plans.
Attends monthly Soil & Water Conservation District Board Meetings to present program updates.
Assists the District Board in setting program parameters in line with Soil & Water Commission requirements.
Attends trainings and conferences to meet job approval and certification standards.
Maintains Remote Pilot Certification for drone operation.
Coordinates Agricultural Advisory Board activities; records minutes and manages membership agreements.
Operates and maintains equipment such as a no-till seed drill.
Supports and delivers educational programs.
Engages with farmers, contractors, landowners, developers, attorneys, government agencies, civic groups, and the public.

Additional Job Duties:

Enters data into databases related to clients, resources, and conservation plans.
Provides information on soil testing and characteristics; speaks to community groups as needed.
Performs related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Considerable knowledge of dam safety guidelines and flood control.
Ability to analyze requirements and recommend improvements.
Strong understanding of soil erosion, sedimentation, water quality, and pollution management.
Familiarity with regulations related to conservation programs.
Skilled in surveying and conservation practice design.
Competent in technical assistance, independent decision-making, and evaluation of conservation needs.
Working knowledge of agronomy, soil science, and engineering practices.
Ability to prepare work plans, agreements, designs, and mapping data.
Skilled in records, reports, and cost-share documentation.
Effective oral and written communication.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaboration with stakeholders and public officials.
Ability to manage sensitive matters with professionalism and courtesy.
Proficient in planning, organizing, and completing projects.
Capable of public speaking in both small and large group settings.
Knowledgeable in use of required equipment and materials. Physical Requirements & Working Conditions Must be able to perform basic physical tasks: stooping, kneeling, reaching, walking, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, etc. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally and 20 pounds frequently. Primary work is outdoors, often in extreme weather and around hazardous conditions (e.g., chemicals, noise, wetness).

Occasional overnight travel may be required. Must operate equipment and machinery as needed.

Desirable Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering or a related field and 3–5 years of experience in agriculture or a similar area; or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $43,000.00 - $68,800.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Stokes County Government

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