Conservation Technician - Water Resources

Olmsted County has earned the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work - Southeast Minnesota designation.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college in soil conservation, natural resources, agricultural science, communications, or related field. 
OR

Associate degree from an accredited college in soil conservation, natural resources, agricultural science, communications, or related field and two (2) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

OR

A combination of education and experience equivalent to four (4) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions. 
 

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.                               

Nature of Work

Provides technical support and education and outreach to the public relating to Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) programs and activities, as well as works with other agencies, organizations and individuals.

Examples of Work

• Assesses project eligibility, works with local cooperators, performs field surveys and design, project construction management and oversight, conduct status reviews.
• Collects and analyzes data, runs reports, and creates billings for conservation programs, groundwater, stream, and water quality monitoring.
• Reviews project applications, reviews replacement plans, and provides technical information related to enforcement for Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) activities.
• Develops and presents educational programming for a variety of natural resource and conservation topics.
• Assists with district tree program and native prairie restoration. Provides guidance to landowners to implement the Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) easement program and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) on private lands.
• Assists with the review of plats, erosion control, storm water management, and urban conservation programs.
• Conducts field surveys, collects data for monitoring and GIS mapping, and runs reports.
• Assists with grant tracking and reporting activities.
• Creates correspondence including news releases, plans, reports, conservation plan materials and other documents, and distributes as necessary.
• Assists with the annual operational plan and comprehensive plan.
• Provides administrative support for soil and water district programs.
• Develops program educational and outreach materials.
• Works on special projects as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Knowledge of soil properties, geology, hydrology, and topography.
• Knowledge of surveying equipment and techniques.
• Knowledge of soil conservation practices.
• Knowledge of conservation management best practices.
• Knowledge of agronomy and farm planning principles.
• Knowledge of grant writing process.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices used in engineering.
• Skill in the use of basic mathematics, geometry, and trigonometry.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology, including ArcGIS software, Microsoft Office products, AutoCAD, and USDA’s engineering programs.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and technical documents.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including presentations and public speaking.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.