Headwaters Soil and Water Conservation District
Conservation Technician (Full-Time) Job Description
The Agricultural Conservation Technician provides the HSWCD with support in implementing the expanded Virginia Agricultural
Best Management Practices (BMP) Cost Share and Tax Credit Programs, and TMDL Programs for impaired streams. This position is
under the direction of the Headwaters Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Directors, and is supervised by the District’s
Conservation Specialist.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Provides technical assistance for the implementation of the appropriate BMP’s.
Determines needs and feasibility of conservation practices. Prepares designs, estimates, layouts, etc.
for the practices.
Participates in the inspection of construction, and ensures adherence to specifications.
Performs on-site services of landowner cost-share requests and recommends certification of
performance to the Specialist.
Contacts and informs landowners (residents of the TMDL watersheds) of the TMDL implementation
goals as well as financial assistance programs available.
Promotes the Cost-Share Program by attending farm-related meetings, networking with the farm
community, etc.
Administers the TMDL portion of the VA Ag BMP Cost-Share Program. Responsible for tracking
and reporting of landowner projects, activities and programs associated with the TMDL watersheds.
Performs compliance spot-checks and follow-up according to DCR specifications and District
policies.
Attends and participates in meetings of the District board, Agriculture & Cost-Share Committee,
TMDL implementation plan steering committee, and others as directed.
Works closely with the Department of Conservation & Recreation staff on issues related to the
District’s grant agreement and the TMDL implementation plan.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
1. Knowledge of agricultural operations and conservation issues related to agriculture
2. Knowledge of agricultural best management practices
3. Ability to utilize standard computer software – word processing, spreadsheets, email, database programs
4. Map reading skills
5. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and through writing
6. Ability to work independently and schedule time in an efficient manner
7. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with others by being a team player
8. Ability to interpret technical standards and program policies and guidelines
Applicant must have a valid Virginia driver’s license and must be willing to provide his or her own transportation on the job if District
vehicles are not available. Mileage will be reimbursed at the current mileage rate as set by the HSWCD.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Surveying skills
Knowledge of construction activities and water system installations
Technical knowledge of the design and installation of conservation practices
Ability to utilize computer/technology application tasks – Geographic Information Systems, Global Positioning Systems
Education and Experience:
High school graduate required; college degree in an agriculture/natural resources related field or combination of education and
equivalent experience is desired.
Additional Duties:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Assists the District Conservation Specialist as necessary, including dam safety and maintenance duties.
Performs other tasks as requested by the Board of Directors.
Assists with website management.
Attendance of night meetings is required.