Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District

Job Opening: Watershed Specialist, Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District

About the Organization:

The Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District was formed in 1943, with the mission to work with private landowners and other organizations to help prevent and control soil erosion, improve the water quality of local rivers, lakes, and streams, and to restore and enhance native wildlife habitat.

The District is operated by an elected 5-member Board of Directors.

About the Position:

The Watershed Specialist is full-time position (40 hours) weekly. This position functions as a vital part of our team providing the lead to the organization’s ongoing watershed planning and coordination activities. Initiative is a must, enthusiasm and a positive attitude are encouraged.

The Watershed Specialist’s primary responsibility is to coordinate the Lake Decatur Watershed Program, a multi-faceted program designed to increase conservation adoption in the watershed through the implementation of on-the-ground best management practices and effective education and outreach to all stakeholders on the importance of soil conservation and water quality.

Major Duties:

The watershed specialist will implement the tasks and objectives of watershed related activities and grants awarded to the Conservation District as laid out in the terms of each specific grant. In addition, this position will be responsible for:

• Conducting informational and educational activities related to Conservation District programs through the use of meetings, newsletters, presentations, demonstrations, news releases, and other means
• Conducting educational erosion and sediment control inspections for construction sites throughout the county, while educating county residents on proper stormwater management practices to improve water quality (see maconcleanwater.com)
• Coordinating with various agencies, local units of government and watershed management organizations to promote lake and watershed management and water quality, as well as develop and maintain watershed management plans and improvement projects
• Provide timely reports and updates to the Board of Directors

Knowledge and Skills Preferred:

• Working knowledge of watershed issues, non-point source pollution remediation strategies, and watershed management while promoting stakeholder engagement
• Knowledge of agricultural conservation practices that address non-point source pollution (grassed waterways, nutrient management, filter strips, etc.)
• Proven track record of grants management and project reporting preferably to a federal funding agency. Working knowledge of spreadsheet and database management for reporting.
• Understanding of geographic information systems (GIS) and their use in watershed management and planning
• Ability to work independently, establish work priorities, and manage time effectively, multi task
• Training/certifications in erosion and sediment control, as well as conservation planning
• Ability to work effectively with individuals, groups, and units of government
• Excellent writing, presentation, and public relations skills

Work Environment:

Work is performed both in an office environment and in the field. Field work may include traversing uneven terrain in all weather conditions in ag fields and construction sites.

Application Process:  Qualified applicants should send a cover letter and resume to the Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District via email to Angela at  angela@maconcountyswcd.com.

The MCSWCD offers a competitive salary and benefits and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.