Soil and Water Conservation District - Soil & Water - Part Time Soil and Water

Soil and Water Conservation District Programs Assistant

Description

Under the direction of the District Director, the District Programs Assistant is responsible for serving the Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District’s commitment to technical assistance with soil health, agronomy, water quality, advancing technology, and agribusiness.  This position involves mentorship from established scientific staff in the District who will train, supervise, and accompany the Programs Assistant for experiences in the field as well as analysis and technical tasks in the office.  This individual takes initiative to coordinate with District staff while taking advantage of this excellent educational experience.

Essential Functions

• Demonstrate regular and predictable attendance for the required hours to be worked.
• Comply with all Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District policies, including Employment (Personnel) Policy, Board Policies, and Position Description.
• Dress appropriately for the position and the work to be completed.
• Be physically capable of making field visits and conducting sampling as necessary. Lift and handle the required equipment.
• Work well with others, including children ages 7-17, if working with school events or workshops.
• Actively participate in day-to-day activities while displaying a good attitude and work ethic.
• Prepare and maintain forms used in providing assistance to land users, land owners, administrative records, progress reporting, and all other field office records necessary for documentation and preparation of reports.
• Assist with the development and implementation of the Allen County SWCD’s public relations program through displays, tours, field days, educational events, workshops, clinics, and other related activities. Conservation programming will be offered for both adult and youth.
• Assist in creating news releases, District newsletter, digital marketing materials, mailing materials, and website materials as assigned.
• Maintain security of all electronic data, hard copies, and computer equipment.
• Responsible for proper use and storage of Allen County SWCD automotives, office, and rental equipment.
• As needed, answer the telephone and meet office callers.
• Perform all other activities and duties assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Graduate
• Knowledge of agricultural practices, products and terminology especially related to soil and water conservation activities.

• Valid Driver’s License to operate a County owned vehicle.  Must be insurable for vehicle operation. May be required to use personal vehicle.
• Willingness to submit to a criminal background check for working with children.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong computer skills with the ability to use Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, and software related to the assigned projects.
• Knowledge of GIS is helpful but not required.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:

The Programs Assistant performs work involving numerous variables when promoting conservation systems and management practices reducing amounts of sediment and pesticides reaching the watersheds.  They are expected to follow instruction, take initiative, be responsible, and make decisions based on the most pertinent guidelines.  Success in this role will be measured by acuity, growth while in the position, and the ability to carry out protocols and tasks with precision and accuracy.

RESPONSIBILITY:

The Programs Assistant makes decisions based on guidelines and policies when developing materials and working with the public.  Soundness of judgment and mature communication is necessary at all times in representation of the County as well as the District’s mission “to promote the wise use of soil, water, and related natural resources”.

PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:

The Programs Assistant maintains frequent contact with other County employees for scope of work and daily responsibilities.  The Programs Assistant may have opportunity to interact with landowners, farmers, business owners, government agency personnel, local government officials, non-government organizations, and citizens regarding soil health and water quality related issues.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Programs Assistant works in a standard office environment as well as in the field which includes agricultural, riparian, or urban settings. Frequent sitting, some walking, bending, and standing are required, as well as some lifting, up to 50 pounds.  Frequent typing and attention to detail is required.  Walking over rough terrain and carrying equipment is required at times and in all weather conditions. Operating power tools and machinery is sometimes required. 

SUPERVISION:

None

LICENSING: 

Valid Driver’s License to operate a County owned vehicle

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: 

The Allen County Soil and Water District Director

HOURS: 

8:00 am – 4:30 pm and as needed including occasional nights and weekends, estimated 15 hours per week.

EEO CATEGORY: 

0602