SENIOR URBAN CONSERVATIONIST

Transcription

1 C3 Position Description December 19, 2016 East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District SENIOR URBAN CONSERVATIONIST SECTION 1: EMPLOYER AND POSITION DESCRIPTION The East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (EMSWCD) is seeking to fill a Senior Urban Conservationist Position. The EMSWCD, like the other 44 soil and water conservation districts in Oregon, is a non-regulatory government agency known as a Special District (i.e., a municipal corporation). Located in northwestern Oregon, the EMSWCD serves approximately 700,000 residents who live, own and/or manage land east of the Willamette River in Multnomah County (see map below). The EMSWCD encompasses an area of approximately 230,000 acres, which includes the city of Portland and portions of three major watersheds the Sandy River, Columbia River, and Willamette River all of which contribute to the Greater Columbia River Basin. Location and Boundaries of the EMSWCD Multnomah County Oregon EMSWCD operational area The mission of the EMSWCD is to help people care for land and water. The EMSWCD accomplishes its mission through four major program areas: 1) Finance & Operations; 2) Urban Lands; 3) Rural Lands; and 4) Conservation Legacy. The Senior Urban Conservationist is a position within the Urban Lands Program, which serves Multnomah County residents who live in the highly urbanize areas of the district. This position works out of the EMSWCD office located at 5211 N. Williams Avenue in Portland. The primary purpose of the assigned work is to provide on-site technical assistance in regard to urban land conservation best practices for residential, commercial, industrial, academic, and government landowners and land managers. The goal of the work is to reduce potential loss of natural resources due to soil erosion, water pollution and use, habitat degradation, and destructive land development and use, among others. The long-term goals of the position are the sustainable development and management of urban lands, protection of ecosystem processes, erosion reduction, water conservation, water quality improvement and, to the extent possible, the restoration of native ecosystems. EMSWCD 5211 N Williams Ave, Portland OR (503) Page 1 of 7

2 Being non-regulatory, the EMSWCD Senior Urban Conservationist is in a unique position to provide technical assistance to land owners, land managers and regulatory agencies to improve and protect environmental and natural resources, especially those related to soil and water resources. EMSWCD values diversity and seeks to hire a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. We welcome all to apply. SECTION 2: POSITION DETAILS 2.1 Job Title and Class 2.2. Working Job Title Senior Conservationist, C3 Senior Urban Conservationist 2.3 Job Status 2.4 Salary Averages 40 hrs/wk; flexible schedule $55,353 - $77, Work Location 2.6 Date of Hire District office in Portland, Oregon 2.7 Eligible for Overtime Pay No. Overtime offset by comp time. 2.8 Benefits Sick leave and vacation leave are accrued from the first full month of employment, with time off for paid vacation available after six months. Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance premiums are paid by the District. Family medical/dental/vision insurance is available but a portion of which must be paid for by the employee. An employee-based contribution retirement plan is available with the District matching up to 6% of the employee s salary. Liability coverage is provided to all employees, subject to the limitations of the Oregon Tort Claims Act, through , and the Oregon Constitution. SECTION 3: MAJOR DUTIES 3.1 Technical Conservation Assistance Advise urban land-owners/developers/managers (including residential, commercial, industrial, public, and academic) on conservation methods, including but not limited to, those that relate to erosion prevention, invasive plant prevention and control, sediment control, wildlife habitat, energy conservation, riparian areas and wetlands management, and developing alternatives for addressing storm water management. Conservation practices include water management and use, native plant establishment, and soil management, among others. In some cases, the Conservationist will work alongside implementing entities. This may include, but will not be limited to, taking measurements and laying out conservation practices. All work will be done in accordance with approved standards and/or local SWCD specifications. Provide cost/benefit analyses for urban land conservation techniques and implementation that may be applicable to individual sites or area-wide plans. Develop site conservation plans for landowners and land managers. Help landowners identify financial incentives for recommended activities. Sit on advisory groups to help guide partnership efforts. Page 2 of 7

3 3.2 Work with jurisdictions Work with local, state and federal agencies (e.g., SWCDs, DEQ, Metro, local city and county planners) to determine and agree upon a non-regulatory, complementary role for EMSWCD s Urban Land Conservationist to aid in sustainable development, identify priority areas for collaboration, and to coordinate efforts. Become familiar with the federal, state, county, and city regulations and permit requirements for the urban areas within the EMSWCD. In some cases, work with jurisdictions to remove barriers and come to favorable conclusions that benefit both the resources and the constituents Cost Share Assistance: Help land-owners/developers/managers access cost share assistance available through EMSWCD and other sources: a) Provide technical assistance recommendations; b) Develop site conservation plans c) Work with landowners to estimate the time and materials needed to install conservation practices; d) Assist landowners with application forms and contracts; e) Ensure that cost share program guidelines are followed; f) Help landowners use receipts and other documentation to fill out and submit reimbursement forms. 3.4 Project Management: Identify and assess the need for, develop, lead, and manage complex, multi-year, multi-partner projects. Plan and prioritize work based on seasonality, site access, annual work plans, strategic plan, landowner/developer/manager willingness, budget, and other factors. 3.5 Project Site Monitoring and Follow Up: Identify and utilize methods for tracking project success. Compile pre- and post-project data for reports and plans. Take or gather before/after photos, conduct site visits to inspect and advise on installation of practices, and conduct follow-up to assess the success and maintenance of installed practices and identify problems that may need to be addressed. 3.6 Team Member: This position is part of the Urban Lands Program of the EMSWCD. As such, the position will: Coordinate all activities with other members of the Urban Lands Program; Collaborate and provide expert advice on an as-needed basis to other EMSWCD staff; Work as an integral team member on external groups. The position will also provide input to the Urban Lands Program Supervisor, EMSWCD Executive Director, and EMSWCD Board of Directors regarding program direction for the next fiscal year. This may include identifying potential funding sources and participating in grant writing. 3.7 Information Management and Reporting: Utilize computer technology and programs to plan for activities and maintain accurate, detailed records of activities, using district, state and federal databases and relevant spreadsheet analyses. Page 3 of 7

4 Write progress reports for EMSWCD purposes, for project partners and for program funders using relevant formats. 3.8 Present Workshops, Presentations, and Program Materials: Develop workshop materials and conduct programs to inform and instruct residents (landowners/-developers/residents/managers, businesses and non-profit organizations) in conservation practices. Create and deliver presentations at appropriate venues and meetings to reach urban target audiences (including landowners/developers/managers, builders, architects, consultants, and realtors) to increase interest in and adoption of urban land conservation best practices. 3.9 Represent EMSWCD: The Senior Urban Conservationist may represent EMSWCD on local, statewide, regional, and national committees, work groups, management teams, and other efforts that serve to plan for, evaluate, and/or report on topics of EMSWCD interest. SECTION 4: EDUCATION/TRAINING, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES 4.1 Qualifications Four years of college level education (Master degree preferred) focused on urban-related natural resource management or conservation development, or a related field. A combination of relevant education and work experience may substitute for the educational requirement. Six (6) years minimum field-based or related experience; at least three years of experience must be in the design, construction and/or installation and inspection of conservation-related sustainable urban land development practices. Extensive knowledge of the selection and installation of urban conservation practices. Experience leading, coordinating and monitoring project activities with landowners/developers/managers, residents, government agencies and/or community organizations. Experience working with diverse populations. Desire and ability to provide services equitably and fairly amongst the District s diverse communities. Must be proficient in English (oral and written) for communicating with District Board members, District staff, partner staff, and members of the public. 4.2 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Desired High level of technical knowledge of resource conservation management principles, methods, and techniques. Ability to plan for and recommend conservation practices which may include planting of riparian buffers, invasive plant control, stormwater management, erosion control, and other conservation practices. o In-depth knowledge of common invasive plants with the ability to give direction regarding the use of Integrated Pest Management techniques for prevention and control purposes. In-depth knowledge of local native plants with the ability to give guidance as to their proper planting and care. o Expert knowledge and skill in: soil and water conservation; management of riparian areas, wetlands and other natural areas; sustainable urban lands development; and green building principles, methods and techniques. o In-depth experience with sustainable urban design, construction, and landscaping principles, methods, and techniques. Skill and/or ability to install storm water management facilities, grey water systems, water catchment systems, drip irrigation Page 4 of 7

5 systems, living walls, erosion control materials, porous paving, soft shoulders, green roofs, and other urban lands conservation practices. o Knowledge of urban parcel development, landscaping, and conservation materials, costs, and local suppliers. Additional consideration will be given for knowledge of specific federal, state and local development and building permit requirements. o Knowledge of and experience with site conservation planning (NRCS or other) is desired. Ability to take an adaptive, problem-solving approach to the work, while also consulting with District staff and partner staff to ensure compliance with District, federal, state, and local jurisdiction guidelines. The Urban Lands Conservationist may often be required to work collaboratively with jurisdictions to come to favorable conclusions that benefit both the resources and the constituents. Ability to formulate and execute a work plan which will meet the program objectives. This includes the ability to strategically set priorities, goals and timetables as well as to adapt to changing circumstances, assess effectiveness, and improve performance as needed. Advanced interpersonal skills required to communicate and work effectively with a variety of individuals and entities, including, district staff, board members, and residents, as well as agency representatives, field crews, etc. Excellent written and oral communication skills sufficient to discuss and report on urban lands conservation issues, for both technical and non-technical audiences. Possession of computer skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel to track accomplishments. Knowledge of and experience with GPS and GIS technology and software is highly desired. Ability to work with a wide variety of staff, partners, landowners, residents, developers, landscape contractors, architects, realtors, construction firms, planners, and project sites. Must possess skill with customer service and a proven ability to initiate and maintain trusting, collaborative professional relationships with individuals and groups. Excellent judgment and the proven ability to navigate a complex landscape of regulation, jurisdiction, economic and political interests without alienating potential partners. Proficiency in multiple languages desired. SECTION 5: WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS 5.1 Work Environment The position involves frequent travel to project sites to meet with landowners, residents, partners, developers, crews, etc. It may require walking long distances across sloped, uneven terrain, sometimes in inclement weather andinvolves bending, lifting, and stretching. In some cases, the Senior Urban Conservationist may work alongside the landowner or labor crew to perform the physical work of measuring, laying out, and installing conservation practices. The employee must be able to lift 50 pounds from the ground and load/unload heavy, cumbersome objects. The work involves regular exposure to construction equipment and possible exposure to herbicides and pesticides. Protective gear and clothing such as a hard hat, boots, and gloves may be necessary. The Senior Urban Conservationist will have an assigned desk, telephone, and computer at the EMSWCD. The District office is the primary work station for this position, and is a smoke-free and drug-free environment. Attendance at evening meetings is required. Occasional overnight travel to attend conferences and trainings may be required. Page 5 of 7

6 5.2 Requirements To perform the duties of this position, the Senior Urban Conservationist must serve as an incidental motor vehicle operator. This requires the operation of a motor vehicle on both public and private roads during daylight hours and occasionally after dark, including inclement weather. A valid driver s license is required. The employee must have access to his/her own vehicle and must maintain insurance to comply with Oregon law. Mileage will be reimbursed for use of a personal vehicle. State motor pool vehicles are available on a first-come, first-served/check-out basis. FlexCar (or similar) vehicle may be available on occasion. The position requires travel throughout east Multnomah County. Occasional out of state travel may be required. See also Physical Demands and Work Environment section of this job description. 5.3 Guidelines Performance of assigned duties is completed in accordance with established procedures. Procedures that cover the assigned work include District annual work plans; EMSWCD plans, policies and procedures, NRCS engineering handbook, technical standards, specifications and supplements; cost-share program requirements; soil survey data; aerial photos and GIS data; and textbooks on soil and water conservation. The Senior Urban Conservationist must exercise a high degree of initiative and experienced judgment to assist landowners/managers with installing practices, inspect the installation, and provide sufficient follow-up to assess the success of practices. Where procedural guidance is insufficient, referral is made to the appropriate NRCS, SWCD, or partner specialist. 5.4 Complexity The Senior Urban Conservationist must work as an integral member of the Urban Lands team by coordinating and sharing information and resources with Urban Lands program staff to accomplish the program objectives. The employee may run into complications, such as conflicting guidelines and policies among federal, state, and local governing bodies, and/or incompatible objectives among various user groups. The employee must be versatile and skillful in responding to new and changing environmental conditions, regulatory requirements, and modification of previously agreed-upon plans and conclusions. 5.5 Contacts Soil and Water Conservation District staff and board members USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service technical advisors Private and public landowners Conservation groups, individuals, and organizations Local, regional, state and federal government agencies Citizen/community groups Landscape professionals Watershed Councils and other Local non-profit groups University/college staff, extension and graduate students Foundations Public lands managers Developers and realtors Contractors, designers, and architects Consultants Media reporters, editors Page 6 of 7

7 SECTION 6: SUPERVISION AND PERFORMANCE REVIEW 6.1 Supervision The Senior Urban Conservationist will work independently, but under the direction of the Urban Lands Program Supervisor regarding work objectives, activities, and timelines. The Conservationist will plan and implement his/her own daily work as well as collaborate with the planning and implementation of work associated with the broader Urban Lands Program and EMSWCD. SECTION 7: APPLICATION INFORMATION Applicants must read the information below carefully for instructions on how to apply for this position. Failure to follow instructions will disqualify applicants from consideration. For more information, see: To apply: 1. Applicants must send a cover letter, detailed resume and supplementary information by to: jobs@emswcd.org. 2. All subject lines must include Senior Urban Conservationist. 3. Covers letters must be no more than two pages in length and must describe the applicant s interest in the position, and summarize job-related qualifications. 4. Resumes must include: positions held; dates employed; employer names and contact information; ending salaries for each position held; duties performed at each position; and relevant training and education. 5. Five professional references with contact information must be provided, including at least two supervisors. 6. A writing sample (preferably a natural resource-related plan), for which the applicant was the primary author, must be submitted with application materials. Note that prior to employment with the EMSWCD: Verification of employment and education will be required. Verification that applicant is able to work within the United States will be required. A background check will be completed. References will be contacted. Nothing in this document is to be construed as a contract; EMSWCD is an at-will employer. The East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (EMSWCD) prohibits discrimination in all of its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisals, or because all or part of an individual s income is derived from any public assistance program. EMSWCD is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication or program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact the District Office at 503/ Page 7 of 7