The Conservation Technician provides field-based technical support to the Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District, assisting landowners and agricultural producers with implementing soil and water conservation practices. This role focuses on applying conservation methods, supporting USDA program participation, and conducting outreach to improve land and water management. The position includes mentorship from experienced District staff who provide training, assign tasks, and offer feedback to build technical skills.

This position is Not Covered (At-will) as defined by The Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Employee Handbook.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provides on-site technical assistance related to the installation and maintenance of best management practices (BMPs) that support soil health and water quality.
• Assists landowners and agricultural producers with enrollment and participation in USDA conservation programs such as EQIP, CSP, RCPP, and CRP.
• Manages assigned sub-projects under the direction of the Watershed Project Manager.
• Maintains accountability to landowners, producers, and event partners, and receives guidance and evaluation from the District Director.
• Coordinates with local partners, agency representatives, and agricultural retailers to support conservation efforts within priority watersheds.
• Uses GIS software and basic mapping tools to assist with project planning and documentation.
• Maintains accurate records of site visits, program participation, and landowner communications.
• Supports outreach efforts by helping plan and conduct educational field days, workshops, and public meetings focused on conservation practices.
• Creates and distributes informational materials such as brochures and newsletters to promote local, state, and federal conservation resources.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including required overtime.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or GED with at least two years of experience in developing and implementing land use and/or natural resource management plans, best management practices, and public engagement
• Valid driver’s license to operate a County-owned vehicle. Must be insurable for vehicle operation; may be required to use a personal vehicle
• Knowledge of agricultural and urban water quality issues, trends, impairment sources, and current and emerging conservation practices
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and creating outreach materials such as brochures and pamphlets
• Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office and related software

REQUIREMENTS - (Continued):

• Working knowledge of GIS-based software
• Ability to clear the Federal Homeland Security background check
• Ability to type 30 words per minute

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The Conservation Technician works in both office and field environments. Fieldwork involves exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, and agricultural settings. The position requires frequent walking, standing, bending, and lifting of equipment or materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Office duties include extended periods of computer use, data entry, and document preparation. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required for public outreach events or project deadlines.

• Conducts outdoor fieldwork in variable weather and terrain conditions.
• Lifts and transports conservation equipment and supplies (up to 50 lbs).
• Operates a vehicle for travel to field sites and partner locations.

The description below outlines the physical requirements specific to the Conservation Technician’s role:

SUPERVISION:

This position does not supervise other employees.

LICENSING:

No specific licenses are required.

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:

Director of Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District

HOURS:

Part-time (hours may vary); up to 30 hours per week, with additional hours as needed.

EEO CATEGORY:

0602

WORKERS’ COMP CODE:

9410

I agree that the contents of this job description are a fair and accurate representation of the duties of this position being described.

Employee Printed Name: ____________________________________________

Employee Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ____________________

Supervisor Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ____________________