Job Description
The Erie Conservation District is seeking an energetic team member to assist with our habitat design projects and wildlife programs. The essential duties and responsibilities of the Technician include but are not limited to project development, survey, and design support for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife as well as providing education and technical assistance for wildlife conservation and management.
- This position is partially funded through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife Wetland Technician and Wildlife Specialist agreements.
Essential Functions
- Develop design plans for projects identified in the Annual Plan of Work in coordination with engineering oversight as needed
- Conduct site visits and characterizations for projects listed in the approved annual work plan
- Plan and perform topographic surveys
- Observe appropriate NRCS and District requirements and obtain appropriate approval on all recommendations that involve engineering calculations or NRCS specifications
- Provide regular updates to and coordination with ODNR and the Board of Supervisors
- Develop and implement an Annual Plan of Work(s) in coordination with the Private Lands Program Administrator and DOW District 2 Wildlife Management Supervisor
- Develop and maintain a working relationship with ODNR-DOW Wildlife Officer, Wildlife Management Consultant, Wildlife Management Supervisor, and Private Lands Program Administrator
- Provide technical assistance and education to individual landowners including: Human/wildlife conflicts resolution assistance, wildlife habitat implementation, enhancement, and management
- Promote and assist with local, state and federal wildlife programs and initiatives
- Assist landowners with implementation of conservation plans for habitat programs on private lands, often associated with Federal Farm Bill Programs
- Provide or assist with Investigation/Evaluation of animal damage complaints and wildlife nuisance issues. Issue Deer Damage Control Permits, as warranted. Work directly with the county Wildlife Officer as directed or warranted
- Assist partnering agencies such as DOW and NRCS for contract reviews, surveys, and other data collection as requested
- Stay informed on available resources through current NRCS, ODA, ODNR, and other partners in the effort to carry out the District’s program mission and goals
- Assist with the various District programs, such as education and outreach events or natural resource survey/monitoring
- Develop and provide public education for wildlife and local conservation issues including presentations, articles, fact sheets, social media posts, website content, etc.
- Assist in identifying revenue sources and obtaining funding for education or conservation improvements
Other duties and responsibilities not mentioned will evolve. The Board of Supervisors does not hold this job description to be “all encompassing” and maintains the right to develop other areas of responsibility as deemed necessary. This position is offered on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
Education
- A minimum of an Associate’s Degree from an accredited university in natural resources, environmental science, biology, agriculture, or a closely related field
- Or, have demonstrated the equivalent in experience and knowledge
Skills
- Basic computer competency with knowledge of computer applications, such as Microsoft Office, e-mail and internet/web-based applications
- Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Field Apps
- Understand topography, soil types, aerial photography, and geographic features in order to complete conservation practices and plans
- Working knowledge of engineering and surveying instruments as part of a field team to survey land areas for proposed conservation practices and plans
- Ability to utilize survey data to design soil and water conservation engineering plans and specifications using AutoCAD software (Civil 3D)
General
- Must maintain a valid Ohio driver’s license, insurance, good driving record, and be able to operate motor vehicles during daylight and evening hours, on both public and private roads
- Must communicate effectively in English using both written and oral forms
- Must maintain a clean and neat appearance consistent with the public contact aspect of the position
- Must possess personal qualities to be able to work effectively with the general public
- Have a working knowledge of District philosophy, programs, responsibilities, and authorities
- Understand the responsibilities and authorities of the Erie SWCD Board of Supervisors and employees
- Must be willing to attend night meetings and overnight travel for training on occasion
- Must be willing and able to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions
- Must follow the District employment policies and all local, state, and federal regulations
- Provide assistance to the public in a non-discriminatory manner
- Must be self-motivated and possess organizational skills, be a team player, possess a positive attitude, and a desire to build and sustain effective partnerships with likeminded agencies, organizations, or citizens groups
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 – $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits include: Healthcare (medical/vision/dental), life insurance; Ohio Public Employees Retirement Plan, paid time off, professional development assistance
Interested candidates may submit their resume to Bhohman@eriecounty.oh.gov
no later than 5pm on January 31st, 2025.