To Apply
Please send a cover letter, resume and three references to Kimberly Summers, HR Liaison, at kmsummers@co.pg.md.us by May 28.
Overview of Position – Click Here to Download the Full PDF or view the Indeed listing here
(One Year Contractual Position – $56,000 annual salary)
The Soil Conservation & Water Quality Planner will provide Soil Conservation & Water Quality Plans (SCWQPs) and conservation technical assistance to farmers in Prince George’s County. The Planner will work with Prince George’s Soil Conservation District (District) staff, the Department of the Environment, and partners, to develop SCWQPs for the County’s Climate-Smart Local Producers Program, funded through United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition, the Planner will work with staff from the District, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA), to complete SCWQPs and Concept Conservation Plans through funding from a National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) Technical Assistance Grant.
The Planner will engage in NRCS’ 9 step planning process as well as assist the NRCS District Conservationist, Ag Conservation Program Manager, and Urban Ag Conservation Program Manager with preparing farmers for enrollment in NRCS financial incentive programs including, but not limited to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and other cost-share avenues as applicable. The Planner will also work with MDA’s Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share (MACS) Program and Small Farm and Urban Agriculture Program.
This position requires a considerable degree of independent judgment and initiative in completing complex work assignments. In addition, the Planner will be required to participate in District/Partner meetings, events, and outreach. The Planner will participate in NRCS and MDA training opportunities to further their knowledge in conservation planning and work toward becoming a Certified Conservation Planner.
Key Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Agronomy, or a related field
- Experience working with farmers and food system stakeholders in diverse communities
- Ability to drive District vehicles to site visits, meetings, and outreach events
- Maintain a positive attitude and diplomatic approach in presenting programs and ideas
- Ability to provide concise and clear written and oral plans and reports in a timely fashion
- Proficient in use of software suites such as Microsoft Office and Adobe products and planning software including but not limited to: ARC GIS, PG Atlas, Web Soil Survey, PracticeKeeper, and Conservation Desktop
- Willingness and ability to work outside in inclement weather
Requirements
- Must possess a valid Driver’s License and provide a current copy of your driving record prior to offer of employment
- Must pass background check for use of federal network