Soil Water Conservation District Technician

Position Summary The purpose of this position is to work with the landowners, communities and other units of government to promote, coordinate and implement the conservation projects and programs of McLeod Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). Supplemental:Seasonal opportunity (April 1–November 30); applicants with shorter availability will be considered. Internship-friendly. Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This role is seasonal and not eligible for benefits. The 2026 salary range is $23.59–$35.38 per hour, depending on experience and relevant previous work. Our organization values pay equity, and hiring at the top of the range is not typical. The first review of applications will be Friday, February 20, 2026. Communication and updates related to this position will be sent via email. Essential Functions/Responsibilities Duties listed are normal for this classification. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. Position Duties Conduct site investigations and provide professional technical advice and enrollment assistance to members of the public and landowners for all conservation programs, projects of the district and cost-share practices. Maintain a working knowledge of governmental agencies and statutes related to the soil and water conservation district’s practices and programs. Perform field work for the district as needed (e.g., easement site visits, cost share site work, water sampling well readings, landowner meetings, site investigations, etc.). Perform duties of the Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) and Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) including, but not limited to; landowner contact and applications, easement acquisition, practice installation and program compliance. Assist with the annual Tree Program and be familiar with tree identification, pests and diseases. Assist with the state cost share program. Work with other computer-related items such as the internet, spreadsheets, word processors and other software as needed or instructed. Ensure landowner designed projects meet all Federal, State and local standards and guidelines. Professionally represent the SWCD at landowner meetings and trainings. Observe safe work practices in the performance of duties. Assist with annual rental program. Non-Essential FunctionsAnswer telephone calls and respond to walk in customers. Assist other county departments and agencies as directed. Perform other SWCD plans and duties as assigned or apparent. Knowledge, Skills, AbilitiesAbility to operate, maneuver and/or steer equipment and machinery. Ability to maintain regular and timely work attendance. Ability to communicate effectively to convey or exchange professional information and accomplish the goals and objectives of established annual and long-range plans. Ability to make decisions recognizing established precedents and practices using resourcefulness and tact in solving problems. Ability to read and interpret a variety of professional, engineering, technical and administrative documentation, directions, instructions, methods and procedures. Ability to produce reports with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar. Ability to assist with educational programs, presentations, promotions, demonstrations, press releases, outreach efforts and newsletter articles as assigned by the District Manager. Ability to maintain records and data for district programs and projects as well as follow government program requirements for grant reporting and recordkeeping. Knowledge of SWCD and National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs and eligibility requirements. Ability to demonstrate technical knowledge and understanding of agricultural best management practices and common agricultural equipment and uses. Knowledge of land and engineering survey systems, methods and techniques. Ability to survey, design and analyze projects after construction. Knowledge of hydrology, drainage and water quality improvement techniques. Ability to work independently with minimal direct supervision and maintain confidentiality. Ability to learn new methods and techniques of conservation practices and programs. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and communicate courteously and tactfully. Ability to communicate technical jargon in a non-technical manner appropriate for the audience. Ability to perform computations and utilize mathematical formulas. Ability to utilize computer programs for project management, including survey equipment and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for the performance of essential duties. Ability to use functional reasoning, apply rational judgment, and exercise decisiveness and creativity in performing diversified work activities. Ability to work under varying weather and working conditions. Minimum QualificationsEducation and ExperienceExperience with soil data interpretation, conducting field surveys, designing/planning conservation projects and general hydrology concepts. Two-year post-secondary education in Agricultural Science, Natural Resources Management, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies or closely related field. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job. Required TrainingOSHA and safety training Required Certifications/LicensesValid Minnesota driver’s license with proof of insurance Preferred education and ExperiencePrefer a degree in Agricultural Science, Natural Resources Management, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies or closely related field. RelationshipsRegular interaction with County and State of Minnesota staff. Interaction with contractors, consultants, engineers, vendors and the public. Local, regional, state and federal agencies Supervisory ResponsibilitiesNone Working ConditionsWork is performed in an office setting, outdoors and at various sites within McLeod County. Work may be performed under conditions where exposure to environmental factors such as temperature variations and extremes, odors, toxic agents, noise, vibrations, machinery, wetness, electrical current, vehicular traffic, uneven terrain, construction site hazards and dust, may cause some discomfort and where risk of injury may be present. Physical Requirements Of This PositionAbility to coordinate eyes, hands, feet and limbs in performing highly skilled movements such as keyboarding, drafting instrument use, testing equipment use and equipment operation. Ability to exert very moderate physical effort in sedentary to light work; typically involving some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, lifting carrying, pushing and pulling. Desk work involving use of a computer, telephone, and other devices. Effective communication with County staff, County Board members, and citizens. Ability to read screens and documents. Ability to stand for extended periods of time at construction sites. Ability to drive in various light and weather conditions. Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. Equipment Required to Perform This JobTelephone, computer, calculator, phone, printer, fax machine and copier Motor vehicle Office equipment Printer/plotter Surveying instruments and distance measuring devices Construction materials testing equipment Van Dorn Water Sampler WSI Pro DSS or Similar Additional NotesAll positions at McLeod Soil & Water Conservation District are subject to a background check. This may include, but is not limited to, the following checks: criminal history, credit, driver’s license, pre-employment physical assessment, pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and psychological testing. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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