NRCS Conservation Program Manager

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Program Manager is the Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS) conservation

programs liaison of the District, reporting to the District Manager, and is responsible for

providing guidance in all matters relating to programs funded by the NRCS for conservation

services to local producers. With the District Manager, the Program Manager provides long-term

vision and direction for the Program consistent with the strategic plan, goals and objectives, and

policies established by the Board of the Directors.

Duties:

1. Actively seek out and write grant proposals that continue and maintain the work of the RCD at

the level of operations directed by the Board of Directors. Coordinate with the District Manager,

and other appropriate staff, in determining the scope and budget for any grant proposal to

ensure it fits with the mission, goals, and expertise of the RCD.

2. Act as the primary RCD representative to the Natural Resource Conservation Service local,

regional, state, and national offices.

3. Inspect and oversee program projects, ensuring budget, schedule, and scope are on time and

within grant guidelines.

4. Work with the District Manager to research grants, develop fee for service contracts, and foster

relationships with potential funders.

5. Ensure that statutes and government rules and regulations pertaining to or affecting District

operations are followed.

6. Work with the agriculture community and forested landowners and develop projects for potential

grant funding.

7. Identify, train, direct, and supervise Project Managers or Conservation Technicians in preparation

for project work.

8. Support and participate in the District’s educational and field activities.

9. Provide leadership and guidance to District personnel as necessary.

10. Support the District Manager in the preparation of contracts with funding sources, bid

documents, and contracts for contractor services and materials.

11. Maintain and enhance the RCD Board of Directors working relationships with appropriate

officials at the local, county, state, regional, and federal levels to further promote the needs and

objectives of the District.

12. Other duties as assigned by the District Manager.

Essential Experience and Desired Qualifications:

• Must have the Conservation Planning Role Designation with the NRCS.

• Must have supervisory experience.

• Must have reliable transportation and valid motor vehicle license.

• Knowledge of NRCS field office operations and procedures sufficient for partnering with the

local NRCS field and regional offices to manage NRCS funded project work.

• Knowledge of a wide variety of agroeconomic, engineering, hydrologic, biology, and

forestry concepts, principles, practices, and methodology sufficient to independently:

resolve natural resource problems related to the implementation of soil and water

conservation plans; modify and adapt standard process and procedures, recommend and

justify appropriate natural resource management strategies, and; provide technical advice

on natural resource conservation measures.

• Knowledge of soils properties and characteristics sufficient to interpret land use potential

and deficiencies and advise partner agencies and organizations, landowners and users.

• Knowledge of NRCS soil and water conservation programs, including eligibility

requirements for individuals and organizations for meeting participation and payment

requirement provisions, sufficient to provide technical advice to employees, partners,

landowners, and operators.

• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies governing all applicable cost-share assistance

programs to carry out program objectives.

• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies governing federal contracting procedures

sufficient to administer and manage NRCS contracting activities.

• Knowledge of efficient communications sufficient to market and provide guidance on soil

and water conservation methods, measures, and techniques to community groups and

rural landowners, users, and to respond to technical inquiries.

Working Conditions: This is a non-exempt full-time (40 hours per week) position. Offers flexible

hybrid schedule of in-office and remote work. Applicants must be primarily located in Fresno

County, or live within a reasonable driving distance. This position will require online meetings, in

person meetings, and site visits to farms, ranches, and forested landowners in Fresno County. Site

visits may include extensive walking with some physical exertion required.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Compensation range is $35-$45 per hour (approximately $72,800 - $93,600 annually) based

on experience and qualifications.

• Paid Personal Leave (80 hours annually)

• Paid Holidays (6 days)

• Paid Sick Leave (40 Hours)

• Health Benefits (Begins after 90 days of employment)

• Retirement Options

To Apply: OPEN UNTIL FILLED. Send letter of interest and resume to District Manager Kelly

Kucharski [email protected]