GENESEE COUNTY

CONSERVATION DISTRICT MANAGER

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:This is an administrative position responsible for overseeing, coordinating, administering, implementing, and supervising various kinds of conservation and natural resources practices through Soil and Water Conservation District Programs. The Conservation District Manager is responsible for the planning and execution of programs involving private and public properties and other entities in all aspects of natural resource management, including both administrative and technical phases. Work is performed under the direction of the Board of Directors of the Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation District. Supervision is exercised over district employees. The incumbent will perform all related duties as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

Supervise and manage all personnel activities, including field work and training. Conducts weekly staff meetings. Prepare job descriptions and assist with the hiring of employees. Address all other matters related to personnel under the direction of the Board of Directors;

Coordinate all SWCD activities with agencies assisting SWCD, including but not limited to USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Farm Service Agency, NYS Soil & Water Conservation Committee, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, local municipalities, Water Quality Coordinating Committee, and the county legislators;

Works closely with the agricultural community and local municipalities;

Provide the Board of Directors with information for decision making. Analyze workload; make recommendations for allocation of personnel and equipment;

Assist the Board of Directors in developing a long-range plan and an annual Plan of Work based on natural resource conservation needs and priorities;

Prepare an annual SWCD budget under the direction of the Board of Directors. Present the budget to the county legislators;

Responsible for all necessary district reports and administrative reports as are required under District Law;

Write and administer grant proposals for programs to address natural resource conservation needs, including development of work plans, design, cost estimates, contract preparation, oversight of implementation and construction inspection, and documentation. Negotiate contracts. Provide grant implementation oversight and fulfill contract requirements. Prepare reports per contract;

Conduct  public information/education programs to explain the purpose, functions, and programs of the SWCD;

Oversee the coordination and implementation of District programs;

Oversee the collection of data and assist in developing conservation management plans to abate nonpoint source pollution on agricultural and non-agricultural plans;

Coordinate, oversee, and perform technical field work as necessary with technical staff;

Assist with supervision and technical guidance of conservation district work crews as required. Work with local water resource groups, including but not limited to local watershed groups;

Present a monthly Manager’s Report to Board of Directors.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND/OR PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Good knowledge of public and/or business administration;  

Working knowledge of grant writing, contract administration, and contract negotiation;

Working knowledge of the principles and practices of natural resources conservation with emphasis on soil and water conservation;

Ability to coordinate, organize, plan, and prioritize workload;

Dependable, enthusiastic, and good interpersonal skills;

Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally, Including public speaking;

Ability to accurately prepare budgets;

Ability to understand and fulfill written and oral instructions;

Ability to supervise staff;

Good physical condition and manual dexterity, able to lift fifty pounds.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  Graduation from high school or possession of an appropriate equivalency diploma recognized by the NYS Department of Education AND EITHER:

A.  Graduate from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture science, agricultural economics, agricultural engineering, environmental engineering, environmental policy, civil engineering, natural resource conservation, natural science or a closely related field AND three years of professional experience in a natural resource conservation field;

OR:

B.  Graduate of a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an associate’s degree in agriculture science, agricultural economics, agricultural engineering, environmental engineering, environmental policy, civil engineering, natural resource conservation, natural science or a closely related field AND five years of professional experience in a natural resource conservation field;

OR:

C.  An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B) above.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:  A valid New York State driver’s license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained for the duration of employment. Must be able to pass a Federal background check.

Competitive Class