Soil and Water Conservation District - Soil & Water - Project Manager-Soil/Water

Under the direction of the Director of the Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Watershed Project Manager adopts and implements agricultural and urban soil and water conservation practices while increasing public awareness of related local, state, and federal programs. This role is responsible for utilizing remote moisture sensors and unmanned aerial multispectral photography (drones) as part of the District’s “Smart Soils Initiative,” which uses remote sensing technology to optimize agricultural management practices. This position is governed by the policies outlined in The Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Employee Handbook, and continued employment is contingent upon ongoing grant funding.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible for providing direct technical assistance to landowners and farmers on conservation practices and programs.
• Works in the field, possibly over rough terrain with heavy equipment to complete duties in cooperation with partnering agencies.
• Develops geo-referenced databases of existing conservation practices and other related information within assigned watersheds.
• Works in or around waterways to collect samples in all weather.
• Compiles and evaluates adequacy of existing water quality and related natural resource data pertaining to respective watersheds and their tributaries in Indiana.
• Works with agricultural retailers, local organizations, agency and company representatives as well as other key information multipliers to promote conservation systems and management practices that reduce the amount of sediment, nutrients, pathogens and pesticides reaching the assigned watersheds and their tributaries.
• Meets regularly with Steering Committees and/or Board of Directors to update on project status and determine further course of action.
• Assists the Project Partners with conducting summer field days and/or winter meetings that promote agricultural conservation best management practices as well as local assistance programs.
• Develops and disseminates news articles and program brochures to Project Partners and local media that encourage landowners and farmers to implement agricultural conservation practices and increase the awareness of local, state and federal programs that support said practices with technical and/or financial assistance.
• Assists the Project Partners with conducting Focus Group meetings of landowners, farmers, business owners, government agency personnel, local government officials, non-government organizations and concerned citizens regarding water quality related issues in the assigned watersheds.
• Prepares and submits required project status reports, financial reports, final report, etc. as required by the Project Partners and/or the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
• Works in the field to collect water samples in all weather; operates power tools, riding mower, and other equipment; assists partnering agencies with field work as needed.
• Performs all other duties as assigned, including overtime as required.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, or a related field, with at least one year of experience developing land use and/or natural resource management plans and public relations skills

REQUIREMENTS (Continued):

• Ability to clear the Federal Homeland Security background check
• Knowledge of agricultural practices, products, and terminology, particularly related to soil and water conservation activities
• Valid driver’s license to operate a County-owned vehicle
• Knowledge of urban water quality issues, including trends, impairment sources, and current and emerging conservation practices
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and the ability to create brochures and pamphlets
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office and GIS-based software, with the ability to type at least 30 words per minute

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:

The Watershed Project Manager is expected to effectively implement agricultural and urban soil and water conservation practices while fostering public awareness of relevant programs. The role requires utilizing advanced technologies, such as remote moisture sensors and unmanned aerial multispectral photography, to optimize agricultural management through the “Smart Soils Initiative.” The Manager must provide technical assistance to landowners, coordinate outreach efforts, and develop materials to promote conservation practices. Success in this position relies on strong communication and technical skills, collaboration with stakeholders, and the ability to analyze and manage data to support conservation goals.

RESPONSIBILITY:

The Watershed Project Manager oversees the implementation of soil and water conservation practices, offers technical guidance to landowners and farmers, and promotes conservation programs through outreach and education. The role also involves creating and distributing educational materials, coordinating field events and meetings, working with stakeholders to further conservation initiatives, and managing data collection and reporting to drive watershed improvement efforts.

PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:

The Watershed Project Manager maintains regular interaction with landowners, farmers, business owners, government agency personnel, local officials, non-government organizations, and concerned citizens to address water quality and conservation issues. This role requires effective collaboration with project partners, stakeholders, and community members to promote conservation practices, share technical expertise, and facilitate educational and outreach initiatives.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The Watershed Project Manager performs duties in both office and field environments, requiring frequent sitting, occasional standing, and walking over uneven terrain. The role involves lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, operating power tools, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. Tasks may include collecting water samples, using remote sensing equipment, and assisting with fieldwork alongside partner agencies. Additionally, the position requires frequent computer use, typing, and attention to detail for data analysis and reporting.

• Collecting water samples and using remote sensing equipment.
• Assisting with fieldwork in collaboration with partner agencies.
• Frequent computer use, including typing and data entry.

The description below outlines the physical requirements specific to the Watershed Project Manager’s role:

SUPERVISION:

None

LICENSING:

Valid Driver’s License to operate a County owned vehicle

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:

Director of Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District

HOURS:

8:00 am – 4:30 pm and as needed including occasional nights and weekends

EEO CATEGORY:

0602

WORKER’S COMP CODE:

9410

I agree that the contents of this job description are a fair and accurate representation of the duties of this position being described.