Watershed Conservation Planner

We are currently looking for a Full Time Watershed Conservation Planner to join our Area of Natural Resources team located at the Murray State College

• Ardmore working 8:00AM-5:00PM
• Mo Tu We Th Fr. Summary: Conservation Technical Assistance and Development of Watershed Conservation Plans Works with tribal citizens and other watershed landowners to develop conventional conservation plans addressing resource concerns; Works with NRCS State Office Biologist, Range Management Specialist, Oklahoma Conservation Commission and other wildlife partners to identify and assess current and potential watershed needs to target planning assistance and program efforts with the Chickasaw Nation. Performs on-site inventory and evaluations; coordinates with NRCS and assists in conducting preliminary surveys; and provides recommendations for feasible practices to solve resource concerns. Recommends practices to farmers and ranchers that help control erosion and conserve soil and water. Completes habitat appraisals and other essential inventories (including RAP Tool) in order to identify and address critical needs. Interprets soil survey data and plans soil management conservation practices, water quality/quantity improvements, evaluates grazing resources, permanent vegetation, and irrigation efficiency, to ensure soil health and water conservation. Evaluates the effects of land use alternatives on soil, water, plant, air and animal resources. Assists landowners in nutrient management and organic pest management. Develops wildlife habitat management, prescribed grazing and burn plans including all supporting documentation and practices specific for NRCS funding qualification. Gives technical guidance and assistance to cooperating landowners in making needed revisions to their conservation plans in coordination with NRCS. Works with farmers and non-farming landowners, developers and their technical staffs, planning commissions and others in the planning and application of land treatment measures. Provide communication of working lands conservation through annual landowner training workshops, field tours and seminars, with specific focus on prescribed fire, grazing lands and wildlife. Receives specific NRCS training in professional farm planning methods and procedures; soil interpretations and properties; and conservation application. Works directly with NRCS field offices to complete assigned plans using NRCS web-based programs. Assists with completing NRCS environmental assessment during conservation planning efforts. Completes Conservation Planning courses as part of requirement to become certified as a conservation planner by NRCS. Receives intensive and specialized training in all phases of the soil and water conservation programs, including information and education activities, maintains a working relationships with district/watershed organizations and other state, federal, and local groups within the Chickasaw Nation. Assists NRCS with Implementing Farm Bill Programs Understands all applicable NRCS and Farm Bill programs available to address resource concerns and explains federal cost-share programs to tribal citizens and other watershed landowners. Provides technical assistance to farmers and ranchers about Farm Bill conservation programs. Applies principles of agronomy, soil science, forestry, and agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives and ensure technical information transfer to land users, consultants, units of government and environmental groups that will be involved in solving resource problems. Fully utilizes computer and web-based programs in the documentation and management of conservation plans and technical assistance. Utilizes current technology including electronic data collection and geographic information systems to perform duties. NRCS Objectives and Programs Carries out various duties, which enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of soil conservation operations, carried out by the NRCS. Writes news articles and stories, conducts tours and speaks to groups. Works with NRCS District Conservationist to conduct environmental education on natural resource issues, water quality, and general conservation at workshops, seminars, fairs, and/or assist local Conservation District staff in these activities. Participates in meetings with NRCS District Conservationist to coordinate work. Communicates and works directly with landowners and operators through face-to-face contact, telephone, written correspondence or e-mail.

Responsibilities

• Provides first class customer service to both internal and external customers and responds to inquiries, compliments, and/or complaints with professionalism, courtesy, and efficiency * Completes all training and development requirements and participates in continuing education opportunities * Works in a collaborative and supportive manner to support the productivity and safety of the work area, team members and customers of all types

• Maintains a clean, organized work area and ensures a safe environment
• Maintains and promotes professionalism
• Punctual and consistent in meeting start time, work schedule, attendance and other assigned work time metrics
• Adheres to Chickasaw Nation dress code standards * Maintains knowledge of and follows all rules, regulations, policies and guidelines for assigned area * Preserving and protecting ancestral rights by promoting sustainable water resources * Improving land management practices on tribal and tribal priority lands * Implementing watershed best management practices focused on holistic ecosystem management approaches * In the performance of all job duties, must provide the best in professional service and support all Chickasaw Nation Departments with respect to their respective core functions * Provides support to NRCS field offices to accomplish resource management objectives * Participates as a member of an interdisciplinary team planning, developing and implementing land management plans, compliance documents, and agreements to facilitate multi-partner projects * Able to write environmental analyses, assist with high-level unit planning, and support implementation with modern science * Collects and analyzes field data, project, and landscape level planning input to carry out studies and field reviews * Maintains proficiency in application and technology transfer of state of the art monitoring systems and data analysis software including Geographic Information Systems evaluating best management practice implementations * As appointed, represent the Chickasaw Nation, CNDC, and NRO on appropriate boards, committees, and teams * Performs all other duties as assigned Competencies: Essential: * Strong projection of professionalism in appearance, demeanor, written and verbal communication * Ability to communicate effectively and work well with internal/external customers * Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other management, staff, contractors, customers, and the general public * Ability to work with minimal supervision * Possesses strong written and verbal communication abilities * Able to follow instructions, both written and oral * Able to adhere to all scheduling and attendance requirements * Must be self-motivated * Honesty, truthfulness, reliability, accountability * Able to read, understand, apply, and retain knowledge of Chickasaw Nation, departmental, divisional and all other rules, regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines * Knowledge and awareness of the departments and branches of the Chickasaw Nation and other tribal government systems * Able to verbally communicate in a professional and positive manner with other team members, departments, guests and management Skills: Experience: Nonessential: * 3 years directly related experience Education: Essential: * Bachelors Degree in directly related field Credentials: Essential: * Standard Driver's License * Pass gaming background check * Gaming license or permit as required by assigned position * Natural Resources Conservation Service * Job Approval Authority Essential: * NRCS partner employee (working as part of an NRCS, Oklahoma Conservation Commission, Oka’ Institute and Chickasaw Nation watershed agreement) will complete the NRCS Oklahoma Planning Course. Employee will work toward achieving a Level I planner designation within 18 months of entry on duty date. NRCS Level I designation requires completion of the following courses in Ag. Learn: Planning and Business Tools. Oklahoma NRCS will provide required courses. Technical training sessions will occur through OJT or specific training sessions. This may take an additional 6-12 months to complete beyond the designated Level I Planner. * After achieving the Level I designation, employee will work with NRCS to earn Job Approval Authority (JAA). JAA will be required before employee can individually plan and design conservation practices. JAA will be earned through demonstrating the knowledge, skills and abilities required for each practice. Working Conditions: Essential: * Must be able to sit or stand for long periods * Sometimes bend, kneel, stoop, push, reach * Required to work after hours or on weekends as scheduled * Strenuous activities under rigorous field conditions * Work is physically demanding * Pass pre-employment drug test Training *It is the responsibility of each employee to attend required training for their position or profession as determined by their line of support (LOS) or the leadership of the Chickasaw Nation. It is the responsibility of those who supervise, manage or otherwise lead employees or teams to ensure each employee has access to and receives all required training. Mission, Vision & Core Values Mission: *To enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people. Vision: *To be a nation of successful and united people with a strong cultural identity. Core Values: *The Chickasaw People *Cultural Identity *Servant Leadership *Selflessness *Can Do Attitude *Perseverance *Stewardship *Trust and Respect *Loyalty *Honesty and Integrity *Teamwork