Natural Resources Specialist

The Natural Resources Specialist is a partnership position between the Tennessee Aquarium and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to connect landowners with resources that support aquatic conservation on private lands. The primary responsibility of this position is to work with farmers and landowners in priority watersheds of the Ridges to Rivers Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) to promote conservation practices that reduce soil erosion.

Key Responsibilities

• 1.Effectively communicate and work with landowners and agencies to implement conservation practices on high priority streams to improve stream health for aquatic animals, especially rare mussels, and Laurel Dace.
• 2.Gather and compile planning data on agricultural sites to evaluate physical features.
• 3.Assist District Conservationists within the Ridges to Rivers RCPP Project Area with the development and implementation of NRCS conservation plans.
• 4.Partner with farmers and landowners to develop a systematic application schedule for practices included in the RCPP. Provide on-site technical assistance to landowners as necessary.
• 5.Communicate cost-share payment procedures to farmers and landowners, inspect properties, determine need and feasibility of conservation practices, advise onsite selections, perform layout work, and supervise construction of practices for which the NRCS has technical responsibility.
• 6.Assist NRCS staff with the certification of completed practices.
• 7.Provide information to farmers and landowners on the types of assistance available via Farm Bill and Partners for Fish and Wildlife programs, and programs available via local land trusts.
• 8.Assist with public outreach by providing guidance and policy for the application of practices. As appropriate, conduct practice demonstrations and discuss conservation practices on tours.
• 9.Utilize applicable NRCS survey tools and planning software to assist District Conservationists with data collection as requested through field offices.
• 10.Interface with conservation partners to maximize outreach and educational opportunities to farmers and landowners in the six-county RCPP area.
• 11.Present material on practice application and specifications at meetings as needed.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
• Land stewardship experience preferred.
• GIS experience preferred.
• Knowledge of NRCS Farm Bill programs and NRCS Conservation Practices preferred.
• Must currently hold or achieve Conservation Planner Certification of Level I Planner Status within the first 18 months of employment (certification program offered through NRCS).
• Knowledge of freshwater conservation issues.
• Computer skills and familiarity with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ArcGIS.
• Full-time, hourly (Starting at $19.63/hour); schedule will require Saturday and/or Sunday work.
• All submissions must be received by April 5th, 2024.
• The Tennessee Aquarium is an equal-opportunity employer committed to promoting an inclusive environment that values and supports diversity and equality among staff, volunteers, and all its audiences.
• For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below.
• Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.
• https://www.applicantpro.com/j/3281415-162629

Perks

• Comprehensive package of benefits including health,
• dental,
• vision,
• retirement with match and base,
• sick and vacation time, holiday pay, and more!

Salary

• 19.63 per hour