Conservation Scientist for Restoration Projects

The Walla Walla County Conservation District (WWCCD) is seeking an entry-level full-time conservation scientist for stream restoration projects.

The District has a talented team of passionate and committed people who are mission-driven and care deeply about serving and improving our community. Our dynamic organization is led by volunteer board members and paid staff members who help landowners implement “on the ground conservation”. The successful candidate will work closely with local landowners, coworkers, and conservation partners to develop and implement conservation plans specific to each landowner’s needs.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities

• A bachelor’s degree in natural resources, sciences, or a related field.
• Must have great verbal/written communication skills for grant writing, technical reports, and project correspondence. Must maintain accurate records, be self-motivated, and work positively in groups and independently.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and provide a clean driving record at the time of hire. Must be able to pass security and drug screening to work in a federal building.
• Understanding of natural resource priorities as they relate to salmon recovery, water quality, agriculture viability, and climate resilience.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of NRCS conservation planning principles
• Ability to import data, analyze data sets, and develop maps and other graphic depictions of plans using a combination of ArcGIS (highly preferred) and Microsoft EXCEL.
• Strong public speaking skills with the ability to effectively present to large audiences and garner support for programs.
• Skills in strategically managing large and complex projects as well as programs to determine next steps and proactively move things forward.
• Experience in bringing diverse partners together to develop multi-benefit solutions to challenges.
• Knowledge and ability in conflict management and negotiation.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal partners, ordinances, and regulations.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Working conditions may include office and outdoor environments. Applicant must be able to physically perform tasks in the field by traversing uneven ground in varied weather conditions and occasionally carrying up to 30 pounds of equipment and/or materials.  Work requires finger dexterity and must be able to use office equipment and computer software. This is a full-time position consisting of 40 hours/week (negotiable). The position will require some work in the evenings or after regularly scheduled work hours.

Licenses, Certificates, and Requirements

Copies of college transcripts, professional certifications, training, and a valid driver’s license will be required at the time of hire.

Compensation and Benefits:

This position will be filled at the Conservation Scientist level with a wage of $18/hour. Candidates may be considered at a higher pay scale depending on their level of experience that aligns with the job description. The permanent employee benefits package includes paid holidays, vacation leave, sick leave, employer-paid medical insurance of the employee, an employer contribution to a Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE IRA), optional participation in the State of Washington Retirement System (DCP), and an annual training allotment. As with all positions at the WWCCD, employment is contingent on grant funding and may change depending on state and federal budget allocations.