Employment Opportunities

Kalamazoo County Conservation District

Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) Technician

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Kalamazoo Conservation District (KCD) is seeking to hire a full-time (40 hours/week) MAEAP Technician.  This position serves Kalamazoo County.  The focus of this position is to assist farmers to voluntarily prevent or minimize agriculture pollution risk on farms of all sizes and commodities. The ideal candidate will have experience with agriculture and familiarity with best practices.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Deliver on-farm technical assistance using risk assessments, education, and conservation plans to implement best practices, develop Improvement Action Plans, and suggest cost share to assist in adoption of low risk practices.
• Enter program data into the MAEAP database in a timely manner to keep it current.  This data includes Tier I information, leads, field visits, technical assistance, and field day events.
• Schedule and collect water samples, as assigned by Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).  Standard operating procedures must be followed and proper use of required equipment is expected.
• Coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to help reduce identified environmental risks and help landowners make progress toward MAEAP verification, and re-verifications.
• Provide assistance, as appropriate, to individuals with verified Right to Farm complaints.
• Work closely with local Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) staff to understand and help implement practices available to landowners through Farm Bill programs.
• Collaborate with and support KCD activities by organizing and assisting with workshops, events, and meetings to reinforce the importance of sustainable agriculture and natural resource conservation.

EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE

• A four-year agriculture or natural resources related degree from an accredited college or university.  Relevant experience working in on-farm crop or livestock production may be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.
• Two or more years of experience in agriculture, environmental, or natural resources is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of and experience working with agricultural producers and agricultural practices is preferred.
• Experience collaborating, developing, and delivering agriculture education programs to a variety of audiences in diverse settings is very beneficial. Previous experience in public speaking is preferred.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and have a reliable personal vehicle. Must pass a Federal Background Security Check.

COMPENSATION

Wages will be commensurate with education and experience and range from $20-22 per hour with potential to increase based on continued training and certifications.  Regular work hours are Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  These hours consist of field work, office work, and the possibility of home office work (with approval).  Current benefits include paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.  Use of personal vehicle will be reimbursed at the IRS mileage rate.

TO APPLY

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts, and a list of at least 5 references (all documents must be sent in PDF form and file name must begin with the applicant’s last name) to kalamazooconservation@gmail.com or mail to Elizabeth Rochow, Kalamazoo Conservation District, 5950 Portage St, Suite B, Portage, MI 49002.  Official transcripts may be requested at the time of the interview.

Applications must be received by January 13, 2022.