Community Conservationist
Salary:
$24.52-$29.62 hourly
Closing Date:
July 10, 2026Minimum Qualifications:
Degree in natural resource management, environmental studies, conservation, biology, or related field. Minimum of two years’ experience working in the natural resource, conservation, or water quality field. Ability to plan, coordinate, and implement outreach activities and events for all audiences which may include Envirothon, natural resource events for youth, landowner workshops on natural resource topics, watershed coordination meetings, and the like. Must have prior project management experience. Ability to manage multiple projects and maintain a high level of efficiency. Understanding of conservation best management practices, native plants, stormwater management, and erosion and sediment control. Ability to prioritize efforts, delegate tasks, and efficiently manage time to accomplish a variety of tasks. Ability to work with landowners and people from other organizations, agencies, and groups in a professional manner. Ability to obtain NRCS JAA and other certifications related to Lake SWCD work. Have exemplary written and oral communications skills, demonstrate strong interpersonal skills. Valid Driver’s License.
Responsibilities:
Coordinate outreach, education, and community events/groups and implement conservation projects that align with watershed plan goals. Collaborate with partners to conduct conservation-based outreach. Lead outreach initiatives and events to local schools, stakeholders, and County residents Manage and coordinate the NE area Envirothon Conservation Implementation Provide direct support to landowners by conducting site visits to address natural resource concerns. Assist landowners by providing site specific recommendations and resources on best management practices (BMPs) to address natural resource protection and restoration goals. Collaborate with organizations, governmental agencies, and groups. Represent the District in committees and groups on activities related to conservation, soil health, climate, water quality, watershed planning, stormwater, watershed resiliency, and others as requested. Obtain and maintain education on design standards and best management practices for natural resource related project implementation through Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) job approval authority (JAA) in topics such as shoreline and riparian restoration, stormwater management, native vegetation establishment, and erosion control/restoration. Administration/Policy Write state and federal grants to enhance and support conservation work in the Lake Superior North and South Watersheds of Lake County. Implement Lake SWCD grant program according to workplans, grant contract, and budget. Prepare and submit required reporting and financial documents to grant funders. Collaborate with organizations, governmental agencies, and groups. Represent the District in committees and groups on activities related to conservation, soil health, climate, water quality, watershed planning, stormwater, watershed resiliency, and others as requested.
Work Test Period:
Background Check:
Applicants selected for appointment must pass a criminal background check.
Drug Testing:
Physical-Medical Standards:
Applicants must meet essential physical requirements of the position. Ability to perform site inspections and monitoring in various terrain which may involve hiking, boating, paddling, lifting, and carrying up to 50 pounds.
Employment Eligibility Verification:
All new employees must complete and sign employment eligibility verification form on the first day of employment. Documentation verifying identity and employment eligibility must be submitted within three days of the first day of employment.
Application Information:
Please email resume, cover letter and three references to tara.solem@co.lake.mn.us or mail a hard copy to: Lake County SWCD 408 First Avenue Two Harbors, MN 55616
Accommodation:
Applicants who wish to request accommodation to application process should contact Tara Solem (218) 834-8370
Non-Discrimination:
Lake SWCD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, sex, age, color, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, familial status, membership or activity in a local commission, genetic information, or any other protected classification. Applications will be accepted until July 10, 2026 at 4:30 P.M. We reserve the right to re-post the position if needed.