Conservation Agent

The Conservation Agent works under the general direction of the Conservation Administrator. Routinely functions on behalf of the Conservation Administrator in his/her absence. Exercises independent judgment in evaluating site conditions and compliance, within departmental policies and procedures. Refers unusual cases to supervisor.

Job Description:

Inspection, regulatory, and technical work in enforcing the provisions of conservation and wetlands protection laws and regulations, and in providing technical assistance to the Conservation Commission; all other related work as required.

Essential Duties Include:

Inspects and examines sites during construction to ensure compliance with wetlands protection laws, regulations and orders of conditions; initiates enforcement actions; identifies wetlands boundaries; issues cease and desist orders; prepares evidence and assists in the prosecution of non-criminal citations and complaints. Monitors wetland buffer restoration efforts from enforcement orders. Verify completeness of enforcement restoration requirements. Advises the Conservation Administrator and Commission of compliance-related findings. Prepares and presents Power Point presentations.

Reviews proposed site plans for potential impacts on environment and wetlands; prepares correspondence, documentation and reports in connection with regulatory and enforcement activities; attends Commission meetings and hearings as needed; performs follow up activities as directed; coordinates inspection and enforcement activities with other town departments.

Assists in managing the Town’s conservation lands by recommending and supervising maintenance and development projects. Assists in overseeing the land management budget. Assists Grant Coordinator/Planner in writing grant applications for Conservation land management projects. Monitor Conservation area trails and information kiosks.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in natural resources, environmental science, or related field; 3+ years of experience in conservation, natural resources or related field; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Class D drivers license required.

Additional Qualifications:

Thorough knowledge of Massachusetts conservation laws and Wetlands Protection Act.

Ability to make inspections and to identify plant types.

Strong communication skills. Proficiency in the use of computers including word processing, G.I.S., and database.

Physical Requirements:

Light to moderate physical effort required in making site inspections, which may occasionally require traveling over rough terrain and lifting of items over 30 pounds in weight.