NATURAL RESOURCES SPECIALIST (Assistant State Conservationist for Partnerships and Initiatives)

The Natural Resources Specialist position at the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Little Rock, AR, leads partnerships and initiatives for conservation efforts. Responsibilities include advising leadership, coordinating training, managing outreach, and supervising staff. Candidates must have relevant experience and education in natural resource management. The job offers federal employee benefits and potential for telework within the local area, but is primarily based onsite.
About the position

The Natural Resources Specialist serves as the state lead for Partnerships and Initiatives within the Department of Agriculture, specifically located in Little Rock, Arkansas. This role focuses on aiding agricultural producers with conservation planning and application, ensuring productive lands coexist with a healthy environment. The position emphasizes service, partnerships, and technical excellence in its operations.

Responsibilities
• Informs and advises the Director and Leadership Team on various technical issues associated with the design, implementation, and evaluation of conservation systems and practices.
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• Represents the Director at key partnership meetings as assigned.
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• Monitors work progress, including adherence to methods and procedures, prioritization, development of assignments, and schedules.
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• Coordinates the statewide training plan to ensure personnel are adequately qualified to perform assigned tasks and develop their skills.
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• Coordinates with public affairs staff of NRCS and partners to coordinate communications and marketing efforts.
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• Maintains a communication network among various conservation partners, agriculture organizations, state natural resource agencies, and other federal conservation agencies.
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• Leads the coordination of statewide outreach, civil rights, and Tribal relations efforts.
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• Develops and manages assigned partnership agreements and grants supporting conservation efforts.
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• Provides oversight and supervision to subordinate staff, assigning and reviewing work to ensure timely performance.

Requirements
• Must be a US Citizen or US National.
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• Males born after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service registered or exempt.
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• Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period unless previously served.
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• Must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or higher in Federal service.
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• Basic Education Requirement: Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines.
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• Specialized experience includes implementation of conservation programs, establishing statewide program priorities, fund management, and coordinating conservation outreach programs.

Nice-to-haves

Benefits
• Comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee.
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• Relocation expenses may be authorized as allowable by Federal Travel Regulations and USDA policy.
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• Eligibility for telework within the local commuting area.