Job Description

AGRICULTURAL ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The Agricultural Environmental Technician performs specialized technical responsibilities designed to aide landowners in making cost-effective, science-based decisions while protecting natural resources. The incumbent will have considerable responsibility in planning, coordinating, and implementing Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) and/or a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) under the guidelines of local and New York State regulations. This position will support the district’s efforts through best management practices, education and outreach. Incumbents work under general supervision with wide leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

• Provides assistance to landowners, government agencies, community and team members to comply with Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) and/or Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) guidelines;
• Assists in the planning and implementation of Tier Illa Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) plans for agricultural operations grant programs as required by the District Field Manager;
• Provides technical assistance to landowners by identifying and addressing environmental concerns to operate more sustainably;
• Provides assistance in the areas of aquatic ecosystems, fisheries, aquatic vegetation and both organic and inorganic chemical elements commonly associated with non-point source pollution;
• Visits landowners to determine specific agricultural Best Management Practices for control of non-point source pollution;
• Plans and assists in the development of agricultural waste management systems and the potential effects of surface and ground water supplies;
• Researches and recommends policies and codes for local compliance and sustainable watershed management;
• Develops and maintains public relations with regards to Agricultural Environmental Management;
• Attends meetings held by conservation partners, other agencies, municipalities and groups or organizations as requested;
• Plans and administers educational outreach programs;
• Assists in preparing grant proposals and activities required for the implementation of grants and other special programs;
• Utilizes computer applications for data analysis, reporting, and planning, including Global Positioning Systems GPS), Geographical Information Systems (GIS), spreadsheets, and word processing software.
• May operate survey equipment, tractors with attachments and other field related equipment.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Working knowledge of the principles and practices of natural resource conservation with emphasis on water quality and AEM planning; working knowledge of Geographical Information Systems (GIS); ability to effectively deal with the public; ability to compile and prepare written reports; ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; ability to use computers and current technologies; tact; courtesy; integrity; physical condition commensurate with the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and either:

A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college with an Associate’s degree or higher in agricultural or environmental sciences, civil or environmental engineering, landscape architecture, environmental studies, biological sciences, or related field and one (1) year of full-time work experience in agricultural OR

B. Three (3) years of full-time work of experience as listed in A above; OR

C. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT:

Possession at time of application, appointment and during service in this classification, of a valid NYS Motor Vehicle Operator's license appropriate for the types of vehicles which the employee may operate.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

$22.75 - $25.03/hour - Dependent upon experience and skills. Full health insurance, vision & dental; NYS Retirement, and optional NYS Deferred Compensation Investment Plan; Paid Holidays, Accrued Vacation and Sick Time.

ADDITIONAL NOTE:

This position is a Civil Service position for which the initial appointment will be as a provisional (pending examination). The incumbent will be required to take and pass a Civil Service examination and to achieve a high enough exam score to be reachable for appointment from the exam eligible list.

CONTACT:

Please mail Resume, Application and Letter of Interest to: David Spann, Chautauqua County Soil & Water Conservation District, 220 Fluvanna Ave Suite 100, Jamestown, NY 14701, or email to dspann@soilwater.org, by 4:00 PM on February 20th, 2026. You can find the application on our website at

Pay: $22.75 - $25.03 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

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