Watershed Technician

As a Conservation District employee, the Watershed Technician is a resource to both the public and private sectors. The general duties of the Watershed Technician are to provide technical, informational, and organizational assistance that will improve watershed organization development and the quality and quantity of the Commonwealth’s surface and groundwater resources. The focus of this work relates to watershed assessment and monitoring, procurement of funding, technical assistance, education, and outreach. The Watershed Technician is under the direct supervision of the Watershed Specialist and is accountable to the Conservation District Manager & Board of Directors., * Implement the Dirt & Gravel, Low Volume Road (DGLVR) Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance (ESM) Program.

• Implement the Exelon Habitat Improvement (EXHIP) Program, the Large Woody Debris (LWD) Removal Program, and the Headwaters Environmental Legacy (HELP-Streams) Program.
• Work with landowners, local watershed organizations, municipalities, and other stakeholders to promote water quality protection, floodplain management, stormwater management, etc. Inform them of the technical resources and funding opportunities that are available.
• Input data into PracticeKeeper as needed.
• Develop, implement, or support the implementation of watershed-based plans (WBPs) or similar restoration/protection strategies.
• Assist in the implementation of the York Countywide Action Plan (CAP), including serving on the Watershed Alliance of York (WAY), Inc. CAP Committees as needed.
• Encourage the design and implementation of water quality protection BMPs, watershed restoration projects, or assist with the development and implementation thereof.
• Assist with water quality and/or quantity monitoring. Become familiar with DEP’s ICE Protocol.
• Assist in the preparation and submittal of grant applications, reports, reimbursements, or other documents necessary to manage and obtain/maintain grant funding.
• Present trainings that promote watershed restoration, protection, or conservation by instructing attendees on these concepts.
• Produce educational training materials through traditional and contemporary media outlets promoting watershed awareness,
• Exhibit displays promoting watershed protection, conservation, and restoration in a public forum to direct the public to implement practices to restore or protect water resources.
• Attend training events as required by the Conservation District, and any training necessary to maintain or build upon knowledge, skills and abilities needed to perform the duties described herein.
• Prepare written monthly report of activities and serve on District Committees as assigned.
• Prepare articles for newsletter or annual report as requested.
• Attend staff and other meetings as requested.
• Work beyond normal working hours and on weekends when necessary.
• Other reasonable duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Bachelor of Arts or Science or Associate’s degree in Environmental Resource Management or related field.
• 2 years of work experience in the Environmental Resource field or equivalent is beneficial but not required.
• Basic understanding of developing, writing, and administering grant proposals.
• Basic understanding of current technology related to water quality issues and best management practices.

LICENSE and SKILLS

• Must possess PA driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• As a condition of continuing employment, the individual must be able to obtain a cell phone service contract by the end of their probationary period. This position requires using a cell phone for relaying pertinent information and assessing the location and safety of staff while in the field (A stipend will be provided by the County to help offset the monthly expense).
• Effective public speaking, communication and writing skills are of utmost importance for this position.
• Must have knowledge of computer operations and be able to use Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access applications, and have experience using audio visual aids equipment & digital camera.
• Ability to read and interpret technical literature, engineering plans, blueprints, and tables.
• Ability to perceive mechanical, physical, and spatial relationships.
• Knowledge of soils and the use of the soil survey.

Located in south-central Pennsylvania, York County Government offers many exciting and challenging opportunities to learn and grow in a career while making a difference in the lives of York County residents. Each County department meets a unique need in the community and provides an opportunity for both professional growth and personal satisfaction. York County offers a competitive wage and benefit package.