INTERNAL ONLY - CONSERVATION AGENT (BRIDGEWATER AND HALIFAX)

Town of Bridgewater, MA•Bridgewater, MA

13d

About The Position

The Conservation Agent exercises independent judgment and initiative in the performance of highly responsible work of a complex and technical nature relative to the interpretation and enforcement of applicable laws, codes, regulations, and policies, relative to environmental management and land conservation. The Agent assists the Conservation Commission in the discharge of the Commission’s statutory and regulatory duties. Errors could result in injury to or loss of protected resources, could have legal and financial repercussions, and/or cause adverse public relations. This position may support the needs of more than one town.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of all federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, and policies pertaining to matters under the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission, including but not limited to the Wetlands Protection Act.
Thorough knowledge of principles and practices relating to land management, protection, and conservation.
Working knowledge of Open Meeting Law, Public Records Law, State Ethics Law.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with, and establish and maintain cooperative relationships with, Town officials, employees and staff, governmental representatives, contractors, project applicants, attorneys, engineers, and the public.
Good organizational and analytical skills; detail oriented, takes initiative, and able to work independently.
Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
Ability to interpret technical data, read engineering maps and plans, critically analyze information.
Ability to plan and effectively manage budgets.
Proficiency in the use of word processing, database, and spreadsheet computer applications (such as MS Office suite applications).
Honesty, reliability, discretion, and good judgment essential.
Ability to enforce and interpret laws and regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially
Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral form
Ability to work in high pressure situations, as necessary
Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines
Ability to interpret technical data, read engineering maps and plans, critically analyze information
Bachelor’s degree in public health, Environmental Science, Biology, or other related science fields.
At least 4 years’ technical or professional experience in the areas of wetlands protection, land conservation, environmental management, or related field, preferably in a municipal or state environment or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License, and satisfactory driving record, required.

Responsibilities

Provides support, coordination, and professional management for, and technical assistance to, the Conservation Commission in carrying out its statutory obligations, including preparation and administration of department budget.
Assists the Commission in the administration and enforcement of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the Town’s Wetlands Protection Bylaw; primarily responsible for initiating and/or overseeing enforcement actions under the WPA and/or local bylaw.
Assists the Commission in planning, acquisition, administration, and management of municipal conservation land.
Reviews and analyzes Notices of Intent/other filings and associated documents for accuracy, completeness and compliance with the law and regulations; ensures filing fees are calculated correctly.
Assists the Conservation Commission in planning, posting, and holding meetings and public hearings; attends Commission meetings and public hearings.
Assures legal requirements are met including postings, adherence to timelines, approval of minutes, and retention of records. Prepares required reports, including inspection reports, correspondence, presentations, other written material for Commission review; maintains Department files and information.
Prepares draft decisions for Commission review and adoption.
Attend professional meetings of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions and other training sessions and meetings as required.
Participates on Commission’s behalf in DEP proceedings and court appeals, as directed by the Commission.
Works with the Commission to draft or amend wetlands ordinances and associated regulations and Commission policies.
Serves as a community resource for information concerning conservation issues. Research issues, provide data analyses, interact with and aids other town boards and departments, as well as state, and federal agencies on issues related to wetlands, conservation and environmental matters as required.
Performs similar or related work as required or assigned.