Natural Resources Specialist, Community Development

Deschutes County Human Resources • Bend, OR

7d • Onsite

About The Position

This position provides the opportunity to contribute to a growing Natural Resources Department to reduce the risk of wildfire, control noxious weeds and help manage non-federal lands in Deschutes County. The position will manage a robust grant program and assist the Fire Adapted Communities Coordinator with Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) and outreach material. The goal is to provide funding and services to communities that have the highest risk of wildfire and noxious weeds. The position will engage with residents by planning and carrying out successful defensible space and mitigation projects. Main duties will involve site visits to communities and other non-federal land, contract administration, treatment monitoring, grant reporting and CWPP updates. The position will have an integral part in reducing risk of fire and noxious weeds in Deschutes County.

Requirements

• Knowledge of or experience with: Natural Resource Management activities, including fire/fuel reduction, wildfire safety and mitigation, noxious weed control, and ecological restoration.
• General knowledge of the theory, practices, and principles of natural resource management program.
• General knowledge of the laws, procedures, principles, and regulations governing natural resource programs.
• General knowledge of trends, ecological changes, and developments in natural resource management.
• Skill in: Writing and administering contracts and grants.
• Coordinating and leading projects.
• Interpreting and applying state and federal regulations, and County codes and policies.
• Standard and specialized computer software applications, including GIS applications.
• Developing educational material, interpreting and communicating plans, policies, procedures, and objectives.
• Presenting and defending program reports and recommendations in public meetings.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers, citizens, developers, advocates, and regional agencies.
• Facilitating discussions and meetings amongst a wide variety of stakeholders with diverse views and opinions.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Associate’s degree in Natural Resources Management, Environmental Studies, Forestry, or related coursework; AND three (3) years of program management and training experience, including an understanding of natural resources, forestry, and community wildfire issues; OR any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills and knowledge to perform the job.
• Driving is a requirement for this position.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days of hire date.
• Must have dependable transportation and be able and willing to drive throughout Deschutes County in sometimes adverse weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, or closely related field.
• Experience in grant and contract administration.
• Experience writing and implementing Community Wildfire Protections Plans.
• National Wildland Coordinating Group (NWCG) wildland fire qualifications.
• Experience in GIS applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead with all aspects of grant program management and contract administration, including regulatory requirements, budgeting, and reporting.
• Use of land maps or GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to map vegetation and resources for ecosystems, fire, fuel and other related projects, including maintaining data.
• Assist communities and agency partners throughout Deschutes County to prepare, revise and implement Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs).

Benefits

• Excellent County benefit package when eligible.
• Robust healthcare package covers medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage at a minimal cost of $100 for employee only and $121 per month for employee plus dependents, which includes an innovative on-site clinic, pharmacy, and wellness and wellbeing services.
• Life insurance
• Retirement (PERS)
• Generous paid time-off (14-18 hours/month to start, pro-rated for part-time)
• Holidays
• Professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree