Method of application: Submit Resume and Cover Letter to the Polk SWCD by 4:30 p.m. on May 1, 2026, via mail or email to polkswcdiowa@gmail.com

Job Description: The employee will initiate, manage, and coordinate agricultural conservation measures that meet the goals of the ongoing Iowa Water Quality Initiative project. The position is located at Polk Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) / USDA Service Center in Ankeny. It is a partnership between Polk SWCD, Polk County Public Works- Water Resources, Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship’s Division of Soil Conservation and Water Quality, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The Agricultural Conservationist will collaborate with local partners to provide technical expertise to implement innovative and traditional soil and water conservation practices. These practices may include buffers, wetlands, grassed waterways, cover crops, and edge of field practices. The employee will focus on outreach, project management, design, survey, and construction oversight for installation of water quality practices. Duties will be performed during normal weekday business hours. Some evening and weekend work is required. This is a grant funded position with funding through December 31st, 2028 with potential renewal; and the employee will serve “at will”. The WQI funding for this position has been an ongoing effort since it commenced in 2016.

The successful candidate should:
Have a working technical knowledge and experience with various water quality, habitat, and conservation practices. Be able to administer, maintain quality control, and develop effective lines of communication while involving many partners at the state, federal, and local levels. Work one on one with landowners, and other decision makers to facilitate the implementation of conservation. Provide technical assistance and construction oversight to implement projects. Cooperate with project partners and commissioners to complete and manage reporting and budget requirements. Submit periodic reports documenting project accomplishments and present annual reports to the partner organizations. Conduct outreach and education programs such as field demonstrations, workshops, brochures, and correspondence. Evaluate past accomplishments and prioritize future project activities involving partners and commissioners.

Required Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in natural resources management, agronomy, biological sciences, ecology, environmental science, hydrology, soil conservation, or water resources or a combination of equivalent education and work experience.

Job Qualifications: Applicant should be a detail-orientated individual with the ability to work independently and prioritize work schedule. Applicant needs to have good verbal and written communication skills. Job will occasionally require walking through rough terrain and/or inclement weather conditions. Needs to possess a valid driver’s license. Successful candidate will need to undergo a federal background investigation and fingerprint check.

Polk Soil & Water Conservation District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider