Natural Resource Specialist I

Sebring, FL
Full Time
Road & Bridge
Experienced

Department:

Road & Bridge

Reports to:

Natural Resources Manager (0981)

Pay Grade/Salary Range:

111 - $51,329.73 - $82,127.56 ($24.68 - $39.48 hourly)

Posting Expires:

Until Filled

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This is a professional position responsible for support, planning, and implementation of conservation and preservation management practices, outreach, public relations, and maintenance issues relating to parks and natural resources in Highlands County. Serves as support and assists the Lakes Management staff. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The following statements describe the principal functions of the job and its scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements.  Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.

• Provides natural resource protection, conservation, and parks expertise in support of Highlands County Board of County Commissioners and public land management. 
• Evaluates problems and recommends solutions in areas dealing with natural resource and conservation issues. 
• Educates the public on natural resource protection and park-related issues and interacts with media for public relations purposes. 
• Obtains grants to support department objectives and goals. 
• Manages the Sun ‘n Lake Preserve by implementation of site restoration projects such as thinning, roller-chopping, prescribed burning, and erosion control. Handles publicity, public relations, media inquiries, and responds to visitor questions regarding the Sun ‘n Lake Preserve. Assists and coordinates Preserve special events and public outreach. Ensures Preserve rules are enforced.
• Encourages habitat restoration activities to include site mapping, concept planning, interagency coordination, and coordinating restoration activities of staff, volunteers, and/or contractors.
• Works closely with and reports to Florida Communities Trust to ensure management practices are followed. 
• Keeps records including spatial data, maps, data bases, and reports of site’s progress. Performs annual flora and fauna surveys. Monitors grounds for exotic and natural plant and animal species.  Monitors and records wildlife sightings. 
• Recognizes communities and maintains optimum invasive, exotic species control via natural, mechanicals and chemical means.
• Coordinates with outside agencies regarding land management activities. 
• Conducts routine site inspections of environmental sites and formulate recommendations for impact avoidance and minimization. 
• Serves as liaison for the Natural Resources Advisory Commission and provides staff comments on Planning and Zoning and Board of Adjustment issues.   
• Performs administrative operational duties, including, but not limited to, purchasing, inventory and field equipment maintenance and repair. 
• Oversees, monitors, and reports on the Conservation Trust Fund. 
• Assists with the parks and lakes management programs. Writes articles and publishes pertinent information as related to the department.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of County procedures and functions. 
• Good knowledge of natural resources and conservation techniques as related to the County. 
• Ability to perform with a high degree of efficiency computer-based programs such as website design and maintenance, ArcGIS, and GPS.  
• Originates spreadsheets and databases. 
• Proficient in the use of PowerPoint, Adobe, Excel, and Word. 
• Ability to meet deadlines. 
• Write reports and interact with other county and state agencies, staff and the public. 
• Ability to make public presentations and educate citizens. 
• Skill in communicating clearly and concisely in both writing and orally.

PHYSICAL SKILLS:

The individual in this position:  Must be able to remain in a stationary position for 50% of the time.  The individual in this position frequently communicates with the public, volunteers, and co-workers.  Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.  Rarely moves materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs.  Consistently works in indoor and outdoor environments.  Occasionally works in inclement outdoor weather conditions. In close proximity to bodies of water.  Frequently operates motor vehicle for up to (4) hours continuously or intermittently.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Natural Science or related field plus two (2) years of experience in a natural resource field.  

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver License.

OTHER JOB-RELATED REQUIREMENTS:

         Disaster Essential. Ability to swim.

THE HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Does not Discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment

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