Become a Natural Resource Specialist: Shaping the Future of Conservation

Are you looking to make a tangible difference in the health and sustainability of our natural environment? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently seeking a motivated and skilled professional to join the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) as a Natural Resource Specialist, also known as a Resource Conservationist. This position, based in the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon, is a vital part of our efforts to conserve soil, water, and wildlife habitats across the nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a Resource Conservationist, you will serve on the staff of the Assistant State Conservationist. Your responsibilities are multifaceted and critical to the successful execution of state programs:

Program Management: Act as the primary manager for Financial Assistance Programs, ensuring effective coordination of funds.
Technical Support: Coordinate assistance to field offices to ensure conservation programs are implemented efficiently.
Policy Interpretation: Translate national guidance into clear, actionable strategies for local conservation implementation.
Fiscal Oversight: Provide critical input on budget discussions and ensure compliance with federal requirements.
Document Development: Create bulletins, manual supplements, and guidance documents to standardize conservation practices.

Qualifications and Requirements

To succeed in this role, candidates must demonstrate a high level of proficiency and relevant experience. Applicants must hold a degree in a relevant discipline (such as biological sciences, agriculture, or natural resource management) or a combination of education and experience.

Comparison of Key Requirements

Feature	Requirement Detail
Education	Degree in Natural Sciences or equivalent experience
Experience	1 year at GS-11 level or equivalent
Assessment	Must complete USA Hire assessment
Work Type	Combination of field and office work

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $96,443 to $125,378 per year. Beyond the compensation, you will have access to the robust benefits package available to federal employees, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Retirement savings plans with employer contributions.
Paid annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for flexible telework arrangements.
Potential for relocation incentives for qualified candidates.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires precision. Keep these tips in mind:

Focus on Quality: Your resume should not exceed two pages. Highlight the specific duties that align with the major responsibilities listed in the announcement.
Documentation is Key: Ensure you have copies of your transcripts and your SF-50 (if applicable) ready to upload.
Test Preparation: The USA Hire assessment is a critical component of the selection process. Use the resources available on the OPM website to familiarize yourself with the format.
Double Check Dates: Ensure all applications are submitted before the 11:59 PM (ET) deadline on the closing date.

If you are a professional passionate about environmental stewardship and ready to step into a leadership role within the USDA, this position is an excellent path forward. Apply today to help us continue the important work of protecting our working landscapes and ensuring a sustainable future.

Why This Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist) Job Matters

Shape the future of America's landscapes by leading critical conservation programs as a Resource Conservationist with the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist) Job Overview

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), under the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is seeking a dedicated Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist) to join our team in Portland, Oregon. This role serves as a key member of the State Office staff, providing vital support for conservation programs and acting as a primary manager for Financial Assistance Programs. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the effective delivery of conservation services, managing fiscal resources, and coordinating with partners to protect and enhance working lands across the state.

Requirements for Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist)

U.S. Citizenship.
Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-11 level.
Completion of the USA Hire online assessment.
Possession of a valid state driver's license.
Ability to perform field work including walking on uneven terrain.
Time-in-grade requirements for current federal employees.

Preferred Qualifications for Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist)

Proven track record in devising and implementing short- and long-term conservation plans.
Experience managing agency financial assistance programs and budget tracking.
Strong ability to interpret and apply national guidance into local program strategies.
Demonstrated expertise in conservation planning principles.
Excellent communication skills for stakeholder collaboration.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Telework eligibility according to agency policy.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Supportive and collaborative team environment.

💡 How to Apply Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details.
Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting relevant experience.
Submit your application package online via the USAJOBS portal.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment within the required timeframe.
Upload all necessary supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Review your transcript and ensure it is from an accredited institution.
Complete the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the notification.
Verify that all documents are legible and in acceptable file formats (PDF, TXT, DOC).
Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Resource Conservationist?

The incumbent acts as a Program Manager for financial assistance programs, coordinating funding statewide and providing technical support to field offices.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, the role involves occasional field work which may require travel and navigating uneven terrain, as well as office-based duties.

Can I use an unofficial transcript for my application?

Yes, an unofficial transcript is acceptable during the initial application phase, but official transcripts will be required upon selection.

Is this a remote position?

This position is based in Portland, Oregon. While it is eligible for telework according to agency policy, it is not a fully remote position.

Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to various hiring paths. Review the vacancy announcement to determine your eligibility based on your status.

What is the work environment like?

The role is a mix of office-based analytical work and field work that may involve exposure to various weather conditions and terrain.

Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a cornerstone of the USDA’s mission to help people help the land. With a presence in nearly every county in the United States, the NRCS works hand-in-hand with farmers, ranchers, and forest managers to implement proven conservation systems. Our work is not just about environmental protection; it is about ensuring that agricultural landscapes remain productive for generations to come. Joining the NRCS means becoming part of a community dedicated to stewardship, scientific integrity, and public service.