Become a State Resource Conservationist with the USDA
Are you ready to influence the future of agricultural sustainability? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is seeking a dedicated State Resource Conservationist to join their team in Auburn, Alabama. This role is perfect for a seasoned conservation expert who is ready to translate science-based strategies into statewide policy.
Job Responsibilities
As a State Resource Conservationist, you will perform high-level functions that guide the direction of conservation in Alabama. Your primary duties include:
- Directing the development of state-wide resource conservation planning.
- Coordinating specialists in biology and plant technology to assist field staff.
- Managing program appraisals to ensure ecological science standards are met.
- Assisting the State Conservationist in crafting and executing the State Business Plan.
- Training field personnel on the implementation of new resource data and methodologies.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet strict educational and professional standards:
Educational Baseline
Candidates must hold a degree in soil conservation or a related discipline, such as agronomy, soil science, or forestry. Coursework must include 30 semester hours in natural resources, with at least 12 hours dedicated to soils, crops, or plant science.
Professional Experience
You must demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level, focusing on conservation planning, providing guidance on erosion control, and managing agency policy and programs.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Ag/Natural Resources + 30 relevant credit hours |
| Experience | 1 Year of GS-12 equivalent specialized experience |
| Resume | Strict 2-page limit |
| Location | Auburn, Alabama |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $112,556 to $146,325 per year. Beyond the salary, the USDA provides a comprehensive benefits package, which includes federal health insurance, retirement planning, and telework flexibility. Relocation or recruitment incentives may be authorized for qualified individuals.
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process requires precision. Start by ensuring your resume is exactly two pages or fewer; any overflow will result in immediate disqualification. When detailing your work experience, focus on your achievements in conservation planning and stakeholder management. Finally, complete any required online assessments promptly—the portal closes 48 hours after the announcement ends.
This is a unique opportunity to lead conservation initiatives in Alabama while working with a world-class agency. If you are passionate about soil health, water quality, and sustainable agriculture, we encourage you to apply today and help us make a difference.
Why This Soil Conservationist (State Resource) Job Matters
Lead the future of land stewardship in Alabama as a State Resource Conservationist with the USDA.
Soil Conservationist (State Resource) Job Overview
Join the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Auburn, Alabama, as a State Resource Conservationist. This high-impact role places you on the State Conservationist’s leadership team, where you will shape policies, manage programs, and drive the implementation of science-based conservation strategies across the state.
Requirements for Soil Conservationist (State Resource)
- Degree in soil conservation or related agricultural/natural resource discipline (e.g., agronomy, soil science, forestry, or agricultural engineering).
- Completed 30 semester hours in a natural resource or agricultural field, including 12 hours in soils/crops/plant science.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
- Proven expertise in conservation planning, resource management, and coordinating outreach with partner organizations.
- Ability to manage state program priorities and administrative funds effectively.
- Submission of transcripts and all necessary supporting documentation by the application deadline.
Preferred Qualifications for Soil Conservationist (State Resource)
- Advanced knowledge of ecological sciences and field trial development.
- Demonstrated experience in training field personnel on resource data application.
- Expertise in interpreting complex agency policy for statewide implementation.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with stakeholders and private land managers.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Telework eligibility
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Impactful work within a nationally recognized conservation mission
💡 How to Apply Soil Conservationist (State Resource) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Soil Conservationist (State Resource) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Click the Apply button to initiate the online questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts and SF-50 if currently employed by the federal government.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessment within the specified window.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Clearly link your work experience to the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are in an approved format (e.g., PDF, TXT, DOC) and under 5MB.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly display your name and relevant coursework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree substitution allowed for the GS-13 level?
No, at the GS-13 grade level, there is no education substitution; candidates must possess the required specialized experience.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework as determined by current agency policy.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Applicants who submit a resume exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Can I submit my resume in Adobe Portfolio format?
No, Adobe Portfolio documents are not viewable by our systems. Please use standard formats like PDF or Word.
What is the agency's stance on criminal history?
Under the Fair Chance Act, we do not request information regarding criminal history until a conditional offer of employment is made.
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The NRCS is a premier conservation organization committed to the mission of "helping people help the land." We work hand-in-hand with farmers, ranchers, and forest managers to preserve the health and productivity of the nation's natural resources. By providing technical and financial assistance, we empower stewards of the land to restore wetlands, enhance water quality, and protect our environment for future generations.