Become a District Conservationist with the USDA NRCS in Riverton, Wyoming
Are you passionate about the land, agriculture, and sustainable resource management? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) invites you to join our dedicated team in Riverton, Wyoming. As a District Conservationist, you will be on the front lines of environmental stewardship, helping farmers and landowners implement solutions that protect our most precious natural assets.
Job Responsibilities
As a District Conservationist, your days will be dynamic and impactful. Key responsibilities include:
- Resource Management: Overseeing agricultural resource management and the implementation of soil and water conservation plans.
- Strategic Planning: Developing comprehensive conservation plans for projects within the District.
- Technical Leadership: Conducting resource assessments using the Field Office Technical Guide (FOTG) and offering alternatives to landowners.
- Team Supervision: Managing field office staff, establishing goals, and providing mentorship to ensure high-quality service delivery.
- Partnership Building: Engaging with tribal entities, local governments, and federal agencies to solve complex resource concerns.
Requirements
You must meet several requirements to be considered for this position:
- Education: A degree in soil conservation, agronomy, soil science, forestry, or a closely related field, including at least 30 semester hours in agricultural or natural resource sciences.
- Specialized Experience: One year of professional experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, demonstrating competence in conservation planning, technical guidance, and landowner communication.
- Documentation: Submission of official or unofficial transcripts and adherence to the strict two-page resume limit.
Salary Overview
The position offers a highly competitive salary range reflecting the level of responsibility and expertise required.
| Pay Grade | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-11/12 | $74,678 - $116,362 |
Benefits
We value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance options.
- Retirement planning (FERS).
- Generous paid time off.
- Professional training and leadership development.
- Telework flexibility where applicable.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume highlights your work history clearly, focusing on your specific accomplishments in conservation and team management. Do not exceed two pages, or your application will be automatically removed from consideration. Finally, be prepared to complete the online USA Hire assessments promptly once you receive the notification link.
Working for the NRCS in Riverton is an opportunity to leave a tangible legacy. By applying your expertise to real-world conservation challenges, you help secure a productive, healthy future for Wyoming's agricultural lands. Visit the USAJOBS portal to review the full details and submit your application today.
Why This Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the land: Lead vital conservation efforts in the heart of Wyoming as a District Conservationist.
Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job Overview
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking a dedicated Soil Conservationist for our Riverton, Wyoming field office. In this leadership role, you will champion sustainable land management by providing expert technical guidance to local farmers, ranchers, and land managers. You will manage complex resource conservation plans, foster partnerships with local stakeholders, and supervise a field team to ensure our mission of 'helping people help the land' is executed effectively across the region.
Requirements for Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a degree in soil conservation, agronomy, soil science, forestry, or related agricultural fields (with specific credit hour requirements in soils and crops).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-9 (for GS-11 applicants) or GS-11 (for GS-12 applicants) equivalent level.
- Ability to work in rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions.
- Submission of transcripts and, if applicable, proof of foreign education equivalency.
- Ability to successfully complete all required online USA Hire assessments.
Preferred Qualifications for Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist)
- Proven experience in developing complex conservation and resource management plans.
- Strong ability to analyze workloads and develop strategic business plans under budgetary constraints.
- Demonstrated leadership in supervising federal employees and fostering cross-agency partnerships.
- Expertise in soil interpretation, erosion control, and invasive species management.
- Advanced graduate-level education in natural resource disciplines.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with potential for performance-based increases.
- ✓Health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Potential recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
- ✓Eligible for telework based on agency policy.
💡 How to Apply Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your qualifications and does not exceed two pages.
- Click 'Apply Online' on the official vacancy announcement page.
- Complete all required questionnaires and attach supporting documentation.
- Check your email for instructions to complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments within the designated window.
- Submit your final application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; applications exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, including hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Download and save your USA Hire assessment link for future reference.
- Submit unofficial transcripts early to ensure your eligibility is verified before the deadline.
- Double-check your file sizes; all uploaded documents must be under 5MB.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a District Conservationist?
You will serve as a lead advisor for land management, creating and implementing conservation plans that improve soil health, water quality, and agricultural productivity in collaboration with private landowners.
Are there any physical requirements for this position?
Yes, the role requires frequent walking over rough terrain, navigating steep areas, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Can I apply if I don't have a degree in soil science?
You may qualify through a combination of relevant education and experience, provided you meet the specific 30-semester-hour requirement in natural resources or agriculture, including mandatory credits in soils and crops.
What is the work environment like?
*A: The role involves a mix of office-based planning and significant fieldwork, requiring the ability to traverse rough terrain and operate in various weather conditions.*
Is there promotion potential?
*A: Yes, this position is at the GS-11/12 level, with potential for non-competitive promotion upon successful completion of career development milestones.*
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The NRCS is a cornerstone of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), operating under the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area. Our motto, "Helping People Help the Land," reflects our commitment to partnering with landowners to create productive and healthy landscapes. With a presence in nearly every county in the U.S., we provide the technical and financial support necessary to restore wetlands, improve soil health, and manage water quality effectively.