Become a Soil Conservationist with the USDA in Hawaii
Are you looking for a career that merges technical expertise with environmental stewardship? The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is hiring a Soil Conservationist in Kaunakakai, Hawaii. This role is a unique opportunity to lead conservation initiatives and partner with local stakeholders to protect our vital agricultural lands.
Job Responsibilities
As a District Conservationist, you will be the face of conservation in the local unit. Your primary duties will include:
- Conservation Planning: Developing and implementing comprehensive plans for resource management.
- Technical Leadership: Providing guidance to staff on erosion control, invasive species, and water quality improvement.
- Stakeholder Partnership: Working with local districts, farmers, and government agencies to achieve land-use goals.
- Supervision: Managing field office employees and ensuring technical quality across various projects.
- Tool Implementation: Serving as an area expert for conservation software and planning databases.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet several mandatory federal requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Education: Evidence of degree completion in a relevant agricultural or natural resource field.
- Licensing: Possession of a valid state driver's license.
- Clearance: Successful completion of background and security investigations.
Salary and Compensation
This position offers a base salary between $76,463 and $99,404 annually. Notably, employees in this region receive a Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA), which is not subject to federal income tax and helps offset the costs of housing and daily living in Hawaii.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $76,463 - $99,404 |
| Grade | GS-12 |
| Location | Kaunakakai, HI |
| Work Schedule | Full-Time |
Benefits
- Telework eligibility to promote work-life balance.
- Access to federal healthcare and retirement benefits.
- Potential for relocation incentives.
- Opportunities for professional development and certification as a Certified Conservation Planner.
How to Apply
- Review the full announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting your relevant experience.
- Complete the online application and questionnaires.
- Attach all required transcripts and supporting federal documentation (such as SF-50 if applicable).
- Submit before the closing date.
If you are ready to make a lasting difference in conservation, we encourage you to apply for this vital position in Hawaii. Your expertise will directly influence the health and productivity of the land, supporting our agricultural communities for years to come.
Why This Soil Conservationist Job Matters
Transform agricultural landscapes and empower local farmers as a Soil Conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Kaunakakai, Hawaii.
Soil Conservationist Job Overview
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking a dedicated Soil Conservationist for the Hoolehua Field Office in Kaunakakai, Hawaii. This GS-12 role focuses on providing technical leadership and implementing comprehensive resource management programs. The incumbent will serve as a key point of contact for conservation districts, guiding landowners and staff in developing sustainable land-use systems while ensuring compliance with federal environmental standards.
Requirements for Soil Conservationist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must register for Selective Service (if male and born after 12/31/1959).
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must maintain a valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
- Must obtain Conservation Planning Certification per agency guidelines.
- Must complete one year of supervisory/managerial probation.
- Must pass E-Verify employment verification.
Preferred Qualifications for Soil Conservationist
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
- Demonstrated expertise in soil and water conservation principles.
- Proven experience in developing business plans and managing natural resource budgets.
- Strong background in providing technical guidance for erosion control, pest management, and livestock conservation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA)
- ✓Telework Eligibility
- ✓Relocation Incentives (if authorized)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health and Retirement Programs
💡 How to Apply Soil Conservationist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Soil Conservationist Job
- Prepare a resume (strictly limited to two pages).
- Collect required documentation including college transcripts.
- Apply via the official USAJobs link.
- Complete the online questionnaire and required assessments.
- Monitor email for USA Hire assessment instructions.
- Submit all materials by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; excess pages lead to disqualification.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJobs profile to track your application status.
- Practice using the resources available at the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
- Highlight specific instances of leadership and technical assistance in your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary for this GS-12 position is between $76,463 and $99,404 per year, plus a Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA) specific to Hawaii.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.
What are the physical demands of the job?
The incumbent will work in varied conditions, often involving walking through rough terrain, climbing steep banks, and potential exposure to agricultural environments.
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a pillar of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Our mission is to "help people help the land." We work alongside farmers, ranchers, and forest managers to preserve soil, water, and habitat health. Joining the NRCS means becoming part of a 3,000-location network dedicated to making American agriculture more sustainable and productive.