Become a Soil Conservationist with the USDA in Hampton, SC
Are you looking for a career that allows you to make a tangible impact on the environment while supporting local agriculture? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is currently seeking a dedicated Soil Conservationist to join the Manning Area Office in Hampton, South Carolina.
Job Responsibilities
As a Soil Conservationist, you will serve as a vital link between the USDA and the agricultural community. Your primary duties will include:
- Conservation Planning: Develop and implement comprehensive conservation plans for various land projects.
- Technical Consultation: Provide expert advice to landowners and farm managers on soil interpretations, erosion control, and water quality.
- Resource Management: Formulate resource assessments using the Field Office Technical Guide (FOTG).
- Leadership: Mentor junior staff, conduct training, and provide leadership on natural resource issues.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Skill Category | Importance | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | High | Soil Science & Agronomy |
| Communication | High | Stakeholder Management |
| Analytical | Medium | Resource Assessment |
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet the GS-12 qualification standards, including a degree in a relevant agricultural or natural resource discipline and a minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-11 position. Applicants must demonstrate strong knowledge of soil and water conservation principles.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 per year. Beyond the salary, employees benefit from federal leave programs, retirement planning, and the potential for telework as determined by agency policy.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as this is a strict requirement for this announcement. Always double-check your supporting documentation, such as transcripts and SF-50 forms, to ensure they are legible and correctly formatted.
Joining the NRCS in Hampton, SC, is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the long-term health of our nation’s resources. If you have the passion and the technical background to support our mission, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Soil Conservationist Job Matters
Transform our landscape and protect our future: Join the NRCS as a Soil Conservationist in Hampton, SC.
Soil Conservationist Job Overview
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking a dedicated Soil Conservationist to join our team in Hampton, South Carolina. In this role, you will play a critical part in helping landowners and agricultural producers implement sustainable conservation practices. You will serve as an expert resource for the community, providing technical guidance on land use, resource management, and the development of comprehensive conservation plans that foster environmental health and agricultural productivity.
Requirements for Soil Conservationist
- Must meet U.S. Citizenship requirements.
- Must possess a degree in soil conservation, agronomy, soil science, forestry, or a related natural resource discipline.
- Must have completed at least 30 semester hours in natural resource or agricultural fields, including at least 12 semester hours in a combination of soils and crops or plant science.
- Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
- Must be able to pass a background check for a non-sensitive/low-risk position.
- If applying as a current federal employee, must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks at the next lower grade level.
Preferred Qualifications for Soil Conservationist
- Proven track record in analyzing workloads and developing effective annual work plans.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex natural resource concepts to diverse audiences including farmers and land managers.
- Strong technical expertise in erosion control, pest management, livestock management, and water quality improvement.
- Proficiency in developing and implementing comprehensive conservation or resource management plans.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Career growth opportunities within the USDA.
- ✓Supportive work environment dedicated to public service.
💡 How to Apply Soil Conservationist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Soil Conservationist Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather your college transcripts and, if applicable, military or federal service records (SF-50).
- Click the Apply button to initiate the online application through the USDA portal.
- Complete the required questionnaires and, if requested, the USA Hire assessment.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly addresses the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the job description.
- Double-check your resume page count, as anything over two pages will result in automatic disqualification.
- Submit unofficial transcripts early, but be prepared to provide official copies if selected.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are in a compatible format (PDF, Word, TXT, etc.) and under 5MB.
- Set aside 1–2 hours for the USA Hire assessment if invited to complete it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Soil Conservationist with the NRCS?
You will assist landowners and agricultural producers by providing technical expertise, developing resource management plans, and implementing conservation strategies for soil, water, and wildlife.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position involves fieldwork that requires navigating rough terrain and working under various environmental conditions.
Can I submit my resume if it exceeds two pages?
No. The application guidelines strictly state that resumes exceeding two pages will result in the applicant being removed from consideration.
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The NRCS is a premier agency dedicated to the mission of “helping people help the land.” With thousands of locations across every county in the United States, we work hand-in-hand with farmers, forest managers, and community stakeholders. Our goal is to provide technical and financial assistance to ensure our nation's working landscapes remain productive, healthy, and resilient for generations to come.