Application Deadline Date: 01/23/2023
Req ID: 45996
Department: Agriculture, Food & Markets Agency
Location: Williston, VT, US
Position Type: Permanent
Schedule Type: Full Time
Hourly Rate: $26.42
Overview
The Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets is seeking an Agricultural Water Quality Specialist who will perform agricultural water quality inspections on farms to ensure regulatory compliance. The primary goal of this position is to implement federal, and state water quality regulations to protect the waters of Vermont. Candidates must have environment and agricultural knowledge and be skilled in writing, mapping, and database use.
This position will perform duties in the agricultural field of environmental regulatory compliance. The primary goal of this position within the Water Quality Division is to support the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Market in achieving and maintaining compliance with a wide range of federal, and state water quality regulations including, but not limited to, Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs), Large Farm Operations (LFO) rules, and Medium Farm Operations (MFO) rules, as well as EPA’s Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO).
Tasks include conducting substantial on-farm and field site visits/follow-ups in all weather conditions, educating the public and the farming community on water quality regulations, providing information on technical and financial assistance programs, and being responsible for generating reports and interfacing with enforcement decisions. This position must be knowledgeable about water quality and agriculture, database management, mapping software and Microsoft office programs. Familiarity around environmental policymaking and nutrient management planning is a plus.
Who May Apply
This position, Agriculture Water Quality Specialist III (Job Requisition #45996), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Nathaniel.Sands@vermont.gov.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.
Environmental Factors
Duties are performed in both an office setting and in the field. Duties in the field may include walking along stream banks, fields and among livestock. Field work may require carrying of heavy equipment while traversing rough terrain and bodies of water in all weather conditions. Incumbent must have private means of transportation for completion of field assignments. Travel statewide is required. Some work outside of regular working hours, including attendance at public meetings, may be required. Work will often be performed in a dynamic and engaging committee-style forum where strong differences of opinion may be encountered on a regular basis.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent AND six (6) years or more of experience in agriculture, environmental conservation, or a related field.
OR
Associate’s degree in agriculture, environmental conservation, or a related field AND four (4) years or more of experience in agriculture, environmental conservation or a related field.
OR
Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, environmental conservation, or a related field AND two (2) years or more of experience in agriculture, environmental conservation, or a related field.
OR
Four (4) years as a Water Quality Specialist II or equivalent.
Total Compensation
As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it’s more than a paycheck. The State’s total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:
- 80% State paid medical premium
- Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
- Low cost group life insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.
