Agricultural Inspector jobs in Yakima, WA

Agricultural Technician

Environmental Management

Department of Natural Resources

Hourly Wage: $17.36/Regular/Full-Time

This is a training position; employee will participate in Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Technical Service Provider (TSP) training to create nutrient management plans along with training to develop site evaluations for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). Provides recommendations for nutrient controls and best management practices, assistance with nutrient deep-soil sampling, review farm plans, and nutrient management application data. Is responsible for assisting in collection of surface water flow and ground water measurements and samples to test quality. Maintains records of work performed and use of materials and equipment. Prepares reports and enters data using computer. Will be required to participate with the HazMat Team.

The goal of this training position is to establish a NRCS Certified Technical Service Provider who will eventually be responsible for Nutrient Management Plans and site evaluations of CAFOs on the reservation.

Examples of Work Performed:

Accomplish rigorous NRCS Certified Technical Service Provider Training.

Review farm plans and nutrient management application data to create a nutrient management plan for operators of agricultural land on the reservation.

Assists with nutrient deep-soil sampling.

Assist in collecting surface and ground water samples for monitoring water quality.

Assists with install, maintenance and monitoring of stream gages, meteorological monitoring stations, water quality sensors and probes and static well levels.

Record field data using Global Positioning System (GPS).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of basic agricultural operations and their role on the Reservation.

Knowledge of the Yakama Reservation closed area and waterways.

Knowledge of basic hydrology and hydraulics of open channels, natural streams, flumes, canals.

Knowledge of basic hydrology and water measurement methods, techniques, and instruments.

Ability to apply basic math in performing daily work assignments.

Ability to perform moderately strenuous physical work.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Ability to wade in flowing streams on slippery rocks.

Ability to work in adverse weather conditions, rugged terrain, remote field locations.

Ability to work flexible work schedule during field season.

Ability to maintain legible and accurate notes and forms.

Ability to work flexible schedule during field season.

Ability to use computer and basic software.

Ability to operate power tools used for repairs and maintenance of data collection stations but not required.

Ability to work independently and productively with minimal supervision.

Minimum Requirements:

High school diploma and 3 years of experience in a position comparable to a Water Technician or any agricultural work. OR

An AA degree with two years work experience in a related field, preferably an emphasis in agricultural, hydrological, environmental, physical, or biological sciences, may be considered for two-year work experience.

Required to pass Federal background check to gain access to NRCS system.

Must pass a pre-employment background check.

Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.