Soil Scientist jobs in Abilene, TX

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Performs highly complex level agronomic work in the statewide soil and water conservation and nonpoint source pollution abatement programs. Serves as agronomist for the regional office and performs assignments and provides support in planning, design, management, and implementation of programs and practices related to agency responsibilities in soil and water conservation, agricultural and silvicultural nonpoint source pollution management, animal waste management, and other areas. Works under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Participates in health and safety training.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

Coordinates planning, development, and implementation of Water Quality Management Plans (WQMPs) to include performing technical work necessary and collection of appropriate technical data required for the development, certification, and implementation of WQMPs.

Performs field technical work necessary for development and certification of Water Quality Management Plans.

Oversees the collection of appropriate technical data required for Water Quality Management Plan development and certification.

Provides Water Quality Management Plan information and guidance to agricultural producers and other agencies.

Investigate agricultural and silvicultural complaints as necessary.

Provides technical support and training to other staff as necessary.

Provides technical designs and layout of projects for implementation of Water Quality Management Plans.

Performs field technical work necessary for performance of annual status reviews of Water Quality Management Plans.

Performs field technical work necessary for performance of certification of implementation of practices.

Performs other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Experience in fields of agronomy, agriculture, natural resources management, and/or environmental planning with extensive knowledge of animal waste management, grazing management and nutrient management. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in agronomy, natural resources, environmental science, environmental planning, agriculture, or a related field is generally preferred. Experience and education may be substituted for one another. Knowledge of ArcGIS or Q-GIS Geographic Information System (GIS) is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Incumbent must have extensive knowledge of crop and soil nutrients, animal waste management, fertilization. Must have a working knowledge of computers and appropriate software programs. Excellent communication skills are required. Ability to work in an office environment as well as outdoors. Ability to work with agricultural producers, government agencies representatives, and the general public. Working knowledge of Natural Resources Conservation Service policies, as well as state and federal water quality laws. Must be able to safely accomplish moderate lifting (up to 30 lbs.) and sustained moderate physical activity. Must be able to safely and legally operate a motor vehicle.

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, OR LICENSURE

Incumbent must be able to successfully complete the requirements for the Texas Certified Nutrient Management Specialist as provided by Texas AgriLife Extension Service and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

APPLICATION PROCESS

A completed, signed State of Texas application for Employment is required for this position. Resumes may be submitted but will not be accepted in lieu of the application.

A State of Texas application may be completed on the Workintexas website at http://www.workintexas.com An application may also be email to tmatthys@tsswcb.texas.gov or mailed to:

Human Resource Department
Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board
1497 Country View Lane
Temple, TX 76504-8806

For additional information, visit our website at

VETERAN’S PREFERENCE

Veterans or members of the Reserve or National Guard with an MOS or additional duties that fall in the fields of 8831, 9S100 or other related fields pertaining to the minimum experience requirements may meet the minimum qualifications. Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at: https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf

SELECTION INFORMATION

Criminal background checks maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will be conducted before an offer of employment is extended. Evidence of a criminal conviction or other relevant information obtained from the DPS shall not automatically disqualify an individual from employment with the TSSWCB. At the time of hire, selected applicants must show proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. All males who are age 18 through 25 and are required to register with the Selective Service may be asked to present proof of registration or exemption from registration upon hire. TSSWCB participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against job applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you require reasonable accommodation in the interview and selection process, please call the agency's ADA Coordinator at (254)773-2250x227.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $48,158.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Relocate:

• San Angelo, TX 76904: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person