American Samoa Conservation Technician
We’re hiring!
Pago Pago, American Samoa On-site
Deadline: Nov. 15, 2023
Image Credit: American Samoa Government
Title: Conservation Technician
Location: Pago Pago, American Samoa
Classification: Full-time, three-year position with potential for extension
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking a qualified individual to serve as a Conservation Technician in the American Samoa field office, located in Pago Pago, American Samoa. Funding for this position is secured for (3) years with the potential of extension after (3) years under NRCS Pacific Islands Area Strategic Partnership Funding. The individual will work as a contractor for Ridge to Reefs, a 501c3 nonprofit organization partnering with NRCS, while reporting directly to the American Samoa NRCS District Conservationist.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION(S)
Ridge to Reefs is a 501c(3) non profit organization working in priority watersheds in the mainland U.S. and island territories to mitigate land-based sources of pollution to coral reef and coastal ecosystems. Our small team of scientists, engineers, ecologists and agronomists develops strong on-the-ground partnerships with local farmers, community leaders, politicians, organizations, businesses and entrepreneurs to create synergistic outcomes of conservation and sustainability. RTR specializes in implementing nature-based solutions to support clean water, healthy agricultural systems, and strong local economies. RTR currently works in Maryland, Virginia, Hawai’i, American Samoa, Palau, and Puerto Rico. In American Samoa, RTR is partnering with USDA NRCS on several projects to enhance conservation efforts, including the development and implementation of a Long-Range Plan and the hiring of a Conservation Technician.
The United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS USDA) helps America’s farmers, ranchers and forest landowners conserve the nation’s soil, water, air and other natural resources. All programs are voluntary and offer science-based solutions that benefit the landowner and the environment. NRCS provides technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers with interests in land and water conservation, habitat creation, water quality, and sustainable production improvements.
POSITION SUMMARY
The employee will be engaged in all aspects of providing conservation assistance to farmers, including but not limited to:
signing up farmers for EQIP and other Farm Bill programs
completing soil health management plans
implementing conservation practices (e.g. vegetative buffers, deep litter piggeries, composting)
consulting farmers on best conservation practices based on farmer needs and land conditions
performing environmental evaluations and soil tests
mapping potential sites for conservation
conducting cultural resource reviews
advancing objectives outlined in the American Samoa NRCS Long-Range Plan
collaborating with NRCS and partners to develop and implement sustainable strategies for local conservation efforts
engaging in education and outreach events to farmers and/or communities
developing requirements for the implementation of new or evolving conservation practices
using spreadsheets or other software to keep track of farmer data
communicating in-person and online with staff and partners
This position will include both office and field work; the exact percentage of time spent in each setting may fluctuate seasonally and is adaptable based on the employee’s skills and interests, however the employee should be competent in both field work and office work. The employee must have a valid driver’s license to drive NRCS’ vehicle to and from farm sites, and will occasionally travel by plane between Tutuila and Manu’a. The employee must have proficiency in the Samoan language and culture to ensure successful communication with farmers. Existing experience with farming, natural resource conservation, native plants and/or ecosystems is a plus.
REQUIREMENTS
Samoan language proficiency
Valid driver’s license
In process or completed Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources or related field, or demonstrated aptitude/background knowledge
Ability to work full days outside in a tropical climate
Ability to communicate effectively with farmers, staff and partners both in person and online
Ability to perform necessary office and paperwork
Passion for natural resource conservation and sustainable agriculture
Creative thinking and problem-solving skills
Willingness to learn new skills and ask questions
Self-motivated and flexible with changes in schedules and priorities
Great time and task management skills
Ability to pass a background check
COMPENSATION
The Conservation Technician will be compensated as a GS-5 federal employee. The technician will have a starting salary of $30,306 per year with additional fringe benefits for insurance, health care, vacation, sick leave, etc.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please submit an email with the subject “American Samoa Conservation Technician” to kelly@ridgetoreefs.org including a one-page resume with contact information as well as a brief explanation of your interest in the position, your current location of residence, and how your qualifications make you the ideal candidate for this position.