Join Our Team!


AVSWCD is seeking applicants for our District Director role.  The District Director supports the goals of the Androscoggin Valley Soil and Water Conservation District, as directed by the Board of Supervisors, through grant research and writing, coordinating outreach efforts, developing partnerships, and serving as a liaison for the agency to the public and private sector.  To apply you may email us a cover letter and resume, or apply on Indeed via the link below.

The District provides farmers, woodland owners, and residents with information and techniques that protect the soil, water, and natural resources of Androscoggin and Sagadahoc counties. Currently the District provides educational workshops, technical trainings, and outreach events that cover topics ranging from forestry management, pollinator and wildlife habitat, soil health, foraging, and invasive plant/forest pest species. The District partners with local, state, and federal organizations to expand the reach of our services. 
 
Position specifics: The District Director position is an hourly position at 20 hours/week (1,000 hours/year) with opportunities to expand the role. Hourly pay to be negotiated with successful applicant. Flexible work schedule. Work in the office, from home, and field settings. Some evening and weekend hours are required, as well as occasional overnight travel for meetings. Position supervised by the District’s Board of Supervisors.
 
The responsibilities of this position include:

Ensure Funding
  • Grant research and writing to provide funding for new projects and programs.
  • Identify and develop small fundraising programs to support District functions and activities.
  • Recruit financials sponsors and corporate donors.
  • Collaborate with other agencies and groups in finding funds where appropriate.

Partnerships
  • Develop and implement volunteer network to further District mission.
  • Maintain a working relationship with District partners, including conservation and natural resource groups, state and local agencies, individual landowners, funding organizations, County and municipal managers, etc.
  • Represent the District at various events and meetings in the region and across the state.
  • Coordinate and manage budgetary and technical activities with USDA – Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). This includes working with District, MACD and NRCS local and state staff for creation and execution of District Contribution and Cooperative Agreements with USDA-NRCS.

Technical Assistance
  • Pursue technical training as needed to augment and keep current in technical, financial and management skills.
  • Provide natural resources outreach and assistance to the public in person, online, and via phone. Provide technical assistance for general conservation issues and/or arrange for additional expertise as needed.
 
Management
  • Coordinate District growth and development.
  • Develop monthly Board Meeting Agendas with staff and Board, facilitate Board Meetings and record minutes. Maintain open communication and keep board apprised of issues of concern, as needed, between meetings.
  • Oversee personnel policy and procedures. Manage paperwork and reporting required for personnel management. Coordinate and manage hiring process for staff.
  • Provide the Board of Supervisors with training opportunities, as available. Provide Board with information and recommendations regarding oversight of personnel, policy, and procedures.
 
Bookkeeping Skills are optional but helpful
  • Manage all aspects of the District’s financial accounts and responsibilities, including assistance with creation and oversight of program-specific budgets. Manage payroll.  Maintain records of all District activities and projects.
  • Prepare and present budget request and report activities to both Androscoggin and Sagadahoc County Commissioners at their yearly budget review meetings.
  • Prepare and submit worklogs, reports, and financial data as required by all funding sources.
  • Maintain records and information storage for District, both digital and hard copy.
 
 
 
 
Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities of a successful candidate.
  1. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Natural Resources Science or related field. Additional academic work and/or experience beneficial. Experience may be substituted for academic credentials. General knowledge of natural resources and conservation issues consistent with District philosophy.
  2. Demonstrated ability and experience working with an organization in a leadership role.
  3. Demonstrated ability to design, develop, fund-raise, and operate new projects and programs. This includes grant writing, management, reporting and oversight of such projects.
  4. Demonstrated leadership and initiative in natural resource management and enhancement.
  5. Experience and knowledge of non-profit management and administration a plus.
  6. Demonstrated ability to network and partner with conservation and natural resource groups, state and local agencies, individual landowners, and other organizations.
  7. Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects effectively.
  8. Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting. Ability and desire to work collaboratively with Board members, other District staff and partners.
  9. Excellent organizational, scheduling, and planning skills.
  10. Proven professional writing and oral communication skills.
  11. Competency with Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to use/learn QuickBooks accounting software.
  12. Ability to become authorized as a “secure staff member” in order to work in the USDA office and have access to USDA information including the USDA computer network system. This requires a federal background check to be conducted on the successful candidate.
  13. Reliable transportation for travel both locally and throughout the State.
  14. Ability to follow USDA procedures and policies to carry out partner responsibilities and commitments.
 
You may email us a cover letter and resume, or apply through an online portal on Indeed here. We will accept applicants on a rolling basis until the role is filled.

Androscoggin Valley Soil & Water Conservation District prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities. AVSWCD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Volunteer with us!


Are you looking for a way to become more involved in your community? We are always looking for volunteers for big and small projects! Fill out our Volunteer Interest Form and we will try to match you with a project that you are the most interested in!

Volunteer projects include (but are not limited to) trail clearing, tabling at a local event, transporting large materials, invasive removal, leading a workshop/nature walk, office work, classroom readings, help with event setup, and much more.
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We also encourage scouts, 4-H, and homeschool groups to reach out to us to collaborate on specific building and conservation projects.

Fill out our Volunteer Interest Form to get connected with our staff!