AGRONOMIST 1283

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class performs technical work and studies for the Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District in order to ensure the long-term viability of the area’s prime agricultural soils. The incumbent develops and certifies integrated pest management plans and nutrient management plans for Suffolk County agricultural producers. Work involves coordination between agencies such as Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning, Suffolk County Department of Health Services, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Long Island Farm Bureau, Peconic Estuary Program, and United States Geological Survey. The incumbent will provide training to District staff on the preparation of nutrient management plans for implementation at farms throughout Suffolk County. Work is performed under supervision from the District Manager and is reviewed throughout its progress and upon completion. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Develops, reviews, and certifies integrated pest management plans (IPM) and nutrient management plans (NMP);

Works with departmental staff and outside agencies such as Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to complete IPMs and NMPs;

Performs field work such as collecting and testing soil samples for analysis, on-site evaluation of operations, and other field work required to complete and certify IPMs and NMPs;

Develops and implements a prioritization process in the selection of parcels for planning and implementation efforts;

Assists farmers within Suffolk County to implement practices within the watershed through cost-sharing programs;

Designs and implements processes to effectively manage and generate reports that will document implemented practices as required by contractual stipulations;

Assists in implementing annual field demonstration workshops to highlight best management practices from the NRCS such as environmental effectiveness and economic efficiencies;

Researches new technology and new advancements in agriculture;

Maintains comprehensive records and reports of programs;

Assists in the training of District staff towards certified planner status.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of the principles of mathematics and the natural sciences; good knowledge of the fundamental principles of conservation planning, natural resources management and watershed management; good knowledge of soils, hydrology, irrigation systems and hydraulics; good knowledge of the fundamental principles of drafting and design; ability to prioritize, develop, review and certify conservation plans in accordance with industry standards; ability to establish and maintain good working relations with co-workers, the general public, and public officials; ability to maintain records and to prepare accurate and comprehensive reports; ability to accurately express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Either:

(a) Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Bachelor’s Degree in agronomy, soil science, soil conservation, agricultural engineering, natural resources management, or a related field, and two (2) years of experience in the field of soil and water conservation and/or farm resources management practices; or,

(b) Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with an Associate’s Degree in agronomy, soil science, soil conservation, agricultural engineering, natural resources management, or a related field, and four (4) years of experience in the field of soil and water conservation and/or farm resources management practices; or

(c) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of (a) and (b).

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Within 26 weeks of appointment, candidates must obtain either a New York State Agricultural Environmental Management Planner Certificate (NYSAEM) or a Natural Resources Conservation Service Certified Conservation Planner Certificate.

Candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license at the time of appointment and throughout employment in this title.

R 02/01/2018

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive