The Verde Natural Resource Conservation District (NRCD) is currently accepting applications for a Program Manager. The Program Manager will work closely with landowners, surface water users, and stakeholders to manage several water conservation projects and outreach across the Verde River watershed.

Program Manager Responsibilities

  • Manage water conservation and educational projects along the Verde River in the Verde Valley.
  • Manage the Verde NRCD’s Soil Moisture Study to recruit participants, install and troubleshoot soil moisture sensors, collect and analyze soil moisture and environmental data, and generate tailored reports twice a month to participants to optimize their irrigation scheduling.
  • Manage water conservation and infrastructure projects, such as irrigation ditch piping, as needed across the Verde Valley.
  • Research and conduct trainings and/or workshops on sustainable agricultural practices, water conservation strategies, and other topics that promote the mission of the Verde NRCD.
  • Conduct outreach to develop and maintain a network of landowners, surface water users, local conservation groups and other stakeholders across the Verde Valley.
  • Provide operational assistance to the Verde NRCD including writing and proofreading grant applications, budgets, reports, creating outreach materials, and other administrative tasks as needed.

Requirements

  • Experience in the field of agriculture, conservation, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to collect environmental data and perform QAQC and analysis.
  • Experience organizing time and managing diverse activities to meet deadlines.
  • Strong research, decision making, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency with computers, especially MS Office.
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with a wide range of people.
  • Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects and work, stand, walk, kneel, and stoop for extended periods and in variable weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in agronomy, agriculture, environmental science, or a related field.
  • Multi-cultural or cross-cultural experiences are appreciated.
  • Experience providing irrigation scheduling recommendations based on soil moisture data.
  • Awareness of soil moisture meters and associated software, water conservation infrastructure improvements, and related industry trends and technology.
  • Knowledge of soil, vegetation, and climate local to the Verde Valley.

How To Apply: Please send resume and three references to nrcdverde@gmail.com