Job Description
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is seeking a Water Optimization Technician to help preserve, improve, and sustain Utah agriculture for future generations. This is a career service exempt, at-will position focused on the implementation and monitoring of water conservation initiatives. The successful candidate will work closely with the agricultural community to optimize water usage through technical assistance and project management.
Key Responsibilities
- Technical Assistance: Providing support to Irrigators, Irrigation Companies, Water Conservancy Districts, and Local Conservation Districts to plan and implement water optimization projects.
- Outreach & Education: Performing educational activities regarding state and federal water conservation programs.
- Relationship Building: Developing strong partnerships with landowners, partners, and other agencies to promote conservation efforts.
- Project Oversight: Inspecting water optimization projects before, during, and after implementation to ensure compliance.
- Monitoring & Data: Monitoring optimization projects and gathering data to create required reports
- Financial Processing: Processing projects for payment, which includes compiling and reviewing payment documents, certifying installed practices, and preparing payment packets for processing.
- Administrative Support: Providing staff support to the Utah Conservation Commission and assisting with grant, contract, and agreement reviews.
Qualifications
Minimum:
- Technical Knowledge: Working knowledge of irrigation methods and practices, water quality rules, and water rights regulations.
- Communication: Good verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build trust with producers and landowners.
- Software Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and GIS programs.
- Licensing: A valid driver’s license is required to operate motor vehicles for site visits and data collection
Preferred:
- Background: Prior experience or background in agriculture.
- Process Knowledge: Full understanding and experience of the conservation planning process.
- Education: Preference may be given to those working toward or possessing a bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, Agricultural Engineering, or a related natural resource field.
- Local Expertise: Preference may be given to local candidates with specific planning experience.
Supplemental Information
- Physical Effort: Work may require physical exertion, including long periods of standing or walking over rough, rocky terrain.
- Activities: Frequent bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, and reaching.
- Travel: This position may involve overnight travel and regular site visits to collect data.
- Safety: Some risks include working around operating machinery or hazardous chemicals, requiring special safety precautions.
About the Role
Location – One position in Taylorsville, One position in Tremonton
Background Check Required – No
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – TL – up to two years
Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
- Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
- Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
- Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
- Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
The Agency
For more information about working for the Department of Agriculture and Food please here.
EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
