Ag and Natural Resources Precision Technology Specialist

Harney Soil and Water Conservation District

Hines, Oregon

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: $65,000

Start / End Dates: 09-21-26

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Precision Technology Specialist to lead local and regional efforts in advancing the use of precision technologies that support sustainable natural resource management and agricultural production. This role focuses on applying emerging tools and data to help land managers and producers make informed decisions, improve operational efficiency, and address natural resource challenges. Familiarity with data management and data security practices is essential.

Supervision Received
The Coordinator reports to and is supervised by the Harney SWCD District Manager and work closey with the USFWS Maheur Wildlife Refuge and other partners. The Specialist is expected to accomplish tasks independently in multiple areas of work with technical guidance from state and local partners.

Essential Functions and Core Duties

The Precision Technology Specialist will:

  • Develop a recognized program in precision agriculture technology and apply available tools to support producer and land manager needs.
  • Collaborate with agency professionals, landowners, NGOs, researchers, and other partners to expand practical applications of precision technology.
  • Translate research and pilot scale innovations into operational, on the ground practices.
  • Deliver timely technical assistance, outreach, and engagement programs focused on precision technologies, data management, and data security.
  • Create high quality communication, educational, and outreach materials.
  • Lead, plan, and execute demonstration and pilot projects designed to support broader adoption of precision technologies.
  • Organize and participate in workshops, field days, and other outreach events.
  • Cultivate strong partnerships with private and public land managers, livestock producers, NGOs, researchers, and technical/financial assistance providers.

Qualifications / Experience Level Required:

KNOWLEDGE:
Must have knowledge of multiple grant funding programs. Understanding and appreciation of landowner/working land, rural ranch community, and sagebrush conservation issues, ideally with some knowledge of the local areas or similar areas based on experience in other regions. Must demonstrate excellent communication both orally and written through technical writing, proper grammar, spelling, and composition. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office suite and ArcGIS Pro.

ABILITIES:
Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision and with diverse clientele. Ability to read and interpret state and federal policies and procedures such as Federal NEPA process and the Oregon Greater Sage-grouse ARMPA that will allow the incumbent to help communicate those concepts clearly to other interest groups such as landowners and conservation organizations. Must have the ability to operate an off-highway vehicle. Ability to coordinate and communicate clearly and effectively with diverse interest groups (e.g., landowners; government officials, non-governmental organization partners, and internal staff). Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele. Position requires working outside in variable weather conditions, including hot and dry conditions at high elevation, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. Field visits may involve hiking several miles through mud, creeks, desert, and mountain terrain.

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE:
  • M.S. degree in animal science, rangeland science, natural resources management, agricultural sciences, or a closely related field; or B.S. degree in these fields plus at least three years of relevant experience.
  • Experience using precision technologies in agricultural or natural resource settings.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Experience collecting, managing, analyzing, and communicating data.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain within 30 days) and willingness to travel.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in agricultural production systems.
  • Knowledge of data management and data security practices.
  • Experience interpreting and communicating precision technology applications for producers and land managers.
  • Understanding of social and economic factors influencing adoption of agricultural and natural resource innovations.
  • Knowledge of public lands management, livestock operations, and their associated challenges and opportunities.
  • Understanding of ruminant nutrition and behavior.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This position works primarily in the office with regular fieldwork. The fieldwork will include walking and driving in rangelands and streams; on properties with dense vegetation or woodlands; and other areas with steep, slippery, muddy, rocky, or other hazardous terrain. Some physical exertion may be required during field work such as walking, planting vegetation, and using technical or power equipment and hand tools.

Office work will include working at a desk and using a computer. Remote office work is sometimes allowed but time in the office is preferred as it is important to maximize partnership development and provide customer service for visitors.

This position requires travel to field sites, workshops, training sessions, plus occasional evening meetings. Occasional overnight travel will be involved. Although the District has some vehicles, occasional use of the employee’s vehicle may be necessary (available reimbursement is based on mileage).

Compensation:
  • Starting pay is $65,000 with potential yearly step increases based on performance
  • Health benefits are included after 2 months including MASA (airlife)
  • Option to enroll in a Oregon Growth Saving Plan with 6% employer match after 2 months
  • 13 paid holidays, sick leave and vacation

Questions:
If you would like more information about the opportunity please contact Jason Kesling 541-573-6446 ext 4, kesling@harneyswcd.net

To Apply:
Please email a HSWCD application (found on website), cover letter, resume, and contact information for up to three references to kesling@harneyswcd.net with “Ag and Natural Resources Precision Technology Specialist” in the subject line.

Announcement will remain open until filled.

Housing: No

Contact:

Jason Kesling

5415736446

Apply for This Position: kesling@harneyswcd.net

Application Closes: Open Until Filled

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