TITLE: District Manager (DM)
Position: CLOSED as of 4/27/26
STATUS: This is a full-time, 40 hours per week permanent, exempt position. The duty station for this position is the Valencia Soil and Water Conservation District (VSWCD) office.
SALARY: Dependent upon experience, the annual salary for this position is based on the New Mexico State Classified General Service Schedule, Pay Band 70: the entry point is $26.33 per hour ($54,760/year); midpoint is $34.23 per hour ($71,188/year); maximum is $42.12 per hour ($87,616/year).
Additional compensation includes sick and vacation leave, recognized federal holidays, and optional medical, dental, life, and disability insurance, based on the percentage of full-time employment (FTE) for hours > 20 per week. Salary increases are dependent upon availability of funding.
REPORTS TO: VSWCD Board Chair (or, in the absence of the Chair, the Vice Chair), on behalf of the Board of Supervisors.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Directly supervises the Conservation Program Manager and Environmental Education Program Manager, District Assistant, and Financial/Business Assistant. Ensures that staff members who have supervisory duties (for field crews, seasonal hires, interns, volunteers, students, and others) are following District policies, procedures, and applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: The position is responsible for providing leadership and managerial direction to staff for developing and carrying out plans, programs, projects, and overall day-to-day operation and administration of District policies, procedures, and interests, as set by the VSWCD Board. Coordinates and collaborates with partnering agencies, landowners, agricultural producers, community organizations, volunteers, Isleta and Laguna Pueblos, and others, following the strategic plans established by the Board.
MAJOR DUTIES:
- Communicates effectively, both orally and in
- In all internal and external contacts, maintains a professional and business-like
- Reports on the resource concerns and other related interests of the public, landowners, and Isleta and Laguna Pueblos to the VSWCD Board of Supervisors.
- Follows procedures and policies outlined in the Employee Handbook, District Supervisors Handbook, Long-Range Conservation Plan, and other related manuals.
- Maintains frequent communication with the Board Chair (or Vice Chair, if the Chair is absent), provides weekly updates, and completes assignments in a timely manner.
- Conducts duties in a safe and orderly manner, wearing proper attire for work conditions so as to not endanger self, fellow workers, or property with which the employee is entrusted.
- Complies with the VSWCD drug and background screening policy to ensure the safety and general welfare of the general public while Complies with random drug screening.
MAJOR WORK DUTIES:
- Assists the Board leadership in drafting an annual work plan and maintains a calendar of due dates and activities.
- Advocates and promotes effective and responsible use and conservation of natural resources with landowners, members of the Pueblo of Isleta and Pueblo of Laguna, the general public, other resource-related organizations, associations, and public officials.
- Able to communicate the mission and interests of Valencia
- May represent the District on external committees of resource-related organizations, if assigned by the Board.
- Participates in the development of working agreements, conservation plans, and other arrangements with various partners, organizations, landowners, members of the Pueblo of Isleta and Pueblo of Laguna, and others, as authorized by the VSWCD Board.
- Ensures fiduciary, procurement, and legal requirements are met in the development of the annual budget, audits, and quarterly reports for review and approval by the VSWCD Board, Soil and Water Conservation Commission, New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration, State Auditor’s Office, and State Procurement Division.
- Administers the approved annual budget complying with VSWCD Board direction and the fiscal and procurement policies of the District and of the State of New Mexico. Recommends adjustments within approved budget categories for review and approval by the Board.
- Follows the District’s accounting policies and ensures all expenditures and deposits are accounted appropriately in fiscal documents (in QuickBooks) and processed in a timely and accurate
- Complies with the spending authority delegated by the
- Identifies grants for the Funding Opportunities Committee. May assist in writing grant applications approved by the Board and submits work in a timely fashion for review by the Funding Opportunities Committee.
- Directs, supervises, and instructs staff to achieve the most efficient and effective use of their time, skills, and abilities in carrying out their respective work duties.
- Ensures staff are trained in the technical and professional aspects of their duties and effectively communicates with them about VSWCD Board direction and expectations. Recommends staff development training, as needed.
- Establishes individual employee job performance standards, assesses employee performance, develops employee improvement plans, and recommends hiring, disciplinary action, and termination, as a member of the VSWCD Personnel Such recommendations of the Personnel Committee are either approved, modified, or rejected by the Board.
- Assists with the preparation of legal documents, agreements, and other materials requested by the VSWCD Board.
- Develops and presents reports on District programs, projects, and Following Board approval, takes or delegates the lead for all planned events and activities of the District. May delegate specific tasks or events to District employees or request assistance from the Board leadership.
- Balances internal and external demands, including but not limited to participating in conferences, workshops, training sessions, public and partner meetings, etc., maintaining focus on VSWCD Board approved program of work priorities.
- Completes other duties, as
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Representing the VSWCD Board in the performance of work duties is a highly visible position. Ability to effectively direct and manage organizations in the accomplishment of multiple and diverse work priorities within established budgets, policies, and procedures is essential. Excellent oral and written communication skills are required in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with the VSWCD Board, staff, partners, contractors, public officials, landowners, members of the Pueblos of Isleta and Laguna, community organizations, and others. Computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and QuickBooks, and research skills are highly desired. A “can-do” attitude is a must. Experience in agricultural operations or familiarity and working knowledge of natural resource management and land and water conservation practices is preferred. Must be able to assist with preparing budgets and writing grant applications for funding from appropriate federal, state, local, and private sources. Must be able to develop a sufficient working knowledge of theories, principles, practices, and techniques of natural resource conservation along with applicable legal statues, relegations, and policies.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: The minimum qualifications are a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, Wildlife Conservation, Public or Business Administration, or a related field, with five years of progressive responsibility in personnel or program management, agency administration, land conservation or natural resource management, technical and professional services, or similar work. Previous experience in a public agency, developing, presenting, or managing operational budgets is desirable. Having a Master’s degree generally places an individual in the mid-range of the salary band (or higher).
GUIDELINES: Follows VSWCD policies, procedures, and directives (as outlined in the Employee Handbook and District Supervisors Handbook). Follows federal, state and local laws.
COMPLEXITY: Significant complexity in this position entails professionalism, teamwork, self- motivation, and the exercise of proper judgement in the execution of duties and tasks.
SCOPE AND EFFECT: This position provides management essential to effectuating the District’s vision, goals, and yearly work plans, and long-range conservation plan (the District’s strategic plans.
PERSONAL CONTACTS: This position requires the professional capacity to interact and coordinate effectively and cordially with a variety of contacts, including Board members, all staff, the general public, visitors to the Whitfield Conservation Area, and District partner agency representatives.
PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: To fulfill requirements of the District’s management.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.in the process of setting up tables, chairs for meetings, transporting a display board for offsite presentations, and moving supplies or files in and out of storage. Must be willing and able to inspect work in the field (at Whitfield and elsewhere), including walking and hiking over rough terrain in hot or inclement weather for extended periods of time.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Primary workstation is a desk with computer in an open-office environment (until the construction of the new administration building is completed) at a 97-acre conservation area adjacent to the Middle Rio Grande. This position is not eligible for remote work. This position is for the workday hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, although some Saturdays may be required. The District Manager must attend monthly Board meetings that begin at 4:00 p.m. and generally conclude before 7:00 p.m. Occasionally, the District Manager will attend other meetings during the month, such as Special Board Meetings.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: The person in this position must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico State driver’s license. Reliable transportation to work is expected.
A pre-employment background check and drug testing is required for all new employees of the VSWCD. Drug testing may be repeated randomly during employment. The District does not allow smoking anywhere on District property. Closed-toe shoes must be worn at all times on District property. A writing sample will be requested.
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TITLE: Environmental Education Assistant (EEA)
Position: FILLED
LOCATION: Valencia Soil and Water Conservation District office, Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area, Belen, NM
STATUS: This is a part-time, 10-15 hours per week permanent, non-exempt position.
SALARY: Dependent upon teaching experience, the pay range for this position is $18 per hour to $23 per hour. Additional compensation includes sick and vacation leave, recognized federal holidays, and optional medical, dental, life, and disability insurance, based on the percentage of full-time employment (FTE) for hours > 20/week.
REPORTS TO: the Environmental Education Program Manager
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None.
GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION: As directed, supports the Environmental Education Program (EE Program) of educating students and the general public about the conservation of natural resources and the environment of the Middle Rio Grande, principally at the Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area and adjacent bosque in Belen. Working alongside the EE Program Manager, the education assistant helps implement the EE program.
MAJOR DUTIES:
- Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Works in a collegial and positive manner.
- Assists the EE Program Manager by recruiting key school educators and school districts for class visits to Whitfield. Coordinates schedules with school districts and Pueblo schools for educational programs at Whitfield.
- Calculates school program costs (e.g., the prices of bus transportation and other costs, as approved by the Friends of Whitfield) for submission to the District Financial Assistant.
- Helps guide on-site environmental education programs for youths in kindergarten through high school and educational tours for adult at Whitfield.
- Helps manage the risk and safety of groups of students and visitors to District Conservation Areas.
- Assists with education outreach by designing, writing copy, and posting on social media, the District website, in-house publications, and the local paper, as assigned by the EE Program Manager or District Manager. All posts and articles are subject to review and approval by the EE Program Manager or District Manager.
- Supports the development, enhancement, and periodic updating of current education materials with research, digital photography, and maps.
- Supports workshops, conferences, presentations, and special events.
- Responds to all emails, calls, and other correspondence in a professional and timely manner.
- Completes other duties, as assigned.
REQUIRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, conservation, biology, teaching, or related field is preferred, plus at least 1 year of relevant experience. Excellent communication skills, including in writing (a writing sample will be requested); computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office; and research skills. A “can-do” attitude, optimistic and flexible approach to working with others collaboratively. Willingness to cross-train. Enthusiasm for conservation work. Ability to manage and prioritize workload effectively.
GUIDELINES: Follows VSWCD policies, procedures, and directives (as outlined in the Employee Handbook). Follows federal, state and local laws.
COMPLEXITY: Significant complexity in this position entails professionalism, teamwork, self-motivation, and the exercise of proper judgement in the execution of duties and tasks.
SCOPE AND EFFECT: This position provides essential support for the District’s EE program, assisting the EE Program Manager in strengthening the delivery of EE to youth and adults within and beyond the District.
PERSONAL CONTACTS: This position requires the professional capacity to interact and coordinate effectively and cordially with a variety of contacts, including Board members, supervisory staff, field and occasional staff at the conservation area, the general public, visitors to the Whitfield Conservation Area, and District partner agency representatives.
PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: To fulfill requirements of the District’s day-to-day EE program.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. in the process of setting up tables, chairs for meetings, transporting a display board for offsite presentations, and moving supplies or files in and out of storage. Must be willing and able to work in the field (at Whitfield and elsewhere), including walking and hiking over rough terrain in hot or inclement weather for extended periods of time.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: At least 35 percent of the time, the work is in an outdoor setting of a 97-acre nature preserve and the adjacent bosque, working with the EE Program Manager. Primary workstation is a desk with computer in an open-office environment (until the construction of the new administration building is completed). This position is not eligible for remote work. The EE program assistant will attend education programs at schools and outdoors, trainings, and events during normal workday hours. The EE program assistant will also attend monthly Board meetings that begin at 4:00 p.m. and generally conclude at 7:00 p.m. and may attend occasional Special Board Meetings, as assigned.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: The person in this position must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico State driver’s license. Reliable transportation to work is expected. A pre-employment background check and drug testing is required for all new employees of the VSWCD. Drug testing may be repeated randomly during employment. The District does not allow smoking anywhere on District property. Closed-toe shoes must be worn at all times on District property.
HOW TO APPLY: Submit your resume and cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the position to: [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
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Job Title: Youth Conservation Corps Leader
Position: Currently Filled
Location: Valencia Soil and Water Conservation District (VSWCD), New Mexico
Job Type: Part-Time
Salary: $17.00 per hour commensurate with experience and/or skills.
Work Schedule: 32 hours per week.
REPORTS TO: Reports to Conservation Program Manager
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Provides daily instruction and oversight of work crew members.
GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION: As directed, carries out project implementation including (but not limited to): cutting and spraying invasive vegetation as needed, landscaping, removal of invasive woody plants (Salt Cedar, Siberian Elm, and Russian Olive), garbage removal, road and site improvements, and general facility security. Ensuring the safety of visitors, program participants, volunteers, and staff by keeping entrances and exits at the Visitor & Education Center free from ice, snow, overgrown vegetation, and hazards. Help create trails and habitat enhancements by implementing conservation science/methodology.
MAJOR DUTIES:
- Ability to provide clear work instructions to other field crew and volunteers working on District programs and projects.
- Ability to take appropriate action to ensure safety of crew members and protection of District Property.
- Ability to perform District project work and other duties as assigned.
- Ability to complete building maintenance and cleaning tasks as directed.
- Ability to operate and maintain hand tools and motorized equipment such as: tractors, chainsaws, power tools, etc.
- Ability to successfully complete and perform on the job training, accept and follow instructions, and act with regard for safety and security of District property at all times.
- Ability to maintain a working knowledge of natural resource management information provided for improved efficiency in carrying out direction.
- Ability to communicate well orally and in writing.
- Cleans and maintains District buildings and property.
- Other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Must be able to always follow directions and exercise sound judgement at all times. Must have a willingness to learn about the conservation area, its goals and history, and its plants and animals. Must have a love of nature and eagerness to be part of a team. Must have proficient computer skills for entering timesheets, monitoring information, and other data. Experience in wildlife conservation management and education outreach, including leading tours, is highly desirable.
GUIDELINES: Follows the VSWCD Employment Handbook for policies and directives specific for field workers safety and security. Is fully compliant with all New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps rules and requirements.
COMPLEXITY: Primarily requires proper judgement in carrying out physical tasks and specific details for efficient workday management including proper use and maintenance of tools and equipment, as well as safe operating practices. Ability to always accept instruction and act with safety and security. Maintain a working knowledge of the natural resource management information provided for improved efficiency in carrying out directions.
SCOPE AND EFFECT: Effective and efficient project implementation and management is essential to meeting District land and natural resource goals and objectives as directed by the VSWCD District Director per guidance from the Board of Supervisors.
PERSONAL CONTACTS: Primarily interacts and cooperates with District Staff, visiting Board of Supervisors and Friends of Whitfield volunteers. Works with the public, vendors, law enforcement, neighboring landowners, and volunteers of all ages, as directed. Acts responsibly and respectfully towards others and values their participation in District projects and activities.
PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: To safely and securely carry out management of the conservation area and have as a primary consideration the safety and security of District staff, visitors, and property at all times.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma or GED equivalent is preferred.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Job is physically demanding including light to medium to heavy duty tasks. Requires movement through brush, up and down small hills, some steep inclines, bending, and arching, while operating motorized equipment (as authorized and trained). Working in extreme temperatures with exposure to insects, and in an area with wildlife. Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs. and be in reasonably good physical shape.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed primarily outdoors with occasional indoor work.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: Must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico State driver’s license. Pre-employment background check and drug testing is required for all new hires with the VSWCD, and drug testing may be repeated randomly during employment.
Apply for this position here
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Job Title: NM Youth Conservation Corps
Position: Currently Filled
Location: Valencia Soil and Water Conservation District (VSWCD), New Mexico
Job Type: Part-Time
Salary: $16.00 per hour
Work Schedule: 32 hours per week.
REPORTS TO: Reports to Conservation Program Manager
- Must be between the ages of 17 – 25 at time of hire.
- New Mexico residency
- Unemployed at time of hire
- May be in-school or out-of-school; however, there are restrictions in the number of hours in-school youth under the age of 16 can work.
GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION: As directed, carries out project implementation including (but not limited to): cutting and spraying invasive vegetation as needed, landscaping, removal of invasive woody plants (Salt Cedar, Siberian Elm, and Russian Olive), garbage removal, road and site improvements, and general facility security. Ensuring the safety of visitors, program participants, volunteers, and staff by keeping entrances and exits at the Visitor & Education Center free from ice, snow, overgrown vegetation, and hazards. Help create trails and habitat enhancements by implementing conservation science/methodology.
MAJOR DUTIES:
- Ability to provide clear work instructions to other field crew and volunteers working on District programs and projects.
- Ability to take appropriate action to ensure safety of crew members and protection of District Property.
- Ability to perform District project work and other duties as assigned.
- Ability to complete building maintenance and cleaning tasks as directed.
- Ability to operate and maintain hand tools and motorized equipment such as: tractors, chainsaws, power tools, etc.
- Ability to successfully complete and perform on the job training, accept and follow instructions, and act with regard for safety and security of District property at all times.
- Ability to maintain a working knowledge of natural resource management information provided for improved efficiency in carrying out direction.
- Ability to communicate well orally and in writing.
- Cleans and maintains District buildings and property.
- Other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Must be able to always follow directions and exercise sound judgement at all times. Must have a willingness to learn about the conservation area, its goals and history, and its plants and animals. Must have a love of nature and eagerness to be part of a team. Must have proficient computer skills for entering timesheets, monitoring information, and other data. Experience in wildlife conservation management and education outreach, including leading tours, is highly desirable.
GUIDELINES: Follows the VSWCD Employment Handbook for policies and directives specific for field workers safety and security. Is fully compliant with all New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps rules and requirements.
COMPLEXITY: Primarily requires proper judgement in carrying out physical tasks and specific details for efficient workday management including proper use and maintenance of tools and equipment, as well as safe operating practices. Ability to always accept instruction and act with safety and security. Maintain a working knowledge of the natural resource management information provided for improved efficiency in carrying out directions.
SCOPE AND EFFECT: Effective and efficient project implementation and management is essential to meeting District land and natural resource goals and objectives as directed by the VSWCD District Director per guidance from the Board of Supervisors.
PERSONAL CONTACTS: Primarily interacts and cooperates with District Staff, visiting Board of Supervisors and Friends of Whitfield volunteers. Works with the public, vendors, law enforcement, neighboring landowners, and volunteers of all ages, as directed. Acts responsibly and respectfully towards others and values their participation in District projects and activities.
PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: To safely and securely carry out management of the conservation area and have as a primary consideration the safety and security of District staff, visitors, and property at all times.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma or GED equivalent is preferred.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Job is physically demanding including light to medium to heavy duty tasks. Requires movement through brush, up and down small hills, some steep inclines, bending, and arching, while operating motorized equipment (as authorized and trained). Working in extreme temperatures with exposure to insects, and in an area with wildlife. Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs. and be in reasonably good physical shape.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed primarily outdoors with occasional indoor work.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: Must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico State driver’s license. Pre-employment background check and drug testing is required for all new hires with the VSWCD, and drug testing may be repeated randomly during employment.
Apply for this position here