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Agricultural Stewardship Specialist

by Upper Thames River Conservation Authority

Position Type: Full-time
Location: London, ON
Date Posted: Jul 03, 2024
Upper Thames River Conservation Authority

Job Description

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority invites applications for the position of Agricultural Stewardship Specialist (Permanent, Full Time).

Who Are We?

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s (UTRCA) mission statement is Inspiring a Healthy Environment. The 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed appoint representatives to the UTRCA’s Board of Directors who represent the local urban and rural communities, deciding policies and programs that will lead to a healthy watershed. Our programs and services focus on five key areas:
  • Protecting people and property and supporting safe development;
  • Delivering landowner stewardship;
  • Providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities;
  • Making science-based decisions;
  • Empowering communities and youth.
The Upper Thames River watershed encompasses an area of 3,421 square kilometers and is mainly rural but includes the urban centres of London, Stratford, and Woodstock. The UTRCA serves a total population of approximately 593,700 residents.

UTRCA Conservation Areas provide outdoor recreational opportunities that aim to educate and promote conservation messages to a large audience in an effort to improve the watershed’s natural environment

Who Are You?

As a member of the UTRCA team you will contribute to the mission of Inspiring a Healthy Environment through your skill and expertise, but also through your passion for the environment and calling to support change and make an impact. You will collaborate with like-minded colleagues to facilitate innovative approaches to the work you do in a supportive, friendly, and connected environment. The UTRCA embraces togetherness – you’ll know your colleagues, have a great time working together, and feel like you belong here. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you! 

Summary

The Agricultural Stewardship Specialist is responsible for providing specialized expertise that supports agronomic conservation projects, programs, and policies that further UTRCA’s environmental stewardship initiatives designed to achieve and maintain a healthy watershed ecosystem.

Specifically, this includes:
  • Assist in the development, implementation, and coordination of agricultural stewardship services, programs, and projects that support the goals and objectives of the UTRCA Strategic Plan and Watershed Strategy, and other efforts such as the Thames River (Deshkan ziibi) Shared Waters Approach, Lake Erie Action Plan, and Watershed Report Cards.
  • Provide technical assistance and guidance to farmers and landowners on beneficial management practices (BMPs) related to soil conservation, nutrient management, water use efficiency, and climate change resiliency in agricultural systems.
  • Support agricultural research and demonstration projects that further the UTRCA’s understanding of the agronomic, environmental, and social impact of BMP adoption.
  • Work with Federal (e.g., ECCC, DFO) and Provincial (e.g., OMAFA, MECP) agencies as well as agricultural organizations (e.g., OSCIA, OFA, GFO) to partner, fund, and deliver programs that advance knowledge of BMP practices.
Education
  • University Degree from an accredited post-secondary institution in Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Sciences, or a related discipline. 
  • A valid Ontario Driver’s Licence (G class) is required.
Experience, Knowledge and Skills:
  • Three (3) years of demonstrated knowledge and experience working in agricultural systems, stewardship, and soil conservation or nutrient management.
  • Demonstrated supervisory and project management experience.
  • Thorough understanding of agricultural systems, environmental pressures, water quality and quantity, conservation practices, and environmental regulations.
  • Knowledge of Conservation Authorities Act, Drainage Act, Clean Water Act, and Nutrient Management Act will be considered an asset.
  • Ability to think critically to evaluate problems, gather information, understand cases, and identify best solutions.
  • Excellent communication skills to engage with staff and diverse stakeholder groups.
  • Excellent project management and time management skills.
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, Teams, as well as other database and information management software.
Compensation and Other Information

This position is contingent on external funding. This funding would be confirmed prior to any employment offers being made.
  • Grade 8: $43.06 to $52.40 per hour;
  • Full time, 35 hours per week;
  • Comprehensive Group Benefits, Pension Plan (OMERS) and Vacation package;
  • Free access to UTRCA Conservation Areas (Fanshawe, Pittock and Wildwood).
Application Information

Qualified candidates are invited to apply to be considered for this opportunity. The posting will remain open until filled. Please submit your cover letter and resume to the UTRCA, in confidence, via:

Mail:                1424 Clarke Road, London, ON, N5V 5B9
E-mail:             jobs@thamesriver.on.ca

Please indicate the position title in the subject line of your email. While we thank all applications for their interest in the position, only those applications selected for an interview will be contacted. 

We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment that is free from discrimination and fosters belonging. We encourage and welcome applications from qualified members of the four designated groups, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Accommodation is available and will be provided in all aspects of the hiring process as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation, and as request by applicants. Should you require accommodation in making an application, please contact UTRCA by phone at 519-451-2800 or at the email address above.

Personal information collected in relation to the recruitment process is collected under the authority outlined in the Conservation Authorities Act R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27, s. 18 (1) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: General Manager, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 5B9, 519-451-2800.
 
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Job Location

London, ON

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority Jobs