Conservation District-Agronomist

Overview

The agronomist is a field position assigned to a county conservation district to provide assistance to
supervisors, co-workers, and partnering agencies in Kansas. The incumbent serves as a specialist
associated with soil, water, plant, crop, and related conservation concerns, and is responsible to assist a
Supervisory District Conservationist (SDC) with guidance and assistance to field personnel and technical
teams for conservation, protection and enhancement of resources.
The agronomist is responsible for planning, applying, guiding, and training activities related to soil
management, crop production, and sustainable practices. They must ensure technical quality and
communicate effectively with associates and the public, while working in both outdoor and office
settings.
The position is a full-time employee of Jewell County Conservation District located in Mankato, KS.

REQUIRED / PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
1. College undergraduate degree in agronomy or related field is required.
2. Graduate level degree in agronomy or related field preferred.
3. Current Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Certification preferred.
4. Background and familiarity with agriculture and/or natural resources regarding conservation practices
5. A firm grasp on mathematical concepts, ability to utilize resource material such as soil survey maps
and aerial imagery to assess existing conditions.

SALARY AND PAY RANGE
Pay for the agronomist position starts at a Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) equivalent
Grade 9 or 10 rating depending on background and experience of a qualifying candidate. The beginning
salary of the Grade 9, Step 1 entry-level is $59,966 plus a $4,800/year health insurance incentive. The
beginning salary of the Grade 10, Step 1 entry-level is $66,036 plus a $4,800/year health insurance
incentive. Candidates entering at the Grades 9 and 10 level are eligible to advance to the Grade 11 level
rating with satisfactory performance evaluations and sufficient time in grade.

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT
Prospective employees must pass all applicable background checks requested by NRCS. They must
possess and maintain a valid state motor vehicle operator’s license for the type of vehicle(s) operated to
perform the duties of this position.
APPLYING
Position will remain open until filled. Qualified candidates should send a resume, transcripts, cover letter
and list of three most recent employers who can be contacted for references to Sherry Koster at
sherry.koster@ks.nacdnet.net. Applicants must reference their last name along with the word
“Agronomist” and the city location(s) for employment consideration in the subject line of the email (e.g.
Smith – Agronomist– Mankato). Additional questions can be directed to 785-378-3961, ext. 133.