Conservation Technical Assistance Program (CTAP) Technician (Formerly MAEAP Technician) | Hillsdale County Conservation District | 588 Olds St Bldg 2, Jonesville 49250

POSITION OBJECTIVE:

The CTAP Technician furthers the mission of the Hillsdale Conservation District through the administration of the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and the Regenerative Agriculture Program. The CTAP Technician is responsible for delivering on-farm technical assistance in Hillsdale County, MI. This includes conducting farm-specific risk assessments; coordinating local, state, and federal agency resources to help farmers reduce environmental risks; developing conservation plans; assisting farmers in achieving MAEAP verification; and promoting regenerative management goals. The CTAP Technician also collaborates with Conservation District staff to promote MAEAP and educate diverse audiences on the importance of soil health assessments and improvement in Hillsdale County.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & FUNCTIONS:

• Coordinate all aspects of MAEAP in Hillsdale County (and occasionally surrounding counties), ensuring familiarity with and adherence to Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) grant agreements and guidelines for conducting the program at the local level.
• Conduct MAEAP risk assessments on Hillsdale County farms, greenhouses, and forests as requested by landowners and managers.
• Work with landowners and managers to develop conservation plans to address environmental risks identified during assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and an organized filing system.
• Promote MAEAP, Clean Sweep, pesticide container recycling, equipment calibration, and other stewardship practices through presentations, displays at District and partner events, and communications via social media, print, and other methods.
• Assist landowners in developing emergency management plans for their farms.
• Support landowners with verified Right to Farm complaints in bringing them into conformance with Michigan’s Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs).
• Work closely with the United States Department of Agriculture–Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA–NRCS) to provide technical assistance to producers accessing Farm Bill cost-share funds.
• Provide monthly reports and updates to MDARD and the Hillsdale Conservation District Board of Directors.
• Attend relevant training sessions and events to stay informed about current issues in agriculture and natural resources.
• Organize and host an annual MAEAP Advisory meeting to discuss accomplishments, identify needs, and set goals for the upcoming year.
• Assist the Conservation District with other tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, natural resource management, or a related field from an accredited college or university is preferred, but relevant experience will be considered.
• A minimum of two years of experience in agriculture or natural resource fieldwork is preferred.
• Knowledge of and experience working with agricultural producers and practices is preferred.
• Experience in collaborating on, developing, and delivering agricultural education programs to diverse audiences.
• Experience building partnerships with various stakeholders.

Compensation:

$17-21/hour, based on qualifications. (This is a full-time, grant-funded position with benefits, with the intention for annual grant renewal.)

Benefits:

Health care coverage for up to $5,000 per fiscal year (as budgeted in the grant), paid federal holidays, paid annual and sick leave.