GENERAL PURPOSE:
The Conservation Agent exercises independent judgment and initiative in the performance of
highly responsible work of a complex and technical nature relative to the interpretation and
enforcement of applicable laws, codes, regulations, and policies, relative to environmental
management and land conservation. The Agent assists the Conservation Commission in the
discharge of the Commission’s statutory and regulatory duties. Errors could result in injury to or
loss of protected resources, could have legal and financial repercussions, and/or cause adverse
public relations. This position may support the needs of more than one town.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types
of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude
them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all the listed
duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth
below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Provides support, coordination, and professional management for, and technical
  assistance to, the Conservation Commission in carrying out its statutory obligations,
  including preparation and administration of department budget.
• Assists the Commission in the administration and enforcement of the Massachusetts
  Wetlands Protection Act and the Town’s Wetlands Protection Bylaw; primarily
  responsible for initiating and/or overseeing enforcement actions under the WPA and/or
  local bylaw.
• Assists the Commission in planning, acquisition, administration, and management of
  municipal conservation land.
• Reviews and analyzes Notices of Intent/other filings and associated documents for
  accuracy, completeness and compliance with the law and regulations; ensures filing fees
  are calculated correctly.
• Assists the Conservation Commission in planning, posting, and holding meetings and
  public hearings; attends Commission meetings and public hearings.
• Assures legal requirements are met including postings, adherence to timelines, approval
  of minutes, and retention of records. Prepares required reports, including inspection
  reports, correspondence, presentations, other written material for Commission review;
  maintains Department files and information.
• Prepares draft decisions for Commission review and adoption.
• Attends professional meetings of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation
  Commissions and other training sessions and meetings as required.
• Participates on Commission’s behalf in DEP proceedings and court appeals, as directed
  by the Commission.
• Works with the Commission to draft or amend wetlands ordinances and associated
  regulations and Commission policies.
• Serves as a community resource for information concerning conservation issues.
  Research issues, provides data analyses, interacts with and aids other town boards and
  departments, as well as state, and federal agencies on issues related to wetlands,
  conservation and environmental matters as required.
• Performs similar or related work as required or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Necessary Knowledge and Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of all federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, and policies
  pertaining to matters under the jurisdiction of the Conservation Commission, including
  but not limited to the Wetlands Protection Act.
• Thorough knowledge of principles and practices relating to land management,
  protection, and conservation.
• Working knowledge of Open Meeting Law, Public Records Law, State Ethics Law.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with, and establish and maintain
  cooperative relationships with, Town officials, employees and staff, governmental
  representatives, contractors, project applicants, attorneys, engineers, and the public.
• Good organizational and analytical skills; detail oriented, takes initiative, and able to
  work independently.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to interpret technical data, read engineering maps and plans, critically analyze
  information.
• Ability to plan and effectively manage budgets.
• Proficiency in the use of word processing, database, and spreadsheet computer
  applications (such as MS Office suite applications).
• Honesty, reliability, discretion, and good judgment essential.

Experience and Training Guidelines:
Required: Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required
knowledge and abilities. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• Bachelor’s degree in public health, Environmental Science, Biology, or other related science
  field.
• At least 4 years technical or professional experience in the areas of wetlands protection, land
  conservation, environmental management, or related field, preferably in a municipal or state
  environment or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which
  provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the
  job.
• Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License, and satisfactory driving record, required.