Conservation Agent Part-Time

Part-Time Conservation Agent Job Description 15-20 HOURS PER WEEK

Requisition Code: CONAGT
Classification: Exempt
Reports to: Town Manager
Date: July 23, 2025

General Description

Under the general supervision of the Town Manager, the Conservation Agent is responsible for coordinating the functions of the Conservation Commission. The Conservation Agent works with the Conservation Commission to establish budgets and procedures and coordinates the activities of the office to ensure satisfactory relations with the public.

Essential Functions

• Administer and enforce the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL Ch. 131 §40), the Massachusetts Rivers Protection Act, 310 CMR 10.00, Land Disturbance and Stormwater permitting and other regulations.
• Review permit applications, conduct site inspections, and ensure compliance with laws.
• Serve as a liaison between the Conservation Commission and the public, providing guidance on environmental regulations, assisting with the permit application process, and educating the community about conservation practices.
• Work closely with other municipal departments to integrate conservation considerations into broader land use planning and development projects.
• Prepare meeting notices and agendas, review submissions for completeness.
• Schedule hearings for the Commission.
• Provide written comments to the Commission and Technical Review.
• Attend and provide input at Commission meetings.
• Record and transcribe meeting minutes; distribute and file copies accordingly.
• Collect and file correspondence and applications; maintain meeting attendance records; arrange for public notices in the newspaper; prepare and mail written notices.
• Record fee receipts and prepare turnover of receipts and vouchers for payments; follow up on the results of all meetings and public hearings held by the Commission.
• Perform field investigations such as soil evaluations and resource identification.
• Consult with other Town officials and outside consultants to review stormwater permits.
• Coordinate the hiring and payment of consultants and peer reviewers.
• Prepare all necessary documents in conjunction with Commission decisions.
• Compose and type letters, memoranda, plans, and reports, as necessary.
• Keep the Commission on schedule to meet deadlines for action on various submittals.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Basic Knowledge

• Requires a working knowledge of Wetland Protection Act, 310 CMR 10.00, Rivers Act, Town of Oxford Land Disturbance and Stormwater Bylaws.
• Knowledge of principles of land protection and management, the ability to identify native habitats, rare species, fauna, flora and wildlife; working knowledge of wetland boundary identification, geology, hydrology, erosion control techniques, retention and detention ponds and vernal pools.
• Ability to read and interpret engineered plans, drawings, and date tables.
• Experience with office work, including familiarity with common word processing and data management software such as Word, Excel, and Access.
• Requires basic knowledge of local government procedures such as Town Meeting, Board meetings, and the open meeting law.
• Knowledge of all governing laws and procedures.

Education/Experience

A degree in environmental science or a related field, two years of related experience, and/or training in field identification of plants and soils, DEP approval as a soil evaluator, and office experience in a public service environment or any equivalent combination of education, training, certification, and work experience. 

Independent Action

Under general supervision, function independently within a broad scope of established guidelines and department procedures to complete necessary tasks in a timely manner. 

Physical Requirements

Physical demands of the position include: 

•  Valid Driver’s license is required.
• Walking through terrain while carrying basic field measurement devices.
• Operation of an auger or shovel to take soil samples.
• Ability to distinguish soil colors for comparison to Munsell color charts. 
• Driving a motor vehicle.
•  Lifting and sorting files.
• Using general office equipment 

Job Environment

Work is performed outdoors and in typical office conditions. Work responsibilities are variable, with periods of extreme activity occurring several times a year. Work includes evening public meetings that may require prolonged periods for record-keeping. Work is sometimes fast­ paced and high-pressure. Position requires frequent communication with other Town departments, attorneys, engineers, wetlands consultants, and the general public. Communication is typically by telephone, in-person discussion, and in writing. Errors could result in delay and confusion and have significant legal and/or financial repercussions. Given the nature of the position, the individual has access to sensitive information about potential real estate acquisitions and litigation to enforce wetlands regulations requiring the application of appropriate judgment, discretion, and professional protocols.

Supervisory Responsibility

May oversee employees, consultants, and interns on a project-by-project basis. 

Salary : $25 - $36