Natural Resources Technician presso City of Apple Valley, MN

About the Department

Assists with planning and implementing policies and programs intended to manage, preserve, and enhance the quality of the lakes, ponds, wetlands, and the urban forest. Includes scientific, professional, and technical work involving the development and execution of restoration, management, and maintenance programs dealing with lakes, invasive species, stormwater, and forestry. Responsible for inspecting all construction sites throughout the City of Apple Valley for compliance with required Natural Resources Management Permits (NRMP) and erosion and sediment control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs). Assists with water quality improvement projects, maintenance, and natural resources grant writing.

Position Duties

1. Effectively communicates the City’s rules and requirements to residents, businesses, and contractors on a broad range of natural resources topics.
2. Reviews Natural Resources Management Permit (NRMP) applications and calculates appropriate fees and securities based on proposed land disturbance. Issues permits to developers and homeowners meeting City requirements for grading, tree preservation, and erosion control. Works with other staff and City departments to maintain site compliance.
3. Inspects all residential and commercial sites throughout the City of Apple Valley for compliance with City ordinance and and Natural Resources Management Permit (NRMP) erosion and sediment control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs). Tracks and releases financial escrows and guarantees for NRMP requirements.
4. Has frequent contact with the public, contractors, and developers while providing erosion control information and enforcing NRMP ESC requirements. Documents inspection activities and maintains permit database. Notifies owners and contractors with non-compliance issues to remedy site compliance in a timely manner following City ordinance requirements.
5. Support shade tree management through inspections, tree preservation requirements, ordinance enforcement, and proactive pest management.  Assist with tree removal, planting, and treatment projects.
6. Supports MS4program and total maximum daily load (TMDL) implementation strategies to meet state pollution reduction mandates (chemical pond or lake treatments, weed and fish population management, winter aeration).
7. Assists in water quality improvement projects including lake and pond monitoring, maintaining nuisance weeds in
    City-owned natural areas, and improving assessment protocols for new and existing stormwater projects.
8. Assists in sustainable planning efforts and reporting for GreenStep Cities and other City metric tracking.
9. Seeks grant funding and grant management for water quality, natural resources, and forestry initiatives.
10. Develop and enhance educational materials for Natural Resources division to utilize for public outreach and events. May support volunteers.
11. Assists with Natural Resources division duties and performs other tasks consistent with the responsibilities of the position as assigned by the City.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Associate Degree in environmental studies, water resources, biology, forestry or closely related field or 2 years of experience in a forestry, erosion control, or natural resources related field.
• Erosion control inspector certification from an accredited organization such University of MN; or must obtain within six months of appointment.
• Working knowledge of water resources management principles, and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion and sediment control.
• Effective communication and presentation skills and ability to perform research, assemble information, and prepare detailed reports.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, other agencies, volunteer groups and residents. Strong customer service orientation; must maintain a positive, professional manner while resolving citizen issues.
• Ability to safely use and operate a watercraft, small tools, and a variety of scientific field equipment including water samplers.
• Ability to work independently in fast-paced environment, work on multiple tasks, and shift priorities frequently.
• Ability to conduct detailed and accurate work while prioritizing tasks and performing assignments under minimal direction.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office programs, including document and spreadsheet management.
• Ability to use asset management software for completing inspections and managing natural resources assets.
• Valid Minnesota driver’s license (Class D) and good driving record.
• Ability to physically inspect construction areas, work outside in all weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, forestry, water resources, biology, or closely related field.
• Certified Tree Inspector or Arborist.
• One year previous erosion and sediment control inspection experience or forestry/natural resources experience.
• Knowledge of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements, TMDLs, experience in grading and construction plan review, site construction management, and final stabilization practices.
• Familiarity with permanent BMP design, native vegetation management, and maintenance needs.
• Possess Minnesota Tree Inspector’s Certification.
• Certified Tree Inspector or ISA Arborist.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Work is performed primarily in a standard office environment and outdoors based on assignment.
• Primary job functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate weight (25 -50 pounds).
• Ability to physically inspect construction areas and perform physical labor commonly encountered in environmental field studies and operations, including working in a variety of outdoor settings and weather conditions.

Other Qualifications

Reports to: Natural Resources Coordinator

Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week. Monday-Friday; Days. Must be available for schedule changes and overtime assignments as necessary.

Pay: Within stated range. Starting rate based on qualifications.

Other:  Offers of employment are contingent on successful result of background investigation.