DIRECTOR OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION - 40000939

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DEPARTMENT:       

 

Soil and Water Conservation

DATE POSTED:         

   

April 10, 2026

CLOSING DATE:           

 

Open Until Filled

HIRING RANGE:

 

$99,430 - $168,911

POSITION NUMBER:        

    

40000939

JOB TYPE:

Full-Time, 37.5 hrs/week, Exempt

 

 

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: 

Performs highly responsible professional, technical, and administrative work directing the County’s Soil and Water Conservation program. The Director provides leadership in delivering conservation services, environmental education, and resource management initiatives to protect and enhance Durham County’s natural resources and its rich agricultural heritage.

 

Work is performed under the general direction of the Deputy County Manager and the Durham Soil and Water Conservation District Board. The Director exercises full supervision over departmental staff and formulates long-range goals, develops policy recommendations, and collaborates with County leadership and elected officials.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

 

• • Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff; processes employee concerns; directs work; counsels and disciplines employees; and completes performance appraisals.
  • Plans, organizes, assigns, and reviews work; establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors work progress; and provides technical guidance.
  • Enhances and promotes Durham County’s natural resources through technical assistance, environmental education, and economic incentive programs.
  • Contact landowners and land users to assess soil and water conservation concerns; collects and evaluates physical and environmental data.
  • Develops and recommends feasible conservation solutions and assists landowners with development of conservation plans.
  • Provides technical assistance in woodland, wildlife, pond, pasture, stream restoration, stormwater and hay-land management.
  • Develops, implements, and monitors the District’s Annual Plan of Work and Long-Range Plan goals and objectives.
  • Ensure departmental Strategic Plan goals are implemented effectively.
  • Develops environmental education goals, objectives, and community outreach programs.
  • Secures, administers, and monitors grants supporting best management practices and conservation initiatives.
  • Oversee the Nutrient Sensitive Cost Share Program and other conservation funding programs.
  • Prepares and maintains reports, records, policy documents, and performance metrics.
  • Prepares press releases and public communications regarding conservation programs, events, and accomplishments. 
  • Stays abreast of Falls and Jordan Watershed rules effecting agriculture.
  • Ensures compliance with applicable guidelines, codes, ordinances, and regulations related to conservation