Planning and Research Associate I - 1042 (Augusta)

Location: Augusta,Maine,United States

OFFICE ASSOCIATE II

Opening Date:

April 26, 2024

Closing Date:

May 10, 2024

Location:

Augusta*

Position #:

00500-1042

Position Type:

Full Time (Limited Period)

Class Code:

0039

Grade/Salary:

Grade 20 - $20.08 - $26.96/Hour

*This position is located in Augusta and may work according to DACF's Telework Policy.

Are you looking to improve Maine’s outdoor recreation experience? 

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is looking for a highly organized individual who can support the planning, research, and development of the State of Maine’s trail system. This is a full-time, limited period position. 

BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION: This position will assist the project partners of the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) with technical services related to the development and renovation of recreational trails across the State of Maine. By applying current best practice strategies to trail development and/or renovation projects this position will help to assure the accessibility and sustainability of trail systems and provide the public with a renewed source of outdoor recreation opportunity for future generations. A significant amount of travel across the state is required in order to fulfill the duties of this position. Overnight accommodation will range from camping in state parks to periodic hotel stays based on season and field conditions. Work is performed under limited supervision.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collecting, analyzing, and presenting facts, and statistics, relevant to the development of policies for effective resource utilization.
• Applying research principles to various phases of projects that are considered by a superior to provide a basis for planning programs.
• Conducting field assessments to inform project plans.
• Coordinating with public and private agencies to identify avenues to execute trail plans (including confirming that plans are aligned and budgeted appropriately).
• Creating funding applications per federal guidelines and drafting Requests for Proposals according to state procurement rules.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Experience building/renovating recreational trails.
• Knowledge of trail assessment, construction, and renovation best practices.
• Experience building or knowledge of common trail structures.
• Knowledge of Accessible trail standards (i.e. United States Forest Service (USFS), Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG), and the Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG). 
• Knowledge of GIS and database management (including ArcGIS, SQL, Microsoft Access, and related software). 
• Ability to establish connections and communicate with park and land managers throughout the State of Maine to assess trail use and needs that are related to current conditions in relation to desired uses.
• Ability to use a data-driven approach to assess project priorities, gaps in recreational infrastructure, appropriate interventions, and preliminary construction plans. 
• Valid driver's license required.

For questions specific to the position, please contact Doug Beck by e-mail at: doug.beck@maine.gov  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A six (6) year combination of education, training, and/or experience providing a knowledge of the principles of research and planning.

Preference will be given to candidates with a Bachelor's, or higher, degree in outdoor recreation or an equivalent area of study in addition to work building trails and trail structures and/or the management/stewardship of trail systems.

HOW TO APPLY: Interested applicants will need to complete and submit an online State of Maine Direct Hire Application, along with a Cover Letter, and detailed Resume at: https://www.maine.gov/nrsc/jobs/index.shtml#acf

Direct Hire Application forms can be obtained by accessing the NRSC website at: https://www.maine.gov/nrsc/jobs/application.shtml 

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO APPLY ONLINE: Please mail the application materials listed in the "How to Apply" section to: Natural Resources Service Center, c/o Kristin McCamish, 32 Blossom Lane, Marquardt