Natural Resources Conservation Service Logo
Position Title
Soil Conservationist
Agency
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Announcement Number
23-DE-11792851-JR Opens in new window
Open Period
Tuesday, January 31, 2023 to Monday, February 6, 2023
For preview purposes only. To apply, please return to the USAJOBS announcement and click the Apply button.
Eligibilities
1. Do you claim Veterans’ Preference? (limit characters)
2. Are you a current or former federal employee displaced from the agency hiring for this position? If yes, confirm:
  • you are located in the same local commuting area of the vacancy; AND,
  • you are applying to a position that is at or below the grade level of the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
  • you are applying to a position that does not have greater promotion potential than the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
  • your last performance rating of record is at least fully successful or the equivalent.
For more information, review the USAJOBS Help Center

To verify your eligibility, you must submit supporting documentation such as a Reduction in Force (RIF) separation notice or a Proposed Removal/Separation notice to include your latest performance rating (if the notice does not have this information included, you must submit a copy of your most recent performance appraisal) and a copy of your latest Notification of Personnel Action, Standard Form 50.
(limit characters)
3. Are you a current or former federal employee displaced from a position in a federal agency other than the agency hiring for this position?

If yes, confirm:
  • you are located in the same local commuting area of the vacancy; AND,
  • you are applying to a position that is at or below the grade level of the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
  • you are applying to a position that does not have greater promotion potential than the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
  • your last performance rating of record is at least fully successful or the equivalent.
For more information, review the USAJOBS Help Center.

To verify your eligibility, you must submit supporting documentation such as a Reduction in Force (RIF) separation notice to include your latest performance rating (if the notice does not have this information included, you must submit a copy of your most recent performance appraisal) and a copy of your latest Notification of Personnel Action, Standard Form 50.
(limit characters)
Preferences
1. Select the location(s) you want to be considered for. You must choose at least one location. (limit characters)
2. Select the lowest grade you are willing to accept for this position. (limit characters)
Assessment 1
The following questions are designed to measure your education and experience in relation to the basic qualifications for this position. All applicants must supply transcripts or other supporting documentation that demonstrates how they meet the educational and experience requirements for the position. Failure to do so will result in your disqualification. (limit characters)
1. From the descriptions below, select the one response that best describes how your background meets the basic requirements for the Soil Conservationist, GS-0457 position.
(limit characters)
2. From the descriptions below, please select the one response that best describes how your experience meets the requirements for the Soil Conservationist, GS-0457-05 position.
(limit characters)
3. From the descriptions below, please select the one response that best describes how your experience meets the requirements for the Soil Conservationist, GS-0457-07 position.
(limit characters)
4. From the descriptions below, please select the one response that best describes how your experience meets the requirements for the Soil Conservationist, GS-0457-09 position.
(limit characters)
For each task in the following group, choose the statement from the list below that best describes your experience and/or training. Please select only one letter for each item. (limit characters)
Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided. (limit characters)
5. Gather preliminary resource data on the physical features of agricultural and other natural resource sites (e.g. soil limitations, erosion, surface drainage, and sedimentation) to be used in conservation planning.
(limit characters)
6. Perform resource planning assignments for farmers or rural landowners which require the interpretation of soil, water, or other environmental data to develop sound land use plans.
(limit characters)
7. Assist landowners in selecting and installing measures that conserve and improve the soil, plant, water, wildlife, and recreational resources of a land area.
(limit characters)
8. Write informational stories and news articles related to conservation.
(limit characters)
9. Interpret soil survey data for community owned land sites.
(limit characters)
10. Evaluate the effects of land use alternatives on soil, water, plant, air, and animal resources.
(limit characters)
11. Visit areas affected by erosion problems to identify causes and determine solutions.
(limit characters)
12. Provide guidance on soil and water conservation methods, measures, and techniques to community groups and rural landowners/users.
(limit characters)
13. Review work to ensure it is accurate and meets applicable standards.
(limit characters)
14. Make minor changes or adjustments in conservation plans during application, as requested by the farmer.
(limit characters)
15. Ensure uniform application of protocols for collection of natural resources data are consistent and accurate.
(limit characters)
16. Prepare reports and technical notes on conservation plans.
(limit characters)
17. Assist with training to ensure personnel are adequately qualified to perform assigned tasks.
(limit characters)
18. Speak to groups about soil and water conservation measures and plans.
(limit characters)
19. Maintain contacts with individuals and groups related to soil conservation issues and concerns.
(limit characters)
20. Review and explain conservation plans to farmers.
(limit characters)
21. Participate in meetings to coordinate work and prioritize where technical assistance will be provided.
(limit characters)