The Upper Loup Natural Resources District is accepting applications for two Natural Resources Technician positions. Both are full-time with benefits package. Responsibilities include but are not limited to the management of the District’s groundwater quality and quantity programs and the District’s tree program.  A bachelor’s or associate’s degree is preferred but not required. For complete job descriptions, contact the NRD at 308-645-2250 or visit our website at www.upperloupnrd.org. Closing date for letter of interest, resume and references is Friday April 26, 2024.

This is a full-time salaried position plus a benefits package which includes health, vision, and dental insurance, retirement, holiday, vacation and sick leave. The employee will work out of the District office in Thedford but must be able to travel throughout the District.  Primary responsibilities include managing and operating the District tree program and Chemigation program. A Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in a Natural Resources or Agricultural field is preferred however the degree requirement may be replaced by experience.  Good communication skills, both written and oral is needed and computer literacy is required. GIS, GPS and mapping experience would be assets. The job requires the ability to deal with varying circumstances and conditions, the use of sound judgment, the ability to work well with people, the initiative to complete assignments, and the ability to coordinate and plan work.  Must be able to work in an outdoor environment and lift a minimum of forty pounds.   Work required licenses or certification (within 12 months of employment) are: Valid Nebraska driver’s license with Class A CDL endorsement, Natural Resources Groundwater Technician certification and acquire State Chemigation certification.

Duties and Responsibilities
1. Tree Program – plan and design of windbreaks, ordering trees, conservation mulch, drip line, tree planting, survival checks, and hiring and supervision of seasonal employees.  Work with homeowners and communities on community forestry programs.
2. Execute District Chemigation Program, physical inspection of irrigation systems to meet permit requirements, data entry and reporting compliance.
3. Arboretum Maintenance
4. Assist with the requirements and implementation of the District’s Ground Water Management Rules and Regulations.
5. Assist with the annual reading of flowmeters, data entry and provide information to other agencies and partners as required.
6. Assist with annual quality sampling and analysis of District network of irrigation and domestic wells as needed and provide information to other agencies and partners as required.
7. Assist with any current grants, studies or projects as needed.
8. Assist with information and education events as needed.
9. Attend meetings, conferences and training as deemed necessary.
10. Help with other NRD services as needed (drill transporting, recycling).
11. Assist with maintenance and repair of District building, grounds, vehicles and equipment.
12. Become knowledgeable in NRD, state, and federal programs as well as work as a liaison with partnering agencies. (example: UNL Extension, USGS, NRCS, NDEE, DNR, etc.)