Conservation Project Planner

Coordinates all activities associated with monitoring and tracking park and trail improvement projects and other capital projects. Works directly with professional services consultants and contractors to ensure deliverables fall within the applicable scope of work and budget. Works and collaborates closely with other Conservation department staff including the Outdoor Recreation Planner and Operations Manager. Provides direction and oversight for contractors and serves as the Conservation department’s on-site representative while monitoring and tracking progress of projects. Identifies and helps secure alternative funding sources to accomplish capital improvement projects. Performs advanced-level professional planning work; and provides assistance to the Outdoor Recreation Planner on more complex projects. Work is performed under general supervision of the Executive Director. Coordinates with the Outdoor Recreation Planner to complete designs of facilities for capital improvements and maintenance projects by preparing plans according to code, presenting to staff and others, preparing cost estimates, doing research, gaining group consensus, coordinating construction and preparing site plans.  Coordinates with design consultants at all phases of the design process to ensure accurate communication, plan design and project implementation. Coordinates all aspects of water quality and land protection projects together with park and trail improvements from implementation through completion and project closeout using the County’s financial software and other related software systems.  Coordinates accurate upkeep of all project related paper and electronic files including contracts, payments, grant documentation, department GIS layers, etc. Monitors and tracks various documents including but not limited to: project write-ups/scope; final signed plans and specifications; cost estimates; funding sources; required permits (local, state, federal); pre-construction meetings; project progress meetings; project timelines; public hearings (if applicable); requests for proposals (RFP); bidding documents; professional services contracts; construction contracts; grant contracts and reimbursements; project expenses; statement of project completion; post project meetings. Writes Request for Proposals (RFPs) for professional services for water quality and land protection projects and park and trail improvement projects. Coordinates and works closely with the department’s Outdoor Recreation Planner, and other administrative staff to conduct and track project progress meetings and inspections for compliance with project plans and specifications. Supervises contractor activities on a daily basis or as needed at project locations to ensure conformance with approved plans and specifications and that a quality product is delivered. Serves as primary department contact with construction contractors. Coordinates with appropriate staff to communicate project planning and management timelines to meet project timeline schedules, Conservation Board approvals, bid letting deadlines, etc. Assists with identifying outside funding sources for water quality and land protection projects and park and trail improvement projects.  Authors grant applications, coordinates grant contract reporting and reimbursement requirements. Checks project invoices for accuracy, reviews and certifies pay applications, monitors project budgets and expenditures and prepares grant claims for reimbursements for project related federal, state and local grants. Prepares internal and external project progress reports as required. Monitors and tracks projects for ADA/Accessibility Audit corrective actions and follows up as needed. Uses Geographical Information and Positioning Systems (GIS and GPS) to record and document all new and existing utility locations and generates maps as needed showing location of water, electrical, fiber optics, septic/sewer utilities. Assists with project survey work by using survey equipment for property survey, facility layout, road construction, site analysis and watershed management projects. Oversees the playground inspection program through the Certified Playground Inspector Program and monitors and tracks inspection reports done by park district personnel. Coordinates and tracks corrective actions for all playgrounds. Develops and monitors drinking water well logs and records. Works with park staff to ensure water systems and associated sampling plans comply with regulations related to drinking water. Performs all other related duties as assigned.   

QUALIFICATIONS:    Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university in planning, landscape architecture, engineering, or a related field and three (3) years related work experience required; OR a Master’s Degree in one (1) of the above related fields and two (2) years related work experience required. Knowledge of the methods, practices, and equipment used in various construction activities. Ability to work with other employees and contractors during all phases of construction projects. Knowledge of federal, state and local laws/regulations pertaining to permits and requirements for construction activities. Ability to identify and develop key partnerships and cultivate good relationships with other governmental and non-governmental entities. Ability to identify and evaluate key parcels for protection through conservation easements or acquisition. Ability to use Geographic Information and Positioning Systems (GIS and GPS), AutoCAD, survey equipment or related software to develop plans and maintain accurate records. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing by preparing clear reports. Ability to walk or stand long periods of time on uneven surfaces in variable weather conditions, at remote locations on difficult terrain under physically demanding circumstances. Must have the ability to function effectively, independently and as a team member of Conservation. Must have proficient computer skills. Valid State of Iowa Driver's License required.  Ability to become a Certified Playground Inspector. Must pass a County physical examination, which includes a drug test after offer of employment. 

Regular work attendance required.  

SHIFT:  7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.  Monday – Friday     

DEADLINE:  Sunday, March 7, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.  

APPLY AT:    www.linncounty.org/jobs (Current Openings)