Seeking qualified applicants for an Assistant Conservation Agent (Planning Analyst) within the Office of Economic Development’s Planning & Regulatory Services Division. The Assistant Conservation Agent is responsible for providing professional and technical assistance and administrative and customer service support primarily to the Worcester Conservation Commission. The position will support the Conservation Planner/Agent in protecting Worcester’s natural resources through administration and enforcement of the Wetlands Protection Ordinance and Regulations, the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and regulations, as well as management of over 850 acres of conservation land. Responsibilities include reviewing and managing projects and applications, coordinating board meetings, conducting development review, preparing legal notices, agendas, and meeting minutes, issuing decisions as well as conducting inspections and investigating complaints.
Bilingual and multilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:Knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental planningAbility to establish and maintain excellent working relationships with diverse populations, organizations, and interestsExcellent organizational, interpersonal, problem-solving skillsExcellent verbal and written communication skillsSelf-starter who can work well both independently and in team environments.Computer proficiency and proficient in Microsoft Office Suite & Adobe AcrobatProficiency with GIS mapping and analysisAbility to quickly learn new software and data management toolsStrong database management skillsProficiency with records research methodology and searching records through use of online databasesDetail-oriented, enthusiastic, and flexibleAbility to work independently and as part of a teamAbility to take initiative to solve problems and identify opportunities for process improvement or streamlining workAbility to prepare reportsAbility to assist in preparing legal noticesAbility to communicate clearly and diplomatically in oral, written, and graphic formAbility to maintain confidentialityAbility to read and interpret maps and complex informationAbility to work in a faced-paced environment and consistently meet tight deadlinesKnowledge and experience providing excellent customer serviceAbility to address questions and customer concerns via telephone, email, and in-person, in a consistently professional and courteous mannerStrong organizational, written, oral communication skillsStrong critical thinking and problem-solving skillsAbility to develop and maintain productive interpersonal relationships and work collaboratively across professional and departmental boundaries within and between organizationsMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology, biology, environmental policy, planning, civil engineering, or other related field ORTwo (2) years of full-time or four (4) years of part-time experience in environmental science or policy, permitting, planning, or related roleProficient with computers, including proficiency in Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Office SuiteExcellent communication skills