Conservation Agent

Under the general direction of the Director of Conservation, perform administrative and technical work related to the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, the Town of Andover's Wetlands Protection By-laws and any rules and regulations adopted by the Town of Andover under the authority of the Conservation Commission. Independently conduct assigned project site inspections and plan reviews with a principal focus on residential properties, municipal projects, and commercial projects. Present recommendations to the Conversation Commission. Coordinate environmental plan approvals and reviews with the Board of Health for septic system and sewer construction and participate in the Interdepartmental Review Process on proposed development projects. Participate in periodic public engagement and outreach activities including nature walks, guided hikes and organized reservation cleanup events, and help represent the Andover Conservation Division in public settings in Andover and the region. Assist in enforcement of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and Andover's Wetlands Protection By-Law. Conduct field review of wetland resource area boundary delineations and related technical support data. Draft and issue permits for review by the Conservation Commission. Investigate complaints, violations, and non-compliance issues. Issue legal notices such as Notices of Non-Compliance , Enforcement Orders and Emergency Certification relative to violations of a criminal statute. Initiate legal penalties and provide written explanations to the Conservation Commission. Provide technical assistance to the public relative to various environmental regulations and prepare resources such as maps and written recommendations prepare inspection reports and other written materials. Provide technical and administrative support to the Conservation Commission. Assist in preparation of all meeting agendas. Review all new applications, checking for completed information before hearing is advertised. Present projects and recommendations at public hearings. Prepare related legal documentation and decisions such as conditions of approval and specifications. Represent the division with external agencies in professional and procedural matters, including the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, , the Massachusetts Society of Municipal Conservation Professionals, and the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions. Perform permitting reviews and associated tasks in support of Planning Board consideration of applications, as necessary. Perform the duties of the Director of Conservation in his or her absence. Perform related duties as required. Skills, Knowledge and Abilities Working knowledge of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, M.G.L. Ch. 131, s.40, and the Andover Wetlands By-Law, Article XIV. Ability to research, understand, and interpret regulations and to enforce them impartially. Ability to develop plans, programs and recommendations in support of the goals of the Andover Conservation Division and the Andover Conservation Commission. Ability to interpret topographical maps and engineering design plans. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; to establish positive relationships for the Town, department and/or division; and to interact effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders. Ability to perform multiple tasks and deal effectively with interruptions. Ability to perform detailed work accurately and with dispatch. Must be computer literate, including familiarity with Microsoft software products and basic GIS functions. Education and Experience Duties require a Bachelor's degree in environmental science, botany, geology or related science; one year of work experience for a Conservation Commission or land use regulatory agency; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

Supervises volunteers in support of Conservation Division activities such as building boardwalks, litter cleanups, and invasive plant removal efforts. In concert with the Director, supervises administrative staff as needed.

PHYSICAL ELEMENTS

Moderate physical effort is required to conduct field studies in and near wetland areas and construction sites within the Town of Andover. Duties require walking on uneven or dense terrain. Work is performed both in and out of doors, under varying and sometimes disagreeable weather such as snow, sleet and rain. Some work performed in a normal office setting. Must attend semi-monthly evening meetings and perform periodic weekend site visits.

FLSA Status:

Exempt Grade:

IE-20

Standard Work Week:

36.25 hours

Job Code:

6421 The Town of Andover is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The Town is committed to advancing its workforce culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Risk Code:

9410