Natural Resource Specialist, GS-0401-11/12 (38367)

Serves as senior natural resources specialist and Recreation Business Line Manager. Provides expertise in the areas of natural resources conservation, preservation, restoration and use, and park planning, policy and administration to support the management of all natural resources at eight lakes within a three-state area. The incumbent applies professional principles of wildlife management, land management, soil conservation, park administration, public use management, as well as other biological and social sciences.

Develops and coordinates district natural resources management programs and policies for all eight district lakes, with adjoining Corps Districts, and with other federal, state, and local government entities. Interprets policies, directives and develops supplemental district guidance as necessary. Works with other resource specialists to integrate the natural resource management program with all other resource programs to achieve multiple-use management goals and objectives. Serves on Northwestern Division and HQUSACE special tasks forces and work teams to develop policies and programs for regional and Corps-wide application. Coordinates district-wide events and training. Answer requests for information about the natural resources program for a variety of agencies, the public and Congressional sources.

Utilizes an interdisciplinary approach in reviewing operational management plans for the development and administration of civil works water resource development lakes in the district. Applies professional knowledge of biological systems, land management principles and park management to conduct studies to determine public use requirements and changes in environment caused by the multi-purpose operation of lakes. Modifies, refines, and/or supplements natural resources management and public use plans to meet current and foreseeable conditions. Consults with other federal and non-federal agencies with pertinent experience and established interest in the Corps natural resources management program. Provides for public involvement to obtain the views of interested parties. Performs site review of proposed developments or private exclusive use programs at lakes to ensure they comply with current Corps natural resources management policies and to ensure they are compatible with environmental conditions of the area. Coordinates with other district elements to assure that the design and location of proposed developments will create a minimal environmental impact or operational issues.

Serves as the senior natural resource specialist and district authority for park administration, planning, and management. Develops and establishes overall policy for natural resources and park planning, development, and management. Considers the impacts of park management programs on the natural, scenic, cultural and historical values of the environment and public lands. Identifies problems in the development and management of park resources, to include the more controversial and complex matters. Develops guidelines, standards and procedures for park planning elements, such as: measuring and reporting public use and predicting demand; enforcing and maintaining fee programs; analyzing and reporting the economic impact of Corps induced tourism on local and regional economies; identifying environmental impacts of facility development and public use and other resource planning and management aspects. Provides technical guidance in studies and development of master plans and public use plans. Utilizes the District's Visitor Estimation and Reporting System and other natural resources management databases to prepare reports and other studies on the impacts of public use on Corps managed natural resources, such as, grasslands, forests, and associated water resources. Represents the District at conferences with federal, state, local officials and public organizations and interests groups to discuss Corps natural resource planning and land management efforts and issues. Develops partnerships with other governmental and public organizations to improve the Corps responsiveness to public needs and issues. Reviews and makes recommendations regarding requests for outgrants, leases, and licenses on government land for compatibility with the lake master plan and operation management plan. Evaluates plans and specifications for developmental activities submitted by public and private interests to determine their compliance with applicable Corps regulations and sound land management principles. Coordinates user fee (SRUF) program priorities with facility managers and with other district elements in the design and development of facilities financed with SRUF funds.

Develops and implements programs to inform or gather information from the public about lake programs and natural resources. Works with lake managers to identify interpretive products that are needed to provide visitor information on Corps facilities, the natural environment, and to protect the safety and health of the visiting public. Responds to public and Congressional inquiries and letters regarding natural resource issues, questions, policies and complaints. Creates, constructs, and staffs Corps exhibits at meetings, shows, fairs, and other special public information functions.

Provides technical advice on, or implements, national Corps programs at the district level. Corps programs include the Shoreline Management, Code of Federal Regulation Title 36 Visitor Assistance, Natural Resource Management Assessment (Recreation CWBI-OPS-NRM Module, CWBI-OPM-NRM-PSA Module), Recreation User Fee, Corps Sign Program, National Recreation Reservation Service, and the Corps Natural Resources Research Program. Attends professional conferences and meetings to represent the Corps and maintain awareness of current natural resource management programs, issues and trends that have applicability to district public lands and waters. May serve as instructor for nationwide courses such as Visitor Assistance, Interpretive Services, Operations &Maintenance Contracting, and Boat Operator.

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD, Section 9905 to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. Location will be negotiable.

Other Requirements:
• Applications must be submitted after 12:01 AM (EST) of the posted Job Posting Open Date and before 11:59 PM (EST) of the posted Job Posting Close Date to receive consideration.
• All positions require the applicant to be a citizen of the United States.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, are required to register for Selective Service prior to appointment.
• A trial or probationary period may be required.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.
• This position has a Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel requirement of 15% of the time.
• This position requires that the incumbent possess or obtain and maintain a valid state Driver's License in one of the 50 U.S. states or possessions to operate vehicles.