Conservation Agent

• Responsible for overseeing and maintenance of the Office of the Conservation Department and Conservation Commission. Prepares, supervises or assists others in the preparation of studies, plans, surveys, databases and grant applications related to the conservation of natural resources and the improvement of the environmental quality within the City of Westfield. May assist administration of grants if funded.
• Organizes and maintains all records and files of the Conservation Commission.
• Coordinates the maintenance of and inspects lands in which the Commission holds a restriction.
• Engages in analysis of various conservation data as obtained and collected and prepares reports including findings and recommendations regarding the same.
• Provides information to and receives applications and related filings from members of the public as well as Federal, State and City agencies who require Conservation Commission approval to undertake certain real estate development activities. Reviews applications and other documents as submitted for accuracy and sufficiency, monitors time so as to ensure action by the Commission within legally mandated timeframes.
• Works with Commission to prepare agenda, coordinates the preparation of minutes of meetings, provides technical assistance to Commission as required.
• Conducts field inspections and monitors ongoing projects for compliance with state and local regulations relating to wetland resource areas; issuing enforcement orders if necessary.
• Monitors compliance by developers/builders/ applicants with conditions as imposed by the Commission.
• Acts as liaison for Conservation Commission in their dealings with various City departments/boards and commissions, State and Federal government agencies and elected officials as well as the general public; including scheduling site visits, hearings and meetings, relaying information regarding the permitting process, handling inquiries regarding proposed, pending and approved projects and the intake of complaints.
• Responsible for keeping abreast of changes in State laws and regulations affecting conservation. Responsible for informing the Conservation Commission of these changes and making recommendations on how to implement those changes in the City.
• Oversees and processes the collection of fees of various State and City licenses and permits, prepares deposit in accordance with standard City procedures.
• Prepares department annual budget and presents and advocates during City budget process. Monitors and reviews the expenditures to ensure adherence to budget limitations. Oversees department purchases in conformity with City policies. Maintains records of accounts receivable and payable, being certain that internal records and City generated reports agree.
• Supervises and evaluates staff and interns whose activities are designed to complement or enhance the effectiveness of this position as directed by the Commission. As directed by Commission may also recruit, interview and recommend for hire.
• Attends and participates in all requested meetings which further the municipal mission and conform to the department’s statutory responsibilities. Required to attend regular evening and occasional weekend meetings, events and/or conferences.
• Any other related work as assigned, required or requested to be performed by the Commission.

• Thorough knowledge of the technical aspects and methods of wetland delineation.
• Working knowledge of the principles of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct, train, coordinate and evaluate the activities of staff and others.
• Ability to analyze and recommend solutions to complex, multi-dimensional problems. Ability to independently make decisions and exercise good judgement.
• Ability to write and speak clearly and translate technical terms and information into layperson terms.
• Ability to act professionally, perform and handle management responsibilities, including working under pressure and meeting deadlines.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City officials and employees. Ability to interact with the public in a courteous and professional manner.
• Knowledge and use of computer hardware and relevant computer software, including GIS and the internet. Knowledge of basic office procedures and equipment. Knowledge and use of video-teleconference software such as Zoom.

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