Conservation Technician I (#MGCA01)
$30,239.00 Yearly Min / $37,799.00 Yearly Mid / $45,359.00 Yearly Max

Conservation Technician II (#MGCA02)
$32,178.00 Yearly Min / $40,222.00 Yearly Mid / $48,266.00 Yearly Max

Conservation Technician III (#MGCA03)
We are currently accepting applications for this position. To apply, please close this pop-up window and then click on the link for Career Opportunities.
$34,240.00 Yearly Min / $42,800.00 Yearly Mid / $51,360.00 Yearly Max

Conservation Technician IV (#MGCA04)
We are currently accepting applications for this position. To apply, please close this pop-up window and then click on the link for Career Opportunities.
$36,435.00 Yearly Min / $45,544.00 Yearly Mid / $54,653.00 Yearly Max

Conservation Technician Supervisor (#MGCA05)
$41,255.00 Yearly Min / $51,569.00 Yearly Mid / $61,883.00 Yearly Max

Conservation Technician Manager (#MGCA06)
$46,714.00 Yearly Min / $58,393.00 Yearly Mid / $70,072.00 Yearly Max

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Description of Occupational Work

Conservation Technicians perform a variety of natural resources conservation or preservation duties related to the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public.

Employees apply natural resources conservation or preservation principles and practices, as well as related laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures in the assigned area.

Primary work involves performing various technical support activities and project work to assist agency staff with managing and maintaining land, water, and other natural resources, monitoring wildlife populations, controlling invasive species, and implementing conservation plans. Work also includes providing information to the public on conservation or preservation efforts and related activities.

Note: Advancement of employees through the career ladder is dependent on an agency’s/department's operational needs and distribution of work. The career ladder incorporates levels I, II, III, and IV; therefore, all positions allocated into the Conservation Technician career ladder are classified at the IV level (the highest level in the career ladder). The I level is to provide entry for hiring new employees into the class series but does not preclude hiring new employees at higher levels. To implement the career ladder, current employees are assigned to the level for which they meet job requirements and promotional standards. Employees may be promoted through the career ladder in accordance with promotional standards for those levels assigned to an agency. The promotional standards, a selection document under separate cover, set forth the criteria that identify, measure, and verify successful performance at each level.

The Conservation Technician Supervisor and Conservation Technician Manager, although not part of the career ladder, provide competitive opportunities for movement of employees.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, employees can complete job duties of a similar kind not specifically listed.

Performs a variety of natural resources conservation or preservation duties for assigned agency operations such as propagating, seeding, transplanting, cultivating, harvesting, and care of trees, flowers, shrubs, lawns, and crops, turf/grounds management, integrated pest management, herbicide/fertilizer application, layout and design, macroalgae harvesting, channel marking, debris management, and assessing soil composition and environmental conditions.

Ensures the safe use of state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities by the public and resolves safety concerns or other issues.

Applies conservation or preservation principles and practices, as well as related laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.

Completes maintenance and repairs in a variety of labor/trades fields such as plumbing, carpentry, painting, welding, construction, and grounds maintenance.

Operates marine, land-based, and construction equipment and vehicles.

Provides information to the public and responds to inquiries regarding conservation or preservation efforts and related activities; assists in responding to storms or other related, agency-specific situations.

Participates in special projects and initiatives.

Completes standard forms/applications and maintains records, logs, and reports.

Maintains applicable tools, equipment, and supplies.

Performs other related duties as required.

Levels of Work

The level of work in this class series is based on an employee’s independence, size and scope of responsibilities, complexity of duties, decisions made, and required experience.

Conservation Technician I

This is the entry level, performing a variety of natural resources conservation or preservation duties related to the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public. Employees perform the full range of Essential Functions, completing routine and standardized assignments under close supervision. Employees gain proficiency in performing a variety of construction/building trades, landscaping, equipment operation, maintenance and repair, or other assigned technical support activities.

Receives close supervision from a technical or administrative supervisor; the supervisor provides specific instructions on all assignments, and frequent and detailed review of progress, accuracy, and quality of work. Supervisory advice or assistance is readily available.
Operates and maintains basic tools, equipment, and vehicles such as trimmers, chainsaws, woodchippers, tractors, dump trucks, mowers, outboard motorboats, snow shovels/blowers, or other landscaping/power tools and equipment.
Performs minor preventative maintenance and repairs of tools, equipment, and vehicles such as fueling, lubricating and greasing parts, changing oil, testing for fluid levels and charge, checking, repairing and/or replacing various standard parts, or assembling alternators, wiper blades, fan belts, spark plugs, lights, and/or ignition systems.
Seeks guidance from higher-level staff on work that is outside a range of specified, acceptable procedures, standards, alternatives, and practices.
Learns applicable laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.
Communicates effectively with internal or external staff and the public to collect, exchange, or provide information.

Conservation Technician II

This is the experienced level, performing a variety of natural resources conservation or preservation duties related to the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public. In addition to work performed at the Conservation Technician I level, employees independently perform the full range of Essential Functions under general supervision, and gain proficiency in performing complex construction/building trades, landscaping, equipment operation, maintenance and repair, or other assigned technical support activities.

Receives general supervision from a technical or administrative supervisor; the supervisor provides general direction on all assignments, and regular review of progress, accuracy, and quality of work.  Supervisory advice or assistance is provided as needed. 
Coordinates with foresters, scientists, park, facility, or other related agency staff to ensure effective completion of work assignments and report/resolve safety concerns or other issues and complaints.
Provides input into the planning and oversight of small projects and initiatives and may lead portions of such projects and initiatives.
Orders applicable supplies, tools, and equipment.
May lead staff or volunteers by assigning, monitoring, and reviewing work and providing on-the-job training, guidance, and direction.

Conservation Technician III

This is the advanced level, performing a variety of natural resources conservation or preservation duties related to the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public. In addition to work performed at the Conservation Technician II level, employees independently perform complex work, under general supervision. Examples of factors contributing to complexity include greater diversity and complexity of work performed, requiring more responsibility and independent decision-making, particularly in matters impacting public safety or involving expensive equipment/costly repairs.

Receives general supervision from a technical or administrative supervisor; the supervisor provides general direction on all assignments, and regular review of progress, accuracy, and quality of work. Supervisory advice or assistance is provided as needed.
Operates and maintains complex/heavy equipment such as a bulldozer, skid/front end loader, backhoe, forklift, airboat, tugboat, drill, planter, fire equipment, or snowplow. Employees are proficient in the placement of equipment and its limitations or capability within certain environmental conditions/terrain.
Independently performs complex repairs of equipment such as inspecting and diagnosing malfunctions of motorized equipment or engines. May assist higher level staff on major repairs or overhauls.
Performs advanced level trades work in carpentry, painting, plumbing, concrete or masonry, or other applicable areas such as welding, complex trail repairs, or maintaining and repairing pavilions, playgrounds, or other facility-specific amenities.
Provides input into the planning and oversight of small projects and initiatives and independently completes such projects and initiatives.
Leads staff or volunteers by assigning, monitoring, and reviewing work and providing on-the-job training, guidance, and direction.
May interpret management plans, including blueprints, to ensure maintenance and implement projects.
Communicates effectively with internal or external staff and the public to answer questions on on-going projects and initiatives, and to explain applicable laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.

Conservation Technician IV

This is the lead level, performing natural resources conservation or preservation support work to assist in the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of forests, habitats, shorelines, beaches, and waterways, or other state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public. In addition to work performed at the Conservation Technician III level, employees independently lead projects and staff, under minimal supervision.

Receives minimal supervision from a technical supervisor or administrative supervisor; the supervisor defines objectives, priorities, and deadlines and assists the employee with unusual situations.
Leads projects and initiatives and is accountable for work production, monitoring progress and workflow, ensuring the completion of deadlines, scheduling work, establishing work standards, evaluating equipment/maintenance needs and ensuring that projects comply with applicable permits, laws, rules and regulations.
Operates the most complex equipment such as hydraulic dredges, cranes, research equipment, toolcats, macroalgae harvesters, or excavators.
Oversees and understands complex repair methods and techniques and may review and recommend the appropriateness of cost estimates and work schedules.
Implements plans, projects, and initiatives and provides input and recommendations on planning such as costs, time, and materials or modifications based on field/environmental conditions.
May supervise one merit full-time position, volunteers, casual/seasonal, and/or contractual staff. The elements of supervision include performing the following on a regular and continuing basis: planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, disciplining, and recommending hire, termination, and promotion.

Conservation Technician Supervisor

This is the supervisory level of conservation or preservation support work assist in the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of forests, habitats, shorelines, beaches, and waterways, or other state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public. In addition to work performed at the Conservation Technician IV level, employees supervise and ensure the proper training and proficiency of staff and resolve escalated issues.

Receives minimal supervision from an administrative supervisor; the supervisor defines objectives, priorities, and deadlines and assists the employee with unusual situations.
Supervises two or more merit full-time positions, which may also include volunteers, casual/seasonal, and/or contractual staff. The elements of supervision include performing the following on a regular and continuing basis: planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, disciplining, and recommending hire, termination, and promotion.
Ensures deadlines and performance measures are met and monitors workflow to adjust priorities.
Participates with management in planning, prioritizing and implementing complex projects including layout, design, materials, equipment and resources and provides input to management in preparation of budget proposals for all levels of projects.
Ensures safety and compliance with applicable laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures, and makes recommendations for new or revised processes, procedures, or other improvement.
Communicates effectively with internal or external staff and the public to resolve escalated issues and ensure safety and compliance.

Conservation Technician Manager

This is the management level of natural resources conservation or preservation projects and programs that assist in the protection, preservation, improvement, and maintenance of forests, habitats, shorelines, beaches, and waterways, or other state owned and/or maintained grounds and facilities used by the public. This level is distinguished from previous levels by managing assigned conservation or preservation projects, programs, and staff through supervisory staff that directly report to this class. Supervision at this level is broader, over mechanics, administrative support, or other support staff, in addition to Conservation Technicians.

Supervises two or more merit full-time positions, one of which must be at the supervisory level. The elements of supervision include performing the following on a regular and continuing basis: planning, assigning, reviewing, evaluating, coaching, training, disciplining, and recommending hire, termination, and promotion.
Develops project plans including, but not limited to, estimating costs, time, materials, and resources estimates, including hiring of contractual employees.
Administers contracts including such activities as writing specifications, reviewing bids and awarding contracts, monitoring contractor work, approving changes and payments.
Responds to public comments and inquiry regarding natural resource issues.
Communicates effectively with internal or external staff and the public regarding on-going projects and initiatives, to resolve compliance, safety, or other complex issues, and review and ensure project and program goals and objectives are met.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The intent of the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is to give a general indication of the core requirements for all positions in the class series; therefore, the KSAs listed are not exhaustive or necessarily inclusive of the requirements of every position in the class.

Knowledge of natural resources conservation or preservation principles, practices, methods, and techniques.
Knowledge of plant and animal life and agricultural/horticultural/arboricultural practices.
Knowledge of applicable natural resources and environmental laws, rules, and regulations, including safety regulations.
Knowledge of chemical application and materials.
Knowledge of routine preventative equipment and tool maintenance.
Knowledge of the safe and efficient operation of basic marine, land-based, and construction tools, equipment, and vehicles.
Skill in performing less complex trades duties.
Ability to read and comprehend technical material including schematics.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to prepare records and reports.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Conservation Technician II requires:

Skill in the safe and efficient operation of applicable tools, equipment, and vehicles.
Skill in performing trades duties.
Skill in equipment maintenance.
Skill in applying natural resources conservation or preservation principles, practices, methods, and techniques.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Conservation Technician III requires:

Skill in the safe and efficient operation of applicable complex tools, equipment, and vehicles.
Skill in performing complex trades duties.
Skill in advanced equipment repairs.
Skill in the advanced application of natural resources laws, rules and regulations in land and/or water based construction projects.
Ability to provide on-the job training, guidance and direction to staff.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Conservation Technician IV requires:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of project management.
Knowledge of the principles, practices and methods of construction.
Skill in operating heavy equipment and staging requirements for equipment.
Skill in the applicable natural resources area of specialty.
Skill in project management.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Conservation Technician Supervisor requires:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of supervision.
Knowledge of project planning and design.
Knowledge of estimating time, materials, and costs.
Ability to monitor workflow and adjust priorities.
Ability to lead and motivate others.

In addition to the above knowledge, skills and abilities, the Conservation Technician Manager requires:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of management.
Skill in staff supervision.
Skill in estimating time, materials and costs.
Skill in interpreting blueprints and schematics.
Skill in program/project planning and design.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Conservation Technician III
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

Department of Agriculture:

Three years experience in operating and maintaining light and heavy farming, construction equipment and hand power tools.
Six months experience in forest fire prevention and control.
Six months experience in prioritizing, assigning and reviewing the work of others.
Knowledge of performing work in a variety of trades fields such as plumbing, carpentry, painting or HVAC.
Possession of a Delaware commercial pesticide applicator’s certification card with Forestry and Turf/Ornamental classifications.
Possession of a valid CDL Class A Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Department of Health and Social Services:

Three years experience in operating and maintaining motor vehicles, landscaping and groundskeeping equipment and hand tools.
Six months experience in plant life, horticulture or arboriculture such as plant growth, pest or disease control, groundskeeping or landscaping.
Knowledge of staff supervision acquired through course work, academic training, training provided through an employer, or performing as a lead worker overseeing the work of others; OR supervising staff which may include planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others; OR supervising through subordinate supervisors a group of professional, technical, and clerical employees.

Office of Management and Budget, Department of Transportation, Department of State:

Two years' experience in operating and maintaining motor vehicles, landscaping and groundskeeping equipment and hand tools.
One year of experience in plant life, horticulture or arboriculture such as plant growth, pest or disease control, groundskeeping or landscaping.
Six months' experience in inventory control which includes ordering, receiving, tracking, storing and handling inventory; disbursing materials, supplies and equipment.
Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control: Coastal Operations:

Three years experience in operating hand power tools and land-based and/or marine-based construction equipment used for grading, excavating, pumping, or dredging.
Six months experience in operating and maintaining small motor marine vessels, canoes and kayaks.
Six months experience in performing a variety of groundskeeping, mechanical, and building maintenance trades work.
Six months experience in land stewardship, plant life, pest or disease control, invasive species identification and management.
Six months experience in recordkeeping.
Knowledge of prioritizing, assigning and reviewing the work of others.
Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control: Field Operations:

Six months experience in operating hand power tools and land-based and/or marine-based construction equipment used for grading, excavating, pumping, or dredging.
Six months experience in routine maintenance of land and marine construction equipment, light trucks and vessels.
Six months experience in waterway management operations such as macro-algae harvesting, navigational channel marking and/or abandon vessel/derelict structure removal.
Six months experience in site construction standards and methods to support land and marine activities.
Knowledge of prioritizing, assigning and reviewing the work of others.
Possession of a valid CDL Class A OR B Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control: Division of Parks:

Three years experience in operating and maintaining motor vehicles, landscaping and groundskeeping equipment and hand tools.
Six months experience in performing a variety of groundskeeping, mechanical, and building maintenance trades work.
Knowledge of staff supervision acquired through course work, academic training, training provided through an employer, or performing as a lead worker overseeing the work of others; OR supervising staff which may include planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others; OR supervising through subordinate supervisors a group of professional, technical, and clerical employees.
Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control: Regional Operations:

Two years experience in operating and maintaining equipment such as farming equipment, construction equipment, trucks, boats, or small motor equipment.
Two years experience in maintenance trades such as grounds keeping, mechanical, building, or general carpentry.
Six months experience in land management activities such as land stewardship, farming practices, invasive species identification and control, herbicide applications, or prescribed burning.
Six months experience in record keeping.
Knowledge of prioritizing, assigning and reviewing the work of others.
Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).


CLASS: MGCA01	EST: 7/1/1999	REV: 6/29/2025	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 22301

CLASS: MGCA02	EST: 7/1/1999	REV: 6/29/2025	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 22302

CLASS: MGCA03	EST: 7/1/1999	REV: 6/29/2025	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 22303

CLASS: MGCA04	EST: 7/1/1999	REV: 6/29/2025	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 22304

CLASS: MGCA05	EST: 7/1/1999	REV: 6/29/2025	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 22305

CLASS: MGCA06	EST: 7/1/1999	REV: 6/29/2025	FORMERLY JOB CLASS: 22306