Full job description and application instructions can be found at https://www.mecostacd.org/join-mcd-team

POSITION SUMMARY
The Agricultural Technician provides confidential, voluntary technical assistance to agricultural producers participating in MAEAP and RAP. Responsibilities include conducting on-farm environmental risk assessments, developing action plans, soil health management plans, assisting producers with implementing conservation practices, coordinating educational events, and connecting farmers with technical and financial resources. The technician also promotes conservation practices through outreach, workshops, field days, and community engagement while supporting the broader mission of the Mecosta Conservation District. This position is supervised by the Mecosta Conservation District Administrator, with annual program goals established in partnership with MDARD.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

● Conduct confidential on-farm environmental risk assessments for Farmstead, Cropping, Livestock, and Forest, Wetlands & Habitat Systems.
● Assist producers in developing action plans that reduce environmental risks and move farms toward MAEAP verification.
● Deliver technical guidance on the core regenerative agriculture principals.
● Provide structured, practical recommendations on conservation crop rotations, multi-species cover cropping, adaptive rotational grazing, and reduced-tillage or no-till methods.
● Help producers develop emergency management plans and implement conservation practices.
● Connect producers with available local, state, and federal conservation programs and funding opportunities.
● Collaborate with USDA-NRCS staff to help producers access Farm Bill conservation programs.
● Build relationships with agricultural producers throughout Mecosta and Montcalm Counties.
● Plan and host educational workshops, field days, demonstrations, and outreach events.
● Develop educational materials, newsletter articles, social media content, and other outreach resources promoting MAEAP, RAP, and conservation practices.
● Maintain accurate electronic records, reports, and producer files.
● Track program accomplishments and prepare monthly reports.
● Collaborate with MDARD staff, Conservation District employees, and community partners to meet program objectives.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
At the Mecosta Conservation District, we believe our employees are our greatest asset, and we offer a supportive, collaborative team environment where your work directly benefits local farmers and Michigan's natural resources. In this role, you’ll work across a diverse agricultural landscape where every day brings new farms, new challenges, and new opportunities to help producers succeed. You will also work in close partnership with USDA-NRCS, MDARD, and conservation professionals across the state. This full-time, 40-hour position provides excellent work-life balance, featuring flexible scheduling around general office hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
With approval, there is an opportunity to telework one day each week. Occasional evening and weekend work is required to support educational events and community programs. As an Agricultural Technician, your time will be divided between office and field visits across two counties, operating out of both the Mecosta Conservation District office in Big Rapids and the Montcalm Conservation District office in Stanton. The physical nature of this role requires spending time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions. Candidates must be comfortable walking across uneven terrain, entering various agricultural facilities, and working safely around livestock.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND DESIRED SKILLS

● A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Animal Science, or a closely related field OR equivalent practical experience in agriculture, conservation, or agribusiness.
● Practical experience working directly with agricultural producers and a strong working knowledge of local crop and livestock production systems.
● Familiarity with GPS mapping, soil sampling tools, or the operation of conservation agricultural equipment (such as no-till drills) is highly desirable.
● Experience delivering educational programs, technical assistance, or working with conservation practices (familiarity with CD, USDA, and MDARD programs is a plus).
● Self-motivated and comfortable building strong, trusted relationships with farmers, landowners, and agency partners.
● An effective communicator both verbally and in writing, with excellent organization and attention to detail.
● Proficient with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and comfortable learning new data systems.
● Willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and able to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.
● In possession of a valid driver’s license and able to pass a federal background check.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
This position offers a competitive starting wage of $21.00 to $24.00 per hour, depending on your qualifications and experience, with clear opportunities for future advancement based on performance, completed training, and professional certifications. Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health coverage options, 100% paid dental and vision insurance, and a retirement plan complete with an employer match. A District vehicle is available for official field visits and travel between county offices; where use of the District vehicle is not applicable, mileage will be reimbursed at the standard Federal mileage rate. Time-off benefits feature generous vacation and sick leave, longevity leave, volunteer leave, 11 paid federal holidays, and an additional 3 paid District holidays. This role is funded through a three-year grant from MDARD.
This program has been funded for decades and shows excellent potential to continue for years to come.