Job can be found here: https://marbleseed.org/about/careers

Title: Organic & Small Farms Conservation Specialist
Classification: Exempt (.8-1.0 FTE)
Location: Remote; must reside in Wisconsin
Application Period: Open until filled
Report To: Conservation Director
Team: Climate & Conservation

The Organic and Small Farm Conservation Specialist works to expand access to NRCS programs to diverse audiences including small or organic farmers, ranchers, agricultural service providers, and organizational partners. The responsibilities will include direct technical support to farmers in preparing applications for NRCS cost care programs that mitigate resource concerns on their farms.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement conservation plans for natural areas and working lands
• Develop and deliver technical training and resources with a focus on organic management and conservation
• Serve as a technical resource and provide expertise to stakeholders
• Conduct field assessments to collect data on soil, water, and habitat conditions
• Collaborate with landowners, government agencies, and partner non-profit organizations
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and policies
• Analyze environmental data to identify conservation needs and priorities
• Advise on the sustainable use of natural resources and organic management of farms
• Represent Marbleseed in public forums and leadership roles
• Provide detailed reports and assessments on project progress and outcomes
• Conduct outreach to organic and transitioning, and historically underserved producers and support partner outreach efforts

Qualifications

• Three years of experience in organic agriculture, soil conservation, or a related field (e.g., agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education)
• Bachelor’s degree in soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering (additional years of experience may substitute for education)

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of NRCS programs, operations, planning process, and assessment tools
• Conservation Planning experience and proficiency with planning tools
• Excellent attention to detail and communication skills
• Experience in leading workshop facilitation, engaging with diverse audiences to convey complex information
• Excellent customer service and active listening skills
• Knowledge of USDA Organic Regulations, organic crop/livestock production, and on-farm conservation practices
• Ability to work independently, within a professional network, and as a member of a team
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal environmental regulations
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Established relationships with organic content experts and industry members
• Achieved Level 2 Conservation Planner
• Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or related field
• Proficiency in GIS and other spatial analysis tools

Travel
This position requires regional travel up to 15% time.

Compensation & Benefits
Pay is $54,000-58,000, commensurate with experience, at 1.0 FTE. Position includes benefits and flexible paid time off. The successful candidate will work remotely (computer and office equipment provided) and must reside in Wisconsin or contiguous states. A language differential of 6% may be offered for multilingual candidates.

Commitment to Equity and Representation: We believe that representation matters, and a diversity of people, perspectives, and lived experiences makes for a more enriching workplace. Within programmatic work, representation of diverse perspectives informs the creation of activities and education that strengthen farming and food systems across the Midwest. We want to add your perspective, and we strongly encourage applications from those typically underrepresented in farming and agriculture, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, and women.