The Soil Health Institute (SHI), a non-profit organization created to safeguard and enhance the vitality and productivity of soil, seeks a field research associate to maintain relationships with farmers and ranchers, record management data, and provide technical agronomic advising. This job is part of a multi-state experiment evaluating the effects of regenerative practices on soil health in paired producer fields.

This position will report to Daniel Liptzin, research soil scientist, and work with Michael Cope, data architect. This is a 1-year fixed appointment with the possibility of extension based on funding, performance, and interest.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain positive relationships with the forward-thinking producers who are testing innovative practices in row crop and grazing systems
• Provide technical assistance to ensure that the project participants are implementing the management of their experimental fields with and without soil health practices
• Collect management data in the designated format

Qualifications
We value diverse perspectives and recognize that each applicant for this role will bring unique skills, knowledge, and lived experience. Candidates who meet the criteria below are encouraged to apply.

Education:

A degree in soil science, agronomy, animal science, or a related discipline in agriculture or natural resources. Candidates with B.S. to M.S. encouraged to apply; we are looking for the right person

Experience:

• Building and sustaining positive relationships with producers in person and by phone/email/text and communicating with them about their management decisions and equipment
• Comprehensive understanding of row crop production practices and cattle grazing management in the region encompassed by the study: AL, AZ, CO, IN, IA, KS, MO, OH, OK, SD, TX, and WI
• Familiarity with soil health principles and the implementation of soil health practices

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail with solid organizational and prioritization skills while working independently
• Understanding of soil science principles and methodologies
• Experience with soil data QA/QC and data analyses
• Experience with GIS and remote sensing tools
• Knowledge of or ability to learn farming software (eg. MaiaGrazing, AgriWebb, MJD, Climate, Agfiniti, SMS)
• A valid driver’s license
• Current authorization to work for any employer in the United States.