Soil Health & Biochar Specialist - Maine

The Soil Health & Biochar Specialist at American Farmland Trust will focus on farmer education, outreach, and research in New England, particularly in Maine. Responsibilities include managing on-farm trials, collaborating with farmers and partners, and supporting soil health initiatives. Candidates should have a degree in a related field and experience in soil health or sustainable agriculture. The position requires travel and fieldwork.
Please review the How to Apply section for application instructions.Who We Are
American Farmland Trust is a national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 6.5 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and helped thousands of farm families make a go of it.We believe diversity drives innovation. We are inclusive. We embrace differences. We recognize and respect the fundamental value and dignity of all our employees.What You Will Do
As an integral part of our New England Climate and Agriculture team, the Soil Health & Biochar Specialist will work primarily to implement farmer-focused education, outreach and research collaborations across New England. This position will lead in developing, coordinating and implementing a network of on-farm biochar demonstration trials with farmers and partners in Maine, collaborating with national biochar networks, and supporting other initiatives within the New England and national Climate and Soil Health program portfolios.This position is a good fit for someone who is passionate about soil science and crafting practical resources with and for farmers. The scope of work includes soil sampling, event planning, communications, on-farm experimental trial design, soil health data analysis, and facilitating farmer-to-farmer exchanges.Specific ResponsibilitiesGather and effectively manage on-farm trial data, including farmer management data, soil samples and in-field soil health assessments;Lead outreach and communication with farmers and research partners to design, implement and support on-farm soil health research trials in Maine;Build collaborative relationships and connect partners in Maine with AFT’s regional and national resources, programs and opportunities;Plan, develop, and deliver multi-stakeholder farmer-focused outreach and educational events;Provide expertise in New England regarding soil health, carbon sequestration, soil contaminants and opportunities for farmers;Represent AFT at public meetings, field days, and educational events in the region;Support a strong team culture among AFT staff and with partners.Qualifications of the Ideal Candidate
Technical qualifications include a degree in plant or soil sciences, agronomy, environmental science, or related field and 4+ years’ of experience in applied research or outreach relating to soil health, sustainable agriculture, conservation, agroecology, regenerative agriculture, climate change, ecology, water quality, or environmental analysis.Project management and collaboration qualifications include demonstrated project management skills, organizational skills, and experience working in diverse teams. Ability to communicate effectively with racially and ethnically diverse farming communities is essential.Working Conditions
This position involves travel to events and field work on farms, with physical requirements specific to the performance of the job.Compensation
The salary range for this position is from $65,000 to $75,000 based upon experience.Why you should apply:
Be a part of a purpose-driven, committed, knowledgeable, high-performing team with a cause and mission you can be proud of. Competitive compensation & benefits, remote work opportunities, and flexible scheduling are included.Timeline
Applications must include a resume AND cover letter to be considered. Applications will be accepted until the role is filled.#J-18808-Ljbffr