Conservation Equipment Specialist

The University of Vermont seeks a Conservation Equipment Specialist to support community outreach and educational programs focused on farm management and natural resource conservation. Responsibilities include developing and implementing educational programs, providing technical assistance to farmers, and managing conservation equipment. A bachelor's degree and related experience in agriculture are required. The position involves outdoor work primarily in the Champlain Valley and occasionally other areas of Vermont.
Conservation Equipment Specialist

Diversity Statement

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the institution. Applicants are encouraged to include in their cover letter information about how they will further this goal.

Posting Summary

Work collaboratively to facilitate primarily externally focused community services, programs, and educational projects to influence, define, and support University outreach goals. This individual will function as a member of the University of Vermont Extension as part of the Champlain Valley Crop Soils and Pasture Team to conduct an integrated and comprehensive educational and outreach assistance program in the areas of farm management, agronomic field crop production and natural resource conservation practices to promote improved farm viability and surface water quality. Primary duties will be carried out in the Champlain Valley and occasionally other areas of Vermont, as needed. Major responsibilities include developing, planning, implementing, and evaluating outreach education and technical assistance programs provided to the local farming community in the area of livestock, crop, soil, manure, and nutrient management and implementation of approved Best Management Practices to reduce soil and nutrient losses into waters of the state. This position is also responsible for education and demonstration related to the use of conservation equipment such as (but not limited to) no-till planters, no-till pasture drills, aerators, subsoilers, and manure spreaders. Carry out support and implementation duties on grants related to improved agricultural practices and water quality. Provide support for the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition. While this is a collaborative position, it functions independently, often balancing the needs and objectives of multiple projects with varying deliverables

Minimum Qualifications (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Bachelor's degree in a related or specialized field and two years' related experience required as related to agriculture in livestock, soils, crop, and nutrient management and conservation BMP practices required. Knowledge of environmental issues, effective human relation and communication skills necessary to work with farmers. Effective writing skills and proficient in the use of computers and other electronic technologies including but not limited to mobile applications, GIS / GPS , and risk management tools. Goal setting, data collection and progress reporting skills. In depth knowledge about operation and maintenance of farming equipment and the ability to train farmers in proper operation of equipment is needed. Also knowledge of hand tools such as soil probes and penetrometers is essential.

Desirable Qualifications

Certified crop advisor status is desirable as is a working knowledge of NRCS , VAAFM , VACD , UVM Extension, and NGO watershed group programming and funding mechanisms. The ability to manage multiple projects with a wide range of people in a very dynamic working environment.

Anticipated Pay Range

$46,000 to $52,000

Other Information

This is an Extension/outreach position that will require working in outdoor settings, sometimes under adverse weather conditions. The job may occasionally require working on weekends or evenings.

Special Conditions

Position located in different city, Bargaining unit position, A probationary period may be required, Contingent on continued funding, Occasional evening and/or weekends required (if non-exempt position, may result in overtime), This position is ineligible for telework due to the essential functions, Background Check required for this position