Job Type
Full-time
Description
- Act as the primary community-based liaison between NRCS and urban/small farm producers (both groups and individuals) and their supporting organizations.
- Master and convey details of USDA conservation programs offered through NRCS, aiding urban/small farm producers in program comprehension.
- Collaborate closely with urban producers and NRCS staff statewide to enhance urban and small farm initiatives, facilitating conservation planning and funding delivery.
- Serve as the central community-based point of contact for NRCS regarding urban agriculture within specific state and local government entities.
- Address inquiries from NRCS and partner staff related to urban and small farm agriculture.
- Research and maintain information pertaining to resources accessible to urban/small farm producers through NRCS.
- Engage with state urban and small farm agricultural communities by participating in relevant workshops, webinars, conferences, etc.
- Foster connections between NRCS conservation planning staff and urban/small farm producers to ensure comprehensive service delivery.
- Contribute to the development and management of documents and materials that simplify the process for urban/small farm producers to access specific farm bill programs and sustain long-term engagement.
- Minimum of 4 years of practical experience in urban agriculture, community development, and food systems.
- Strong urban agriculture background, either as an urban farmer or in a role working with urban producers to enhance their operations, production practices, and resource access.
- Demonstrated experience with community-based organizations supporting urban producers, small farmers, and their communities.
- Proficiency in assisting agricultural producers, particularly historically underserved individuals, in enhancing land, soil, and ecosystem stewardship.
- In-depth understanding of environmental, social, and economic challenges faced by various urban and small farmer populations and communities.
- Cultural competency to foster trust, build common understanding, and identify shared interests among diverse stakeholders.
- Track record of providing technical assistance and facilitating peer support for farmers, landowners, and producer/community groups, especially in urban and peri-urban settings.
- Familiarity with or a willingness to learn about federal and state policies and programs supporting urban agriculture, farming, and natural resource conservation.
- Bilingual skills are advantageous.
- Must be based in the Kansas City, Missouri area.
- Bachelor’s degree in plant or soil sciences, agronomy, environmental science, or related field and 4 + years of practical experience in urban agriculture, farming, food systems, and community development. A Masters’ degree in a related field may be substituted for up to 2 years of experience.
- Possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Where necessary, mileage reimbursement will be provided.
- Expected travel is 15% of the time.
- Obtain and maintain a security clearance from USDA-NRCS. NRCS will assist with obtaining this security clearance.
- Completion of a federal background check during the initial months of employment is required for this role. Continued employment is contingent on successful completion of this background check.
- Medical & Prescription Coverage
- Dental Coverage
- Vision Coverage
- Company Paid Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability (LTD)
- Voluntary Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Healthcare & Dependent Care
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- 401(k) with 10% match after six months of employment
- Sick Leave: Regular full-time employees accrue 3.5 hours per pay period (13 “sick days” per year).
- Vacation Leave: Accrue 15 days during the first year increasing by one day per year to 20 days per year
- Holidays: The Company observes eleven holidays during the year (all offices closed): plus, choice of 3 other floating holidays depending on hiring date
Salary Description
$62,000 - $67,000