Conservation Field Specialist

Position Title:
Conservation Field Specialist

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experience

Special Required Qualifications
Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Sustainable Agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Science, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Soil Science, Crop Production and Physiology or a related field. Master's degree in related field strongly desired.
Experience with Midwest agriculture and conservation.
Experience communicating technical topics.  
Experience coordinating and delivering educational programs and workshops for agricultural audiences.
Experience developing content for print and digital educational materials.
Experience developing cover crop education or outreach programming and/or experience working with cover crops.
Experience with conservation practices including manure/fertilizer management and/or other in-field or edge of field practices.

Job Description:

The Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Conservation Field Specialist, which will be hired as an Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Specialist II. ANR specialists provide educational leadership in the application of knowledge, grounded in research-based science, to help Iowa and Midwest farmers and the agricultural industry prosper while protecting natural resources.   

One of the focuses of this position will be in collaboration with the Midwest Cover Crops Council (MCCC). The individual will contribute to the many activities of the MCCC, including developing and delivering Extension education programs, tools, and materials. The individual will work in collaboration with professionals from around the region to develop and deliver cover crop trainings, workshops, webinars, and other outreach events. They will write factsheets, assist with revisions to the field pocket guide, and work with state/province teams to update the on-line decision tools. All work is done in collaboration with faculty and extension professionals from multiple states/provinces, through working groups and committees. They will also assist with keeping the website up-to-date, organizing working group meetings, and organizing the annual meeting and conference.   

This position will also focus on educational programming in Iowa. The individual will develop and deliver in-person and virtual educational programming for farmers, landowners and stakeholders to increase knowledge and actions that build sustainable agricultural systems. Program topics may include manure/fertilizer management and/or other in-field or edge of field practices. They will also develop training materials and courses for ag retailers, crop consultants and agency audiences and deliver them in collaboration with other Extension and partner programs and events. This position will interact with extension teams including crops, livestock, ag engineering, natural resources, horticulture, and others to incorporate conservation topics into existing programming efforts. 

The successful candidate will possess the ability to develop a plan of work based on client needs identification; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with individuals and groups; and ability to establish partnerships with agriculture and natural resources professionals. To be successful in the position, the candidate will possess strong organizational skills and the ability to make progress on multiple projects.

This is a three-year fixed term position with the opportunity for renewal.

The primary office location for this position will be a county extension office in the state of Iowa and the location will be dependent on the successful candidate and office availability. Local and in-state travel will be required for this position.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Level Guidelines
• Intermediate-level position with solid professional and/or technical skills working under general supervision to achieve goals
• Applies broad, working knowledge of the principles of the field to moderately complex, difficult, and varied problems and issues
• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action and resolve problems
• Responds to a broad range of inquiries and requests
• May provide training and/or direction to lower-level staff
• May lead projects of moderate scope and complexity
• Provides guidance to students

Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

June 2, 2027

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade:
PS808

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: 1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae 2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485. Why Choose ISU? Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as: • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans • Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa) • Life insurance and long-term disability • Flexible Spending Accounts • Various voluntary benefits and discounts • Employee Assistance Program • Wellbeing program • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

Original Posting Date:
April 29, 2024

Posting Close Date:
May 12, 2024

Job Requisition Number:
R14559