Farmer Technical Assistance Manager

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

Founded in 1998, Iowa Valley RC&D’s influence is grounded in community, partnerships, and collaboration as we inspire transformative change and lead in the development of farmers and food value chains toward a more collaborative, equitable, and resilient food system across Iowa’s communities.

Iowa Valley envisions a food system that is characterized by a vibrant ecosystem of farms, businesses, and the natural environment where thriving rural and urban communities are interconnected and sustained and all individuals are nourished.

DESCRIPTION

The Farmer Technical Assistance Manager at Iowa Valley Resource Conservation & Development (IVRCD), will support implementation of various programs within the IVRCD Farmer Development Department (FDD) aimed at building capacity to support small and medium-sized producers, including but not limited to improving access to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for producers who manage vegetable, fruit, and small livestock operations, as well as independent livestock farms and organic or pasture-based enterprises. 

Goals of the Role Include:

• Building trusted relationships with historically underserved and/or small to mid-sized, diversified family farmers, and creating pathways for them to take advantage of conservation programs.

• Build relationships with organizations and community partners needed to develop strong outreach to support a wide range of producers in their conservation needs. 

• Providing wrap around coaching and mentorship to beginning and experienced farmers to help develop and implement sustainable land management infrastructure and practices on their farm. 

• Provide technical assistance to Iowa farmers to assist them in applying and developing EQIP and CSP program applications. 

• Creating opportunities for sustainable agriculture to be a critical part of building the resilience of farms and ranches and providing numerous environmental and community co-benefits. 

• Developing  a “next generation” of farmers who engage in USDA conservation programs such as EQIP and CSP. 

• Oversee conservation and sustainable agriculture trials and demonstrations at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm and conduct outreach to Iowa farmers on the trials and demonstrations. 
  

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS

• Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school

• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with a diverse set of organizations and people

• Possess an interest in and ability to work with a wide range of farmers. Having experience communicating with farmers and knowledge of government programs is preferred (but not required). 

• Clear, precise, compassionate, nonjudgmental communication and active listening skills.

• Very strong written and verbal communication skills, and attention to detail. 

• Reliable transportation and driver’s license (mileage is reimbursed) 

• Willingness to work hours necessary for project success, including potential early mornings, nights or weekends.

• Proficient in computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Google docs. 

• Demonstrated ability to successfully execute projects with minimal support or oversight, including setting goals and developing a realistic work plan. Ability to be a self-starter. 

• Strong work ethic

• Knowledge of regional food systems and regenerative agriculture concepts is desirable

• Experience living and working in a rural environment, and/or working with small farmers is desirable

COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE

Diversity brings strength, creativity, and resilience. Iowa Valley believes that one of our key roles is creating meaningful opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and people of color to engage in their communities. We seek to empower marginalized people to become future leaders in a just, equitable community. Iowa Valley RC&D is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community. There is no tolerance for discrimination or harassment of any kind in our organization. 

Iowa Valley RC&D is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, especially those who have been marginalized by society due to race, color, religion, gender, gender nonconformity, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Iowa Valley RC&D will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with Iowa Valley RC&D.

COMPENSATION
$26/hour 

This is a full-time position and eligible for benefits that include health, dental, vision, PTO, cell phone stipend, 401K, etc. This position is located in the Iowa Valley RC&D office in Amana part time as well as remote. Travel is required. Must possess and maintain a valid Iowa Driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.

TO APPLY

To apply for the position, send a resume, cover letter, and references that outline the following to Emmaly Renshaw at emmaly@ivrcd.org

• Your motivation to apply for this position

• Your past experiences that will help you succeed in this role

Interviews will be conducted with qualified applicants on a rolling basis after April 5th and will continue until the position is filled.

Click here to see the formal job description for this position.