The Agriculture Projects Lead contributes scientific and technical capacity to the Agriculture Program by managing and executing conservation projects in Nebraska. They will recruit new farmers and support the existing project enrollees by aiding them in developing their work plans, providing technical assistance as farmers install practices, working with farmers to collect project data, and assisting with project field days and other outreach events coordination. They will help with the projects’ scientific activities, assisting the science team in gathering on-farm data through conversations with farmers, surveys, and/or collecting agronomic data from the fields (e.g., soil and tissue samples). They will coordinate the operational needs of the projects jointly with the Conservation Coordinator.

They will plan, lead, and execute effective strategies that aim to build relationships with farmers, farm service providers, project partners, and other relevant stakeholders in Nebraska, mainly focusing on those areas where we are actively working. They will also support producers by developing peer networks and messaging to amplify their success stories and create a culture of conservation among farmers. They will conduct outreach that provides accurate and relevant agronomic information about management systems, helping farmers identify their resource concerns’ needs, providing technical recommendations to implement regenerative practices effectively, and assisting farmers while considering and applying to cost-share programs.

Reporting to the Director of Agriculture and working closely with other Agriculture Program team members, they will provide unique insight into farmers’ concerns and interests, identifying opportunities to develop future agricultural projects and recognizing potential solutions to address the implementation challenges.

The Agriculture Projects Lead will represent TNC and its work in local workshops, conferences, and field days to convey the importance of regenerative practices to water quality, greenhouse gas mitigation, and agricultural productivity. They will also collaborate with TNC colleagues in the Nebraska chapter and across the Great Plains and North America Divisions to further develop ag strategies and programming.

The Agriculture Projects Lead works with their supervisor to identify and participate in the multiple professional development opportunities. The Nature Conservancy offers. The Nebraska Operating Unit also encourages all staff, including the Agriculture Projects Lead to participate in chapter activities, including serving on committees such as the Operating Unit’s Culture Club or one of the Nature Conservancy-wide Employee Resource Groups.

The Agriculture Projects Lead will be required to reside in the Central Nebraska region; this is a remote position and will require up to 80% local travel, a valid driver’s license, and compliance with The Nature Conservancy’s auto safety program.

Responsibilities and Scope:

• Supervises no staff but may oversee and direct the work of partners, office volunteers, or interns.
• Coordinates multiple tasks or projects in a timely manner and with attention to detail.
• Gain cooperation from outside parties to accomplish program goals.
• Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, and assisting with budget development.
• Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
• Under minimal supervision, makes independent decisions based on analysis, experience, and context.
• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Makes day-to-day decisions as delegated by the supervisor.
• Demonstrates sensitivity in handling confidential information.