Soil Health Planner

Day-to-day responsibilities of this position: The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is seeking a soil health and nutrient management planner to preserve, improve, and protect Utah agriculture by working with farmers, ranchers, landowners, and partner agencies. This individual will provide technical assistance to agricultural producers and develop plans for a wide variety of conservation practices, including but not limited to, nutrient management planning, soil health practices, integrated pest management, and irrigation water management. This position will work in close collaboration with other partner agencies such as USDA-NRCS, Utah Division of Water Quality, local soil and water conservation districts, and local watershed groups on joint projects and other shared efforts. Principal Duties Build relationships with landowners, partners, and other agencies to promote conservation of soil, water, air, and other natural resources. Perform resource inventories, in-field soil health assessments, and site visits with local agricultural producers. Develop holistic conservation plans for landowners focused on nutrient management, soil health, integrated pest management, irrigation water management, and other related conservation practices. Provide technical assistance to landowners and partners on soil health principles, nutrient management planning, conservation practices, and resource management Plan and perform outreach and educational activities related to conservation for agricultural producers, landowners, and conservation professionals. Collaborate with partner agencies such as the USDA-NRCS, Utah Division of Water Quality, local soil and water conservation districts, Utah State University, local watershed organizations, and other organizations on joint projects or events. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate will possess the following skills: Self-driven with a high level of motivation and ability to work independently. A working knowledge of the five soil health principles and four principles of nutrient management. A background in agriculture or working with agricultural producers. Able to clearly communicate ideas both verbally and in writing. Ability to work collaboratively in a team Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems Example of Duties Write and review grants, contracts, and agreements for conservation programs Coordinate soil and water conservation efforts with other agencies and groups by attending meetings, giving presentations, and providing technical assistance. Collecting information through in-field soil health assessments, site visits, and other project monitoring efforts. Develop recommendations and conservation plans for landowners and manage project implementation. Present at educational events and field days on nutrient management, soil health, and other conservation principles to landowners and other professionals.