Vacancy expired!
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT (June 11, 2021): First-round interview applications due by July 9, 2021.
Agricultural Technical Specialist (Bilingual)
Half to Full-time
This position will work in close partnership with the RCD Soil Scientist and Civil Engineer as well as local organizational and agricultural partners to implement on-farm irrigation evaluations, nutrient management, erosion control and water quality improvement projects in Monterey County. The ideal candidate is a well-rounded agricultural scientist or engineer with solid data management and analysis skills and several years working experience, including field work with farmers in Spanish and English. The successful candidate must have knowledge of agricultural systems, plant science and project management, and be a fluent speaker of Spanish and English. Candidates also should be comfortable speaking in public and capable of organizing and giving educational and professional presentations and reports.
Primary Responsibilities:
Provide in-field technical assistance and trainings for farmers and farm workers in Spanish and English regarding soil, water and nutrient management (one-on-one and groups).
Collaborate with area farmers and partner organizations for soil, water and nutrient management project development, design, implementation & effectiveness monitoring.
Serve as a technical expert in meetings with regional stakeholder groups focused on water quality.
Contribute to grant research and development
Manage grants involving multiple subcontractors and timelines
Collaborative Tasks with Soil Scientist & Civil Engineer:
Installation of water measurement equipment, including flow meters, pressure gauges, and flumes
Irrigation evaluation using standard professional methods
Communication with growers regarding irrigation and field activity timing
Collection, maintenance, and handling of water and soil samples and sampling equipment
Data collection and analysis
Requirements:
Knowledge of and interest in agricultural water use efficiency and surface and groundwater management issues in the Central Coast region
Understanding of California agricultural systems and hydrology, including crops, irrigation systems and design, and resource concerns; training in agricultural/environmental science or engineering (MS preferred). Relevant degrees may include Agricultural Engineering, Plant pathology, Crop Sciences, Agronomy, or Hydrology
Licensed as Certified Crop Advisor or Pest Control Advisor (current or eligible within 6 months)
Field Spanish-fluency and experience working within the Latinx farming community
Good writing and presentation and ‘people’ skills
Excellent computer skills (for MS Excel, Word, internet applications and learning proprietary software)
Able to hop ditches, carry equipment, and work outdoors for extended periods
Valid CA driver’s license, clean driving record
Compensation:
Starting hourly rate $25-$36/hr depending on experience and skills (parallel to USDA locality pay for GS 7-10). Full benefits including health, dental and vision plans and SimpleIRA program with employer contribution. Professional team of co-workers in strong collaborative office environment with a highly regarded organization dedicated to supporting local landowners’ voluntary conservation efforts. The RCD of Monterey County is an equal opportunity employer, and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Hiring decisions are made based on candidates’ qualifications without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, genetics, or veteran, parental, or disability status.
To apply:
Send cover letter, resume, and references. For more information, call 831-975-7757.
