Press Releases

Field to Market Seeks Science & Research Director

November 14, 2014

Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture seeks a Science and Research Director based in its office in Washington, DC. Field to Market is a 501(c)(3) organization that brings together a diverse alliance of grower groups; agribusiness companies; food, fiber, restaurant and retail companies; conservation groups; universities and public sector partners to focus on promoting, defining and measuring the sustainability of row crops for food, fiber and fuel production.

Position Summary

The Science and Research Director is responsible for providing the primary staff technical oversight for Field to Market and helping to forge consensus on best science and practical application among more than sixty member organizations from across the food and ag supply chain.

The position will oversee the development/revision of metrics and benchmarks for Field to Market’s agriculture sustainability program, establishment of measurable and achievable goals, and drafting of educational materials and national reports.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background and understanding of agronomy and agricultural sustainability. Critical skillsets include- expert knowledge of soil and water conservation; greenhouse gas accounting; a knowledge of the trends, tools and strategies related to agricultural sustainability; strong communication and interpersonal skills; detail oriented; an ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines; and a desire and enthusiasm for continuous learning and professional development.

The position reports to the president of Field to Market.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Lead Field to Market in formulating and implementing their strategic technical vision:

  • Primary contributor/author for Field to Market’s National Environmental Indicators Report.
  • Oversee Field to Market’s sustainability metrics development and revision efforts, including facilitation of a multi-stakeholder process to achieve scientific consensus.
  • Work with Field to Market members and outside consultants to develop state and regional benchmarks for key sustainability indicators (e.g. land use, soil erosion, soil health, energy use, greenhouse gases, water use, water quality, biodiversity).
  • Assist with development of sustainability curriculum for growers, crop consultants, and other farmer-facing audiences.
  • Coordinate with USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service on environmental modeling and data needs for Field to Market’s program.
  • Provide leadership, coordination and technical expertise in metrics alignment with other sustainability programs.
  • Collaborate with partner universities and researchers to assess and integrate measurable and achievable sustainability goals for the organization.
  • Interface with Field to Market’s third-party software developers. Coordinate integration of metrics and algorithms in sanctioned tools.
  • Extraordinary presentation skills, a great attitude, energy and enthusiasm to represent Field to Market at relevant conferences and events throughout the year.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

  • A Master’s degree in agronomy, agricultural engineering, agricultural economics, crop/soil science, agricultural sustainability or related field.
  • Established Track Record: A minimum of 5-7 years of proven experience in agronomy, agricultural economics, or in fields related to agricultural sustainability and food/fiber supply chains.
  • Excellent communication skills (writing/editing, speaking, facilitating).
  • Technical writing samples may be requested.
  • Successful experience in working with a membership-driven organization preferred.
  • Ability to prioritize, establish and meet deadlines and handle multiple priorities.
  • Ability to work effectively and as a team in a small office environment.
  • Must have strong command of the English language.
  • Travel required for this position is extensive. At times travel may be expected on short notice. Travel and other work related assignments may include weekends.

Leadership Requirements

  • Decisive
  • Trusted
  • Results-Oriented
  • Communicative
  • Team-Oriented
  • Technical vision
  • Innovative & Technically Sound

Critical Success Factors & Key Challenges

  • Ability to coordinate multi-stakeholder teams and build successful interactions.
  • Strong agronomy and agricultural sustainability across a range of crops.
    Providing technical expertise and leadership.
  • Working with scientists on technical teams to achieve project/product goals.
  • Providing day-to-day guidance for Field to Market technical consultants.
  • Assist in the development of Field to Market’s Technical Strategy & Implementation (Planning, Organizing & Management)
  • Performing all tasks and behaving in a manner compliant with Field to Market’s mission.
  • Demonstrated ability to foster change in a dynamic space.

To apply

Please submit a cover letter that explains your interest in the position and a resume to bbrumbaugh@keystone.orgno later than December 9, 2014. Salary is commensurate with experience. Health insurance and other benefits included.

ABOUT FIELD TO MARKET

Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture® brings together a diverse group of grower organizations; agribusinesses; food, feed, beverage, restaurant, and retail companies; conservation groups; universities and public sector partners to focus on defining, measuring, and advancing the sustainability of food, feed, fiber, and fuel production. Field to Market comprises around 200 members representing all facets of the U.S. agricultural supply chain, with members employing more than 5 million people and representing combined revenues totaling over $1.5 trillion. 

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