Research and Engagement Field Coordinator

University of Missouri-Columbia
parental leave, paid time off
United States, Missouri, Columbia
801 Conley Avenue (Show on map)
Apr 08, 2025
Hiring Department Department of Plant Science & Technology Job Description The University of Missouri is seeking a Research and Engagement Field Coordinator to lead farmer-driven on-farm research and engagement initiatives aimed at improving agronomic and economic outcomes while advancing the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices across Missouri. This full-time (100% FTE) position, based at the Greenley Research Center, Northern Missouri Research, Extension, and Education Center in Novelty, MO, has statewide responsibilities and is fully grant-funded for a duration of up to four years. About the Role As a key part of the university's recently funded USDA Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) grant, the Community Outreach Representative will support a collaborative, multi-institutional effort to enhance the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices (CSAPs). This project, in partnership with Central State University, Ohio State University, and Lincoln University, seeks to boost carbon sequestration, improve water quality, and address other critical environmental goals. Specific CSAPs include: Multi-species cover crops Extended and diversified crop rotations Integrated crop and livestock production systems Key Responsibilities The successful candidate will: Establish and maintain a statewide Missouri on-farm research network. Recruit and support farmers conducting research on their farms, ensuring ongoing collaboration and success. Coordinate fieldwork by working closely with an interdisciplinary science team to plan and execute sampling activities. Maintain clear, transparent communication among participating farmers, university staff, and other stakeholders. Organize and facilitate annual farmer gatherings to review field results and plan for future research. Represent the project through extension outreach events and media, sharing findings and promoting sustainable practices. Ideal Candidate Profile We're looking for someone who: Possesses a strong familiarity with Missouri agriculture, including diverse farming systems and climate-smart practices. Has demonstrated experience engaging with farmers from varying backgrounds and farm types. Thrives in both independent and collaborative settings. Is enthusiastic about building connections between research and real-world agricultural practices. Shift Monday - Friday; 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in agricultural or environmental science, social science, or related field. Anticipated Hiring Range Hiring Range: $18.50 -$24.34/hour. Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements. Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line. Grade: GGS-008 University Title: EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM COORDINATOR II Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Application Materials To submit an application, please provide a cover letter explaining relevant background, experience and qualifications, a current resume or curriculum vitae. Five references will be required upon request. Initial screening of applications will occur on June 1, 2025. Benefit Eligibility This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.