Field to Market Seeks Science & Research Manager

Field to Market produces reports that track the sustainability performance of agriculture over time, as well as develops resources and tools for farmers to evaluate their own field and farm level environmental performance and to identify opportunities for improvements through diverse partnerships with public and private sector organizations.  

The scope of science covered by the program is broad and includes research and development of tools to measure land use efficiency, irrigation water use efficiency, energy use efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, soil erosion, soil carbon, water quality and biodiversity. This position presents a unique opportunity for practical application of scientific knowledge and communication of science to a wide community of users, including farmers and supply chain companies.

The Science and Research Manager will conduct research on multiple dimensions of agricultural systems, including simulation models of crop and soil systems; research on agronomic practice adoption; quantitative analysis using information from statistical data resources and other monitoring technologies; synthesis of literature and resources related to environmental impacts; and data analysis of information collected through the Fieldprint® Platform. The position will support ongoing activities related to metrics development; the periodic production of the National Indicators Report; development of national, state and local benchmarks of sustainability indicators; and other research tasks as assigned. The incumbent will also contribute as a facilitator in multi-stakeholder discussions and effectively communicate scientific concepts to a diverse audience.

The position reports to the Vice President, Science & Research at Field to Market.

Research tasks within Field to Market are guided by program users and member organizations through our multi-stakeholder Metrics Committee, and are informed by our Science Advisory Council with additional collaboration from university members of Field to Market and other academic collaborators.

Specific duties for this position will include:

• Research to identify and process data resources related to commodity crops and environmental indicators in Field to Market programs;
• Agronomic research to help extend the program to represent additional crops and refine sustainability metrics, benchmarks and indicators;
• Literature review and analysis on diverse science topics to inform stakeholder decision-making;
• Facilitation of multi-stakeholder discussions and coordination of scientific research efforts related to metric and program development.
• Analysis and synthesis of field level results from the Fieldprint Platform and environmental models for program development and reporting against goals;
• Reporting of findings in appropriate scientific forums, including presentations, posters, and contributions to scientific reports and journal articles;

Qualifications

Field to Market is a dynamic, ambitious and fast-moving organization; employees must be flexible, inquisitive, self-motivated and committed to our common objective of a more sustainable agricultural system in the U.S.

• Bachelor’s degree required (advanced degree preferred) in agronomy, soil science, geography, engineering, or a related field and 5 or more years of demonstrated professional experience with environmental modeling and/or agronomic data analysis is required.
• Experience using data analysis software (Excel/Access) and/or programming (R, Python, other languages) is required. Experience with geographic information systems is desired.
• Experience working with stakeholders and/or facilitating and managing inter-disciplinary research projects is desired.
• Applicants must be fluent in English, have strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Applicants must be able to prioritize, establish, and meet deadlines while handling multiple tasks.

• Willingness to undertake up to 15% business travel.
• This position offers a hybrid work environment and flexible schedule, balancing remote work with in-person collaboration following the Alliance’s return to Washington, DC office in 2022.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter that explains your interest in the position and a resume to careers@fieldtomarket.org no later than December 1, 2021. Use the subject line “Science and Research Manager.” One combined PDF file is preferred. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Field to Market offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental and vision insurance, 401k match and generous paid leave. Please note applicants must have authorization to work in the United States.

Commitment to Equal Employment
Field to Market is an equal opportunity employer committed to the fair and equal treatment of all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, age, national origin, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation and training. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, collaborative and sustainable work environment for all employees.