EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM MANAGER (Regenerative Grazing Program Manager)

Hiring Department

Department of Plant Science & Technology

Job Description

Catalyze and coordinate new initiatives on regenerative grazing including $5 million in new regenerative grazing incentive programs. Additional funding will support silvopasture and cover crop grazing incentives and improve marketing opportunities related to livestock produced with regenerative grazing methods. The person in this position will be part of a highly collaborative team of both Center for Regenerative Agriculture staff (www.cra.missouri.edu) and other cooperators from the University of Missouri and partner organizations. The position is part of the $25 million Missouri Climate-Resilient Crop and Livestock (CRCL) Project, funded with a five-year climate-smart grant from USDA-NRCS.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing and implementing $5 million in incentive funds for regenerative grazing practices on approximately 100,000 acres in Missouri.
• Developing and leading a regenerative grazing educational program for producers that could take the form of workshops with pasture walks and/or other approaches.
• Coordinating creation of educational materials including print materials and contracting for video development on various aspects of regenerative grazing.
• Advising ranchers, diversified farmers, landowners, and farm advisors on steps to improve biodiversity and regenerative aspects of grazing systems contributing to soil health and improved climate-resiliency.
• Collaborating with other project staff on cover crop grazing and silvopasture strategies.
• Interfacing with MDC and NRCS personnel involved with the Missouri Native Forages Initiative.
• Providing input on grazing practices for small and underserved farmers involved with diversified “Climate-smart fieldscapes.”
• Strategizing with project marketing staff on expanding opportunities for regeneratively grazed beef and other livestock products.
• In addition to the helping lead efforts with the Missouri CRCL project, contribute on regional and national efforts with regenerative grazing and regenerative food systems.
• As with all positions, involvement with other duties and responsibilities may be expected in order to support the mission and purpose of the University of Missouri.

Shift

30-hour work week, schedule negotiable

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 5 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in grazing management, forages, plant sciences, rangeland management, or animal science.
Candidates will be evaluated on: Relevant educational background and degree. Demonstrated knowledge of regenerative grazing strategies, particularly for beef cattle but also for other livestock. Comprehensive knowledge of how grazing management, biodiversity, and soil health are interconnected and impact agroecosystems. Effective communication skills, including preparing written educational materials and verbal communication skills relevant to one-on-one consultations with producers/landowners and periodic presentations at pasture tours and workshops. Strong organizational skills and ability to work as a self-starter. Ability to provide management recommendations to a variety of audiences. Experience in working with a variety of grazing systems and production environments, including restoration of degraded landscapes. Familiarity with a systems approach to improving food systems and land management.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range:$67,746-$78,000 salary commensurate on experience

Grade: GGS-012

University Title: Educational Program Manager

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

MU Application, Cover Letter, CV/Resume, and contact information for references will be required for hire.

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 .

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

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