EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM MANAGER (Regenerative Grazing Program Manager)

Department of Plant Science & Technology

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.

30-hour work week, schedule negotiable

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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