Farmer-Led Watershed Conservation Specialist

Conservation Maven; Seattle (WA); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental Coverage

Vision Coverage

401k Plan

Vacation & Holidays

Job summary

American Farmland Trust seeks an Illinois Agricultural and Conservation Technical Specialist to support soil health and water quality programming across the Midwest, with emphasis in Southeast Illinois. The role collaborates with farmers, landowners and agencies to design and implement conservation practices and watershed initiatives.

You will gather field data, prepare technical documents, and help coordinate cross-team activities while engaging diverse partners and delivering measurable

Qualifications

• Entrepreneurial, self-starter with ability to work independently and in a team.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree may substitute for 1 year of experience.
• Experience with NRCS planning process and watershed programs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance to farmers and landowners on conservation practices per NRCS standards.
• Develop and launch farmer-led watershed programs with stakeholders.
• Coordinate with internal and external partners; represent AFT at meetings and events.
• Travel ~40% to engage with farmers and partners in SE Illinois.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Public outreach

Project coordination

Education

BA/BS degree

Advanced degree substitute for experience

Certified Conservation Planner

CCA certification

Tools

ArcGIS

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

American Farmland Trust seeks an Illinois Agricultural and Conservation Technical Specialist to support soil health and water quality programming across the Midwest, with emphasis in Southeast Illinois. The role collaborates with farmers, landowners and agencies to design and implement conservation practices and watershed initiatives.

You will gather field data, prepare technical documents, and help coordinate cross-team activities while engaging diverse partners and delivering measurable