Remote Climate-Smart Ag Tech Specialist (VA)

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); Remote; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech leads a climate-smart agriculture initiative funded by USDA-NRCS, spanning VA and across four states. The Technical Specialist will train partners to use COMET-Planner, COMET-Farm, and Fieldprint Calculator, while supporting farmers via technical coaching and data management.

This is a full-time, remote-within-Virginia role with travel to rural sites as needed. The position reports to the Project Director, requires a Bachelor’s in Agronomy or related field, and offers a competitive

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop Science, Environmental Science, or closely related field with relevant experience.
• Knowledge of NRCS conservation practices and their application in agricultural systems.
• Knowledge of crop and/or livestock production systems and conservation practices and their effects on soil health / emissions.
• Experience providing technical assistance, training, or educational support.
• Experience collecting, organizing, reviewing, and reporting data.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn new software.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain records.

Responsibilities

• Support 2026 state-wide Virginia application and livestock/cover crop subpilots.
• Provide training and technical support for Alliance partners in using COMET tools.
• Serve as primary contact for USDA-NRCS Conservation Practices inquiries from partners.
• Assist in data collection, reporting, and program evaluation.

Skills

Agronomy knowledge

NRCS conservation practices

Data collection & reporting

Training & technical support

Microsoft Office proficiency

Independent work & time management

Communication & interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

COMET-Planner

COMET-Farm

Fieldprint Calculator

Job description

Virginia Tech leads a climate-smart agriculture initiative funded by USDA-NRCS, spanning VA and across four states. The Technical Specialist will train partners to use COMET-Planner, COMET-Farm, and Fieldprint Calculator, while supporting farmers via technical coaching and data management.

This is a full-time, remote-within-Virginia role with travel to rural sites as needed. The position reports to the Project Director, requires a Bachelor’s in Agronomy or related field, and offers a competitive