Research Fellow: Farm Energy Efficiency & Clean Power

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Massachusetts Amherst seeks a Research Fellow in Agricultural Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy Deployment to perform on-farm energy assessments, deliver energy improvement plans, and support NRCS-funded projects across Massachusetts. The role combines fieldwork with applied research and outreach to accelerate clean energy adoption in agricultural settings.

The position emphasizes independent, self-directed work, collaboration with NRCS and CEE staff, and the development of

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant technical field.
• Ability to independently perform site energy assessments and audits.
• Excellent written and oral communication with clients and partners.
• Ability to travel statewide for farm visits.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct desk-based review, on-farm site visits, and technical energy assessments for farms across Massachusetts in accordance with NRCS requirements and accepted energy-auditing practice.
• Prepare clear, professional energy reports and energy improvement plans that identify energy efficiency, electrification, and operational improvement opportunities, including estimated energy savings, implementation considerations, and economic implications.
• Analyze farm energy use across agricultural operations and facilities such as greenhouse heating and cooling, dairy and livestock systems, irrigation systems, cold storage and refrigeration, maple sugaring operations, lighting, pumps, motors, and selected mobile equipment applications.
• Use spreadsheets, utility data, fuel-use data, site observations, and technical judgment to quantify baseline energy use and evaluate and recommend measures.
• Coordinate directly with farm clients and NRCS staff throughout the assessment and audit process, including intake, scheduling, site visits, document collection, report development, revision, and final delivery.
• Provide farm clients with practical guidance on relevant incentive and funding pathways and connect them with appropriate program contacts.
• Conduct outreach activities that support program pipeline development, including fact sheets, presentations, workshops, webinars, and field-based educational events.
• Deliver or support training for NRCS staff, partners, and agricultural audiences on farm energy topics.
• Maintain organized project records and manage multiple projects and client engagements with limited day-to-day supervision.
• Contribute to program reporting, grant support, and related activities necessary to sustain the NRCS farm energy program.
• Assess the efficacy of implemented measures, identify areas of potential improvement in program design or implementation, and present research findings.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Report writing

Project coordination

Independent fieldwork

Education

Master’s degree in a relevant technical field

Job description

University of Massachusetts Amherst seeks a Research Fellow in Agricultural Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy Deployment to perform on-farm energy assessments, deliver energy improvement plans, and support NRCS-funded projects across Massachusetts. The role combines fieldwork with applied research and outreach to accelerate clean energy adoption in agricultural settings.

The position emphasizes independent, self-directed work, collaboration with NRCS and CEE staff, and the development of