Program/Project Manager I

The Project Manager will administer activities associated with a recently funded project aimed at increasing the adoption of conservation practices in wheat-based cropping systems of Kansas. The responsibilities of the project manager will primarily include working one-on-one with Certified Crop Advisors and growers to facilitate enrollment of acres in Farm Bill conservational programs, including:

1) Becoming familiar with all conservation concepts, practices, and Farm Bill programs available to foment the adoption of such practices in Kansas (e.g., EQIP, CSP, etc.). Here, the project manager should have, or be able to obtain, NRCS Technical Service Provider (TSP) certification.

2) Engaging on a one-on-one basis with targeted CCAs, KSRE county/district educators, and the KWC to identify growers to be enrolled in existing conservational programs. First, the project manager will establish the baseline conditions of their operations before program initiation through surveys and farm visits, and develop management plans. They will design and implement CSAF mitigation practices on a case-by-case basis, incorporating local input into the project design.

3) Help growers enroll in existing Farm Bill conservational programs targeted to their specific conditions.

4) Assess, throughout the continuity of the project, how the adoption of conservational practices changed the system's outcomes at the field level.

The project manager will also be expected to refine the project plans and timelines, aid with the financial management of the project's budget, and supervise staff associated with the project. Of extreme importance, the project manager should be able to track down acres that adopted conservation practices as a result of the project.

The Department of Agronomy, in collaboration with the Research and Extension Centers, provides statewide leadership for teaching, research, and extension activities in plant breeding, crop production, range science, soil science, and weed science, and contributes substantially to activities in genetics, water science, and environmental sciences.

This position is Hybrid eligible. Work is performed partially remotely and partially on employer premises or at a designated assignment location. Employee must have availability to be on campus frequently during the work week.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a bachelor's degree and three years of relevant experience. This position may use an educational equivalency as determined relevant by a hiring manager.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's in Agronomy, Horticultural and Natural Resources, or related discipline.
• Three years of experience
• Conservational practices in agricultural settings.
• Experience with NRCS and Farm Bill programs.

Additional licenses / registrations / certifications:

• Have, or be able to obtain, NRCS technical service provider (TSP) certification.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Please submit the following documents:

• Two-page cover letter explaining how your past experiences align with the requirements of this position
• Complete CV
• Three professional references

Applications close on: October 26th, 2025

$70,000