NCAT is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance solutions in regenerative agriculture and clean energy so that both people and the land can flourish. NCAT operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications. We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy. 

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is seeking four (4) full-time Technical Assistance Providers who will be on the implementation team of a multi-year project focused on wool producers in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access. Technical Assistance Providers work directly with targeted wool producers with resources for improving wool quality, soil health, drought resiliency, and market access improvement.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028. Employment is contingent upon the continuation of project funding. 

This is a remote position. Employees must be based in the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires a BA/BS degree in agriculture, animal science, natural resource management, conservation, or related fields. Experience in building soil health through regenerative ranching and farming; and demonstrated competence/certification in whole farm planning, such as NRCS conservation planner certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission.

Strong knowledge of animal agriculture in the West and familiarity with ag-related organizations and government agencies.

Understanding or willingness to learn about the sheep and wool industry. 

Experience working for or with the NRCS.

Experience in providing technical assistance for conservation agriculture practices.

• Experience working with land managers and agricultural producers in conservation planning, soil health planning, and implementation.
• Competence in GIS mapping, data management, and using software such as the Web Soil Survey and the Rangeland Analysis Platform.
• Competent with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
• Demonstrated knowledge of western ecology, plants, wildlife, soils, and climate.
• Excellent attention to detail and demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
• Exceptional ability to communicate and build relationships with farmers, ranchers, community organizations, government agencies, partners, private contractors, and the general public.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Self-directed and organized with the ability to multitask to meet multiple deadlines.
• Exceptional ability to work productively both independently and in a collaborative team setting.
• Familiarity with the sheep and wool industry is preferred. 
• Ability to conduct on-farm fieldwork in challenging terrain, weather, and climate conditions while carrying up to 30 pounds.
• Willingness and ability to travel around the region. Travel may involve flexible work hours, including evenings and weekends. Some overnight travel will be required.

 

Responsibilities 

• Promote and support NCAT's mission.
• Enroll woolgrowers in the program and ensure producer eligibility by gathering necessary documents. 
• Assist woolgrowers to implement conservation practices, best practices to improve wool quality, and increase market access opportunities.
• Complete NRCS Environmental Evaluations in accordance with NRCS standards.
• Provide regionally appropriate technical assistance to woolgrowers via in-person site visits, phone, and email.
• Monitor conservation practice implementation, monitoring, and measure and report on necessary information to the USDA. 
• Collect data and contribute to quarterly project reports towards benchmarks and goals.
• Work closely with producers to gather necessary documentation and administer incentive funds, such as but not limited to the Wool Quality Improvement Fund and Market Innovation Fund.
• Present at conferences, producer association meetings, stakeholder meetings, and other appropriate forums.
• Administer program details to project participants and maintain their confidential records and information.

Develop and maintain positive, productive, professional relationships with producers, partner organizations, agencies, research institutions, and Tribes as part of program delivery.

Create outreach and promotional materials, such as press releases, blog posts, and podcasts.

Cultivate positive, inclusive, and productive relationships internally with teammates, working collaboratively within the NCAT team and across NCAT as a whole. Teamwork is an essential function of this job.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: This position offers a salary range of $63,000 to $67,000 based on experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

 NCAT is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.