Producer Lead

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 a full-time Producer Lead to oversee producer outreach and serve as the primary point of contact for Technical Assistance Providers. This role is central to advancing the sheep and wool industry by supporting conservation agriculture practices, improving wool quality, and strengthening wool markets. 

 The Producer Lead will lead an 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. The Producer Lead will collaborate with NCAT’s project team, external partner organizations, and agricultural producers to ensure the successful delivery of outreach, education, market improvement, and technical assistance. This position will lead producer engagement efforts, coordinate logistics, and implement communication strategies to provide accessible resources and guidance on program participation.

This position is remote, and the employee must be based in one of the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

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.

QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires a BA/BS in agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, conservation, or a related field and a minimum of five years of farming experience.  Equivalent experience, such as extensive farming, leadership in agricultural projects, or specialized training, will also be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

• Commitment to and passion for the NCAT mission.
• Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven or nonprofit organizations.
• Experience in contracting, grant management, and compliance.
• Strong knowledge of farming and/or ranching systems, ideally in the context of conservation or sustainability.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse producer communities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to build trust and maintain relationships with producers and partners.
• Organizational skills for managing schedules, events, and project deliverables. 
• Familiarity with NRCS programs or other agricultural assistance programs.
• Experience working with technical assistance providers or in a coordination/liaison role. 
• Ability to create processes and track progress of multiple projects in various stages and different states.
• Collect data and contribute to quarterly project reports towards benchmarks and goals.
• Create outreach and promotional materials, such as press releases, blog posts, and podcasts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Promote and support NCAT’s mission.
• Develop and lead outreach strategy to producers to inform them about available services, programs, and incentives.
• Serve as the main point of contact for Technical Assistance Providers regarding outreach strategy, logistics, and producer coordination.
• Facilitate communication between Technical Assistance Providers and producers to ensure a smooth implementation of services.
• Develop and implement processes for producer enrollment, ensuring program eligibility by gathering necessary documents.
• Assist with scheduling visits, technical assistance, and follow-up actions.
• Serve as the main point of contact for project partners on Wool Improvement Stipend and Market Innovation Fund.
• Oversee and administrate Technical Assistance Providers in deploying the Wool Improvement Stipend. 
• Oversee and administrate Technical Assistant Providers in deploying the Market Innovation Fund. 
• Gather necessary information for USDA reporting.
• Assist in project-wide process development and tracking of deliverables. Lead project planning and outreach and education methods. 

Provide accessible educational materials for program presentations and outreach events

SALARY AND BENEFITS: This position offers a salary range of $68,000 to $73,000 annually, depending on location, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria, and 401(k) plan.

APPLICATION PROCESS: 

Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org  to learn more about NCAT. 

Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager

(406) 494-8644

 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

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