Soil Health Coordinator

Application Deadline - Friday, May 29th, 2026 @ 4pm, or until filled.

Position Description:

The Soil Health Coordinator works out of the Mankato field office and will serve 11 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) including the following counties: Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, LeSueur, Martin, McLeod, Nicollet, Renville, Sibley, Waseca, and Watonwan. The Soil Health Coordinator will be a prominent expert in soil health, collaborating closely with existing and newly hired Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) soil health staff and utilizing additional staffing grants to increase training and job approval authority (JAA). They coordinate extensive outreach initiatives and events within their area, staying informed of the latest soil health methods and compiling successful practices. Additionally, they will gather and analyze data on soil health and return on investment (ROI) from farms. They create media materials such as handouts and videos to illustrate soil health principles, develop comprehensive guides and resources, and engage in peer mentoring programs. Furthermore, they will identify obstacles and facilitate connections between landowners and industry vendors to implement soil health practices effectively.

Duration:

1.5 years of funding with possible extension

Education, Training, Experience Minimum:

Two (2) year degree in soil conservation, soil science, agronomy, biology, agriculture, natural resource science, or a related field AND three (3) year of advanced professional experience including soil health program development, management, or implementing soil health system on with landowners/operators. Ability to advise or direct the work of others including providing training, consultation, review, and related assistance for a wide variety of ecological science conservation practices. Possess a valid driver's license.

Education, Training, Experience Desired:

Advanced degree in soil conservation, soil science, agronomy, biology, agriculture, natural resource science, or a related field AND three (3) years of advanced professional experience including soil health program development, management, or implementing soil health systems on with landowners/operators. A working knowledge of soil and water conservation best management practices and technical standards in applying those practices. Demonstrate effective communication both verbally and in writing with a diverse group of people including applicants, board members, and the public. Thorough working knowledge of soil erosion control principles, nutrient management, proper planting techniques, no-till planter setup and planter calibration.

Work Environment:

Work will be performed both in the office and outdoors as workload demands. Daytime travel will be required throughout the 11 County SC TSA area. As necessary, some overnight travel will be required. Ability to lift 50 pounds occasionally and perform outdoor work in all seasons. Overall supervision and direction will be provided by the Blue Earth SWCD Host Manager.

Travel:

Extensive day travel is required in the 11-county work area. Some additional in-state travel is also required to perform the responsibilities of this position. A vehicle is provided; however the incumbent is expected to provide his or her own means for traveling occasionally, with reimbursement for mileage.

Hiring Procedure:

Applicants must submit a completed South Central Technical Service Area application for employment to Jerad Bach Host Manager at the Blue Earth

SWCD 1160

South Victory Drive Suite #5, Mankato, MN 56001. The applications are available on the Blue Earth SWCD web site at www.blueearthswcd.org, can be picked up at the Blue Earth SWCD or they can be mailed to you by calling 507-345-4744. Individuals selected for interviews will be contacted by phone.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Candidates will be considered without discrimination for any non-merit reasons such as race, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, or sexual orientation.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$35.00 - $45.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Ability to

Relocate:

Mankato, MN 56001: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person