Lead Soil Scientist - Working Lands Conservation

Multiplier•Logan, UT

1d•$68,000 - $78,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We’re excited to welcome a Lead Soil Scientist to spearhead and expand our soil health work. The Soil Scientist will contribute to Working Land Conservation’s mission by developing and executing field-based research and applied projects. They will also guide the ongoing development of our new Ecosystem Service Laboratory. Project Management & Research: The Soil Scientist will lead Working Lands Conservation’s emerging soil program by combining cutting-edge research with on-the-ground application. This position oversees statistical analyses and publication of existing datasets; designs and implements new soil health and soil carbon field studies; and shares results through reports, presentations, and outreach. The Soil Scientist will play a key role in developing new projects and grants; building partnerships with agencies, universities, and land stewards; and shaping the long-term vision for WLC’s soil work in the western U.S. Management of Ecosystem Service Lab: The Soil Scientist will spearhead the operation of WLC’s Ecosystem Service lab. Over the past year, WLC opened a non-profit Ecosystem Services Lab that provides ranchers and other stakeholders with cost-effective soil, water, and plant testing so that land stewards have information to adaptively manage their landscapes. The lab contains state-of-the-art equipment including an elemental analyzer, mid-infrared spectrometer, and plate reader. Duties will include managing laboratory logistics and budgets, supervising lab staff, and delivering high-quality science in service of working landscapes.

Requirements

M.S. or Ph.D. in: soil science, soil ecology, soil biogeochemistry, conservation ecology, restoration ecology, rangeland ecology or other related science-based field;
Experience working in a soil biogeochemistry laboratory, carrying out relevant protocols, and using the following laboratory equipment: elemental analyzer, mid-infrared spectrometer, and plate reader;
Strong interpersonal skills including working with multiple, diverse, stakeholder groups;
Proficiency with statistical analyses of ecological data;
Advanced skill undertaking GIS mapping;
Experience presenting research including writing scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals;
Experience hiring and leading a field crew;
Experience living / working in a remote location;
Ability to (happily) spend long days in extreme conditions including cold, hot, and buggy environments;
Ability to work safely in remote field locations;
Ability to carry 20 pounds over uneven terrain;
Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

Lead field work focused on soil health and soil organic carbon;
Spearhead statistical analyses and write scientific papers using existing datasets;
Strengthen existing partnerships and develop new soil-focused networks;
Write project reports and present research;
Lead ongoing soil-based work across projects, including travel for fieldwork, crew hiring and training, and managing logistics.
Develop and write grant proposals independently and with the WLC team;
Travel as needed to develop and initiate new projects.
Manage Research Assistant(s) and Field Technician(s) on projects related to the Soil Science Program;
Oversee project logistics;
Manage the Ecosystem Service Laboratory.
Collaboratively work with the WLC team to further WLC’s mission;
Dedicate time to professional development of organizational and management skills;
Contribute to a healthy and inclusive culture at WLC.