Seasonal Agroecology Specialist

DORIS DUKE MANAGEMENT FOUNDATION • Hillsborough Township, NJ

6d • $23 • Onsite

About The Position

The Seasonal Agroecology Specialist will support both agroecology farm operations and affilated agroecology research under the guidance of the Scientist and Manager of Agroecology. The Seasonal Agroecology Specialist will participate in a wide range of agroecology operations, including livestock care, cattle grazing, and haying operations. In addition, the Specialist will support agroecological research through field experiment setup and maintenance, in-field sample collection and associated sample processing.

By supporting sustainable land management, the Seasonal Agroecology Specialist plays an important role in furthering Duke Farms’ mission of applied conservation, with a focus on promoting biodiversity, regenerative agriculture and climate resiliency.

Requirements

• B.Sc. degree in environmental science, biology, agroecology, ecology, entomology or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated experience working with farm or ranch operations, agricultural research stations, agricultural production systems, livestock management or related fieldwork.
• Basic knowledge of agroecology, including soil health, livestock management or agricultural systems, required.
• Ability to collect and organize field data related to agricultural or ecological systems.
• Comfort with using digital tools and software for research documentation, data entry and recordkeeping; willingness to use technology, including generative AI, to drive productivity and efficiency.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in dynamic, field-based environments while adapting to shifting conditions or priorities.
• Commitment to sustainable agriculture, ecological research and conservation principles.
• Ability to navigate the 2,700-plus-acre Duke Farms property as well as travel to other locations, both indoors and outdoors, in various weather conditions.
• Ability to repeatedly lift and carry up to 50 pounds to a height of 12 inches.
• Ability to work in various outdoor conditions including but not limited to heat, cold, sun exposure and wet weather with potential exposure to environmental factors such as poison ivy, ticks and mosquitoes.
• Available to work flexible hours, including the occasional weekends, evenings and holidays.
• A valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in field data collection, management, analysis and reporting to support research and adaptive land management decisions preferred.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the day-to-day operations of the agroecology field station, including supporting livestock care, cattle grazing, haying, mowing and general farm maintenance.
• Assist with the routine maintenance and safe operation of agricultural and research equipment.
• Collaborate with Agroecology staff on animal care and activities of external contractors to maintain operational standards and research integrity.
• Assist with experimental field plot setup, plot monitoring and associated recordkeeping.
• Support the collection and management of data on soil health, pasture quality, livestock management, invertebrate diversity and adaptive management.
• Perform other work, including special projects, as assigned.

Benefits

• 15% employer contribution to your 401(k).
• A values-driven culture rooted in integrity, excellence, collaboration, openness and imagination, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level