Soil Health Planner

State of Utah • North Logan, UT

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Help preserve, improve, and protect Utah agriculture for future generations. Working directly with farmers, ranchers, landowners, federal agencies, and partner organizations, this role provides technical assistance and develops comprehensive conservation plans focused on improving soil health, agricultural production, and protecting the state's soil, water, and air resources. This position works in close collaboration with partner agencies—such as the USDA-NRCS, Utah Division of Water Quality, local soil and water conservation districts, Utah State University, and local watershed groups—on joint projects, regulatory framework support (e.g., AgVIP), and shared conservation efforts.

Requirements

• Full understanding of the conservation planning process, the 5 principles of soil health, and the 4 principles of nutrient management.
• Proven experience working in agriculture or directly collaborating with farmers and ranchers.
• Proficiency in GIS mapping, field monitoring tools, remote sensing, and drone technology.
• High level of motivation, ability to work independently, think strategically, and solve complex problems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a strong ability to build trust with producers and work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Certified Nutrient Management Planner (CNMP) status (or willingness to become certified).
• Experience as a Conservation Planner I or NRCS training/certifications is preferred.
• Local candidates with a background in agronomy or soil science are encouraged to apply.
• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Conservation, Botany, Horticulture, Agricultural Education, Agricultural Engineering, Biology, Environmental Science, Plant Science, or a related natural resource field.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• Position requires physical exertion, including long periods of standing and walking over rough, rocky, or uneven terrain, as well as recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, and reaching.
• Fieldwork involves outdoor conditions in varied weather and potential risks requiring safety precautions/equipment (e.g., working around operating machinery, potential exposure to hazardous chemicals, or contagious livestock diseases).
• Occasional overnight travel is required for conferences, meetings, or field events.
• A valid driver’s license is required per UCA 53-3-202(1)(a).

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, Agricultural Education, Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Conservation, Biology, Environmental Science, Soil Science, Plant Science, Botany, Horticulture, or another related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience as a Conservation Planner I or Natural Resources Conservation Service training/certifications is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Guide landowners and partners on the 5 principles of soil health, nutrient management planning, regenerative agriculture practices, integrated pest management, and irrigation water management.
• Conduct in-field soil health assessments, resource inventories, and site visits to working farms—including animal feeding operations and dairies—to evaluate natural resource concerns such as water quality.
• Write holistic conservation plans, including soil health plans, nutrient management plans (including AgVIP support), irrigation water management plans, and integrated pest management plans.
• Build trust and strong working relationships with agricultural producers, local conservation districts, and partner agencies (USDA-NRCS, DWQ, USU, local watershed groups) to expand adoption of soil health principles and drive joint initiatives.
• Plan, organize, and execute outreach events, field days, and educational activities on state/federal conservation programs for producers, landowners, and conservation professionals.
• Write and review grants, contracts, agreements, and Agriculture Resource Development Loans (ARDL).
• Collect, analyze, and interpret project data (including soil and water testing results) to report findings and make project recommendations.
• Train planners, staff, and partners on soil health practices, nutrient management, and conservation principles.
• Provide staff support to the Soil Health Advisory Committee.
• Attend partner meetings, give presentations, and present at field days.

Benefits

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level