Organic Farmer Services Manager

Title: Organic Farmer Services Manager  
Classification: Exempt (1.0 FTE)
Location: Remote; must reside in the Midwest
Application Period: Open until filled
Report To: Climate & Conservation Director
Team: Climate & Conservation  
Job posting site: https://marbleseed.org/about/careers                   

Position Summary

This position is the primary technical assistance resource supporting grain producers through the USDA Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program. The core focus of this role is providing high-quality farmer education, one-on-one technical assistance, and practical practice support related to organic grain production, grain crop rotations, and soil health practices. This position oversees project budgets, producer payments, reporting requirements, and partner coordination to ensure full federal compliance and successful grant implementation.

Program Management

• Implements the AMP program, including timelines, deliverables, and reporting.
• Manages the program budget, including tracking expenditures, processing farmer payments, and ensuring compliance with USDA requirements.
• Coordinates communication with project partners, farmers, and USDA staff.
• Designs and manages project workflows to efficiently and accurately manage milestones.
• Provides detailed reports and assessments on project progress and outcomes
• Represents Marbleseed in public forums and leadership roles.

Farmer Education & Technical Assistance

• Provides technical assistance to grain and field-crop growers on organic production, crop rotations, soil health, conservation practices, markets, and certification.
• Supports farmers in evaluating and implementing practices that improve soil health and resilience.
• Coordinates and facilitates farmer workshops, field days, and other educational events.
• Supports producers with practical conservation and organic system plan guidance, and resource connections.
• Helps develop educational resources, tools, and training materials.

Qualifications

• Three years of experience in organic agriculture, soil conservation, or a related field (e.g., agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education)
• Bachelor’s degree in soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering (additional years of experience may substitute for education)

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of soil health, crop rotations, conservation practices, and Midwest row-crop systems.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex programs or projects, ideally involving farmers or agricultural stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills with proven ability to manage budgets, track payments, and maintain detailed records.
• Experience working collaboratively with partners, farmers, and/or Federal agencies.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and active listening skills.
• Strong computer and data management skills; comfort with spreadsheets, tracking systems, and reporting tools.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Residence in the Upper Midwest (North Central SARE region).
• Knowledge of USDA Organic Regulations, organic crop/livestock production, and on-farm conservation practices.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Established relationships with organic content experts and industry members
• Master’s degree in related field
• Knowledge of NRCS programs, operations, planning process, and assessment tools
• Formal education in organic row crop agronomy, organic grain systems, or field crops
• Experience managing federal or foundation grants
• Program evaluation or impact measurement experience

Compensation & Benefits

Pay is $50,000-56,000, commensurate with experience, at 1.0 FTE. Position includes benefits and flexible paid time off. The successful candidate will work remotely (computer and office equipment provided) and must reside in the Midwest. A language differential of 6% may be offered for multi-lingual candidates.

Commitment to Equity and Representation: We believe that representation matters, and a diversity of people, perspectives, and lived experiences makes for a more enriching workplace. Within programmatic work, representation of diverse perspectives informs the creation of activities and education that strengthen farming and food systems across the Midwest. We want to add your perspective, and we strongly encourage applications from those typically underrepresented in farming and agriculture, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, and women.