Agricultural Conservation Advisor

**INTRODUCTION**

The Agricultural Advisor is a contract position for the Riverside-Corona Resource Conservation District (RCRCD) in Riverside, California. The Agricultural Conservation Advisor provides natural resource conservation-related information and training to farmers in the District. The contract runs from May or June 2024 - September 2026.

**DUTIES**

1. Conducts an agricultural needs and assessment of interest in ag conservation easements survey of local farmers, and compile results

2. Provides conservation planning assistance to ag producers and guidance in conservation practice installation and management, including soil management, irrigation efficiency, cover crops, hedgerows, etc.

3. Provides support to an evolving agricultural preservation easement program

4. Creates a database of local and potential/emerging farmers

5. Gathers information and assists in updating the “Fresh and Local” guide

6. Tracks number of community members engaged, and writes yearly and final reports for grant administration

7. Promotes needs assessment, training opportunities and the “Fresh and Local” guide to stakeholders at ag-related events such as the Grow Riverside and Beyond Conference

8. Researches funding/partnership opportunities and applies for grants to continue funding the position past September 2026

9. Conducts other related duties as requested by the District Manager and Assistant District Manager

**BASIC REQUIREMENTS**
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Understanding of agricultural resource conservation practices
- Ability to interact and communicate effectively with local farmers
- Fluency in English and Spanish
- Ability to write effectively and make regular reports
- Ability to plan and organize work and programs and to keep accurate records
- Must be able to work independently
- Must possess a current, valid California Driver’s License
- Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and outdoors, as needed
- Must be able to lift 40 lbs.
- Must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time

**BENEFICIAL SKILLS**

1. Knowledge of and/or experience with conservation farm planning

2. Knowledge of/or certification in carbon farm planning

3. Online mapping/GIS skills

4. Experience with local farming community

5. Experience in irrigation inspections, soil testing, carbon farm planning, native plant hedgerows, natural pest control, composting and/or mulching

6. Public speaking experience

**SUPERVISION**

The Agricultural Conservation Advisor is under the direct supervision of the Assistant District Manager. The District Manager will resolve conflicts in assignments.

**COMPENSATION**

The position is full-time, 80 hours per 2-week pay period; and could include nights and weekends, as needed.

**Salary**: $30 per hour. Advisor will receive $1 per hour raise after first full year, and another $1 after second full year, depending on performance.

Benefits: Individual health and dental insurance; vacation, sick leave

**Job Type**: Contract

Pay: From $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

**Benefits**:

- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee assistance program
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

- Riverside, CA: Relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person