Soil Scientist in Minnesota

POSITION ANNOUCEMENT – Minnesota Department of Agriculture

SOIL SCIENTIST – Nitrogen fertilizer and manure management

Note: This is a single position being posted simultaneously as a Soil Scientist 1 and Soil Scientist 2 position. The Soil Scientist 2 position requires a bachelor’s of science degree and three years of experience. The Soil Scientist 1 position requires a bachelor’s of science degree and no experience requirement, therefore it would be open to new graduates. If the position cannot be successfully filled as a Soil Scientist 2, it will be filled as a Soil Scientist 1 (pending, of course, on suitable candidates applying).

This position works with crop producers, crop advisors, university researchers, and government agency staff to increase efficient use of fertilizer and manure in areas of groundwater contamination from nitrates. Included in job responsibilities are the promotion, evaluation, and development of crop nutrient best management practices (BMPs) (www.mda.state.mn.us/nitrogenbmps) and providing nutrient management education and technical assistance to crop producers and agricultural professionals.

LOCATION: Rochester, MN

OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED:

·         Close working relations with crop producers, crop advisors, fertilizer dealers, SWCD and NRCS staff, university researchers, and extension educators.

·         Opportunity for individual creativity and pursuing new techniques and technologies.

·         Part of a collaborative, experienced, and dedicated team.

·         Contributing to Minnesota’s quality of life through improved water quality.

·         Wide mix of activities including field demonstrations, one-on-one consulting, group meetings, report writing, and educational material development.

·         Opportunities and budget for professional development.

·         Competitive salary, excellent benefits, state of the art equipment, and strong program support.

SALARY RANGES: Soil Scientist 1: $ 38,524-$ 55,958 annually. Soil Scientist 2: $45,393-$ 66,795 annually.

FOR JOB DESCRIPTION and MINIMUM and PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

Go to https://statejobs.doer.state.mn.us/JobPosting, select “Agriculture Dept” from the Department drop down list, and click the search button. Searches can also be made on posting number 13AGR000125 (Soil Scientist 1) and 13AGR000124 (Soil Scientist 2).

TO APPLY: www.careers.state.mn.us

POSTING DATES: December 9, 2013 to January 3, 2014