Soil Health Educator

Job Description

Job Description

The Soil Health Institute (SHI), a non-profit organization created to safeguard and enhance the vitality and productivity of soil, seeks an experienced Soil Health Educator. Educators at SHI develop educational programs to advance the adoption of soil health management systems. Internally, they collaborate with SHI Project Scientists to create resources to mobilize SHI’s research. Externally, they work with many partners to ensure program content is practical and locally relevant and cultivate networks of support and mentorship in soil health management. While Educators are assigned to work on a specific project, they also contribute more broadly to the SHI’s educational efforts and may support additional projects as needed.

This position will report to Dr. Mara Cloutier, Program Director, and support the Advancing Markets for Pacific Northwest Potatoes, Industrial Hemp, and Commodities from American Indian Reservations: Managing Soil Health for Farmer-First Outcomes project. Specifically, the soil health educator will develop, partner, and deliver culturally relevant soil health education programs to four American Indian Tribal communities, integrating Indigenous agricultural techniques, as applicable, with soil health management practices in the Pacific Northwest. This is a 1-year fixed appointment with the possibility of extension based on funding, performance, and interest. Remote work is expected, with periodic travel. The preferred start date is April 1 , 2026 .

Key Responsibilitie s

Co-organize and co-facilitate listening sessions with Indigenous growers to understand their agricultural systems, barriers, needs, and opportunities that can be addressed through soil health

Design and deliver culturally appropriate soil health educational materials including field days, soil health workshops, and soil health reports

Integrate Indigenous knowledge, traditional ecological knowledge, and cultural practices into soil health education and curriculum

Activate and expand existing partnerships with Tribal organizations and other project partners to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience by improving soil health

Engage Indigenous growers in reviewing reports, fostering two-way knowledge exchange and integrating their feedback to improve interpretation, relevance, and program outcomes

Create, implement, and continuously improve instruments for evaluating Education Program effectiveness while maintaining consistency across SHI projects/initiatives

Coordinate with SHI colleagues to ensure communication products are consistent, accurate, and well-aligned with SHI’s mission and values

Advance SHI’s commitment to support a workplace culture guided by the principles of humility, transparency, and respect

Regular travel to field days, grower meetings, and conferences is required

Support other projects on an as needed basis

Qualifications

We value diverse perspectives and recognize that each applicant for this role will bring unique skills, knowledge, and lived experience. Candidates who meet at least some of the criteria below are encouraged to apply.

Education: B.S. or M.S. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Agriculture, Ag Education, or a related field

Experience: Proven experience engaging respectfully and effectively with culturally diverse agricultural communities. Preference will be given to candidates with experience working directly with Indigenous growers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Understanding of soil health, sustainable farming, livestock management, and Indigenous food systems

Strong communication and facilitation skills, including the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences, guide collaborative group processes, and integrate stakeholder expertise and feedback into evolving program strategies and deliverables

Demonstrated ability to build and sustain collaborative partnerships across culturally diverse communities and agricultural contexts

Strong organizational skills, with an ability to plan, prioritize, and execute a diverse workload

Ability to thrive in a remote working environment and can work effectively in both indoor and outdoor (field/farm) environments

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States and possess a valid United States driver’s license

Work Environment

This position is primarily remote, with preference for candidates living in or near the Pacific Northwest. Travel is expected approximately 15 to 25% of the time.

Compensation

Expected annual salary is $80,000 - $90,000, depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time staff position with competitive paid leave, life, health and dental insurance, 401K, and other benefits.

Review of applications will begin March 11, 2026 and the position will remain open until filled.