Company Description
Organic Seed Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to promote an abundant and diverse supply of organic seed. The organization aims to empower growers and seed stewards through participatory research, practical education, policy advocacy, and network development. OSA values community sovereignty, racial equity, and social justice, and prioritizes partnerships with like-minded organizations and individuals.

About the Role:
As California Research and Education Associate, you will play a vital role in OSA’s work to grow organic seed systems that are democratic and just, support human and environmental health, and deliver genetically diverse and regionally adapted seed to farmers everywhere. As we work with farmers and program partners from across the country and the globe, the programs we lead will advance organic plant breeding, variety improvement and seed production and for seed systems everywhere.

You will play a key role in managing a major new organic seed research project that OSA is launching. As project manager for this endeavor, you will work closely with OSA research staff, seed producers, university researchers, and other partners to conduct research into organic seed production and economics and to deliver educational products derived from this research. Your project and financial management skills will be used to ensure that OSA staff and partners successfully deliver project objectives on time and within budget, while ensuring that all federal financial and reporting requirements are met. This position reports to the Research and Education Director and collaborates as part of the R&E team.

Compensation and Benefits:
Values-based work culture, dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Exempt, full-time
Compensation level: $62,400 annual salary plus $500/month health stipend
Benefits:
Eligible for paid sick leave, vacation (starting at 10 days), personal days (2 days), and holidays (11 days)
Employer match of retirement savings (approx. $2,000/year)
Monthly phone stipend ($50)

Location: California (Arcata area preferred)

Reporting To: Research and Education Director

Responsibilities:
Primary role: Manage large multi-institution organic seed research project
Lead in the overall project coordination, coordinating work-planning for all OSA staff and contractors and for all deliverables.
Lead in organizing subcommittee and stakeholder advisory committee meetings.
Lead in overall project administration and reporting.
As needed, assist in managing seed research surveys, the coordination of regional field days and summits, and in the administration of impact surveys.
Analyzes award documentation to determine invoicing and reporting requirements.
Works with OSA Financial Manager to provide financial monitoring and analysis of overall grant, subawards and contracts.
Ensures compliance with sponsor terms, OSA policies/procedures and federal/state regulations.
Manages California seed production trials
Coordinates with land partners on trial ground preparations
Works with trial assistant to plant, maintain, and harvest trials; as well as clean and test seed
Works as part of the OSA Research and Education team in regional and national projects in alignment with the OSA mission as needed.
Participate in and support OSA general operations as needed.

Qualifications:
3-5 years relevant experience managing research projects, including complex, multi-partner projects
Experience with federal grant administration
A scientific background in agriculture and specifically a strong working knowledge of seed systems including experience in seed production
Strong written and oral communication skills
Strong computer and online technology skills
Demonstrated ability to manage project timelines and deliverables

To apply, please email a resume and cover letter to jared@seedalliance.org. The position will be open until filled.

Organic Seed Alliance

New Jobs

Research and Education Associate