Forage Specialist
The Forage and Grazing Technician plays a critical role in supporting sustainable forage and grazing management practices in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Professional Agrologist – Advanced Extension & Program Leadership – 20 hours/week $55/hour, 4 weeks unpaid leave (2 weeks around Christmas/New Years)
Remote position, Alberta and SK wide travel expected
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Producer consultations, demonstration site support, and applied field work.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead program development with producer groups, research organizations, colleges and universities, and industry associations – at direction of provincial partners.
Synthesize data from demonstration sites into impact assessments, reports, and presentations.
Develop advanced extension materials, including articles, technical factsheets, and digital content.
Engage in extension activities with college and university outreach, including guest lectures, student engagement, and academic partnerships.
Promote and support the Advanced Grazing Systems online course, including updates, review, recruitment, and integration with field programming.
Oversee complex producer consultations, especially those involving multispecies grazing, dairy systems, or brown soil zone challenges.
Assist reviewing funding applications, industry partnerships, and collaborative opportunities (e.g., virtual fencing providers, watershed associations).
Collaborate strategically with the two technicians and ensure alignment across regional activities – including coordinating necessary travel to maximize effectiveness while eliminating overlap
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
Expertise in forage and grazing systems, advanced rotational grazing, and regional production systems.
Able to work on own, stay results‑focused, and remain accountable to the deliverables in the workplan.
Strong communication skills: public speaking, report writing, and content creation.
Ability to identify and maintain partnerships with researchers, industry groups, and academic institutions.
Proficiency with technology for data analysis, presentations, and digital extension.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Undergraduate degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Science, Range Management, or related field.
Professional Agrologist designation required.
5–10 years of experience in forage/grazing systems, regenerative agriculture, or extension.
Contractors are required to follow all organizational expensing guidelines. All necessary tools and equipment—including computer, printer, vehicle or transportation, cell phone, and internet—must be supplied by the contractor within the contracted wage.
To apply, send your resume to Sonja Shank at sonja@areca.ab.ca.
Closing date April 20, 2026
Funding for this position is provided in part through the Agricultural Climate Solutions – On-Farm Climate Action Fund