Western Grazing Specialist

NCAT advances practices in sustainable agriculture and clean energy, reducing poverty, so both people and the environment can flourish. We envision vibrant, economically strong communities that provide all people with healthy food and clean energy, soil, and water.

Through trusted, human-centered technical assistance, education, communications, and partnership-building, we help farmers, ranchers, agricultural and energy professionals, local food system leaders, and people with energy access needs adopt practical solutions that strengthen their communities and livelihoods. While national in scope, NCAT operates locally, maintaining deep connections to the communities and regions we serve.

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is seeking a full-time, Exempt, Western Grazing Specialist based in Montana. This position may be remote or located at NCAT’s headquarters in Butte, Montana. The Western Grazing Specialist will work directly with livestock producers across western rangelands, providing technical assistance, evaluating grazing operations, and supporting the adoption of innovative grazing management strategies that improve ecological and economic outcomes. The position will also coordinate with grazing partners, conservation organizations, and technical assistance providers to strengthen producer support and advance regenerative grazing practices throughout the region.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in sustainable agriculture, animal science, rangeland ecology, or related fields.
• Minimum of five years of experience working with agricultural producers in livestock grazing management or related fields.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• Preference given to candidates with demonstrated experience in sustainable grazing management, conservation planning, and livestock production systems.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
• Commitment to and passion for the NCAT mission.
• Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven or nonprofit organizations.
• Familiarity with sustainability, regenerative agriculture practices, and principles of sustainable rangeland grazing management.
• Experience working with livestock producers to develop and implement grazing plans.
• Proficiency with grazing modeling tools and software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Self-directed, organized, and capable of meeting deadlines.
• Familiarity with solar grazing and other farm energy-related systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Promote and support NCAT’s mission.
• Provide regionally appropriate technical assistance to livestock producers for implementing sustainable grazing practices through in-person site visits, phone calls, emails, workshops, and field demonstrations.
• Create educational and outreach materials related to sustainable grazing practices, such as grazing plans, grazing charts, and case studies.
• Cultivate a network of service providers by developing and maintaining positive relationships with producers, partner organizations, agencies, and research institutions.
• Develop systems and tools for coordination across partner organizations to enhance grazing management, conservation planning, and technical assistance delivery.
• Seek development opportunities for new projects and participate in the proposal and grant writing processes.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: $70,000 to $75,000, depending on location, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria, and a 401(k) plan.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged.

All interested applicants must apply by submitting a current resume and cover letter that highlights relevant skills and experience aligned with the listed qualifications.

To apply, please visit our workforce portal.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:
Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager
jobs@ncat.org
(406) 494-8644

NCAT is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.