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Wool Specialist Contractor

Background:

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. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications.

We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy. We are a national organization that operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We serve farmers, ranchers, agriculture and energy professionals, people who cultivate local food systems, and those with energy access needs.

NCAT will lead a multi-year project focused on strengthening the sheep and wool industry through the adoption of conservation agriculture practices, improvement in wool quality, and support of wool markets in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New York, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming

Objective:

The Wool Specialist will assist up to 100 wool producers in implementing the project’s Wool Improvement Fund to help access premium wool markets. The Wool Improvement Fund will provide a stipend to producers that will be used to ensure a higher quality product by improving shearing infrastructure and support. To do so, the Wool Specialist will deliver technical assistance to producers to improve wool quality and value. This position will also be the point of contact for wool buyers, participating wool growers, and partners for potential wool sales in the Western region.

Tasks:

  • Provide technical guidance and training via email, phone, and in-person visits to wool producers on best practices for animal husbandry, shearing, fleece handling, and wool preparation to improve fiber quality (grading, classing, and contamination reduction) for targeted markets.
  • Serve as a resource to participating wool growers on production improvement techniques and equipment.
  • Coordinate with project Technical Assistance Providers and other project stakeholders to align wool improvement strategies.
  • Collect necessary documentation and verification from wool growers to successfully establish and deploy the Wool Improvement Fund.
  • Create program materials for the Wool Improvement Fund.
  • Aggregate wool data, such as but not limited to wool bale reports.
  • Coordinate as needed the aggregation of wool from multiple producers to streamline processing and sales, assist in identifying and securing buyers or processors interested in purchasing high-quality wool, and/or facilitate producer access to value-added markets or cooperative marketing arrangements.
  • Maintain records of sales, pricing trends, and buyer feedback to inform ongoing program development.
  • Contribute to quarterly reports by providing updates on wool quality progress, logistical coordination, and market activity.
  • Maintain clear records of producer participation and support provided.
  • Regularly communicate with the project supervisor and participate in project check-in meetings.

Deliverables:

  • Track and report hours worked, and tasks completed in accordance with contract expectations.
  • Ensure full execution and documentation of the Wool Improvement Fund.
  • Contribute to quarterly reports by providing updates on wool quality progress, logistical coordination, and market activity.
  • Maintain clear records of producer participation and support provided.
  • Additional deliverables may be outlined in the final contract.

 

Contract Term: 

NCAT expects to contract a Wool Specialist for the life of the project (Spring 2026 through March 2028). The estimated level of effort is an average of 60 hours a month, busier in winter/spring, up to a maximum of 2,000 hours for contract term.

Location:

The contractor must be located in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, or Wyoming.

 

Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in wool production, sheep husbandry, or fiber quality improvement
  • At least 2 years’ experience in wool grading, classing, and processing standards.
  • Experience with logistics coordination, aggregation, and transport of agricultural commodities preferred.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with wool supply chain; shearers, wool help, producers, processors, and buyers.
  • Demonstrated experience in program coordination.
  • Strong organizational skills and self-directed time management.
  • Ability to travel as needed, estimated 15% of the time.

 

Requirements:

  1. The contractor must have general business liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000 and provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before the agreement can be fully executed.
  2. The contractor must provide their own equipment and tools to fully execute the scope of work, including office space, computer equipment, email account, strong internet connectivity, etc.
  3. Availability to travel occasionally to deliver technical assistance. Travel and costs will be organized by NCAT.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Interested individuals should submit a proposal by submitting the following documents to jobs@ncat.org

The following documents must be included:

  • “Wool Specialist Proposal” consisting of a CV
  • A narrative, not to exceed two pages, including:
    • One’s hourly rate.
    • Statement confirming that the applicant meets the requirements listed.
    • Responses detailing how the applicant can meet the scope of work.
    • Statement that the proposal is valid for 90 days.
  • Names and contact information for two professional references.

Short-listed applicants will be invited to an interview. The deadline for proposals is 5PM Mountain Time on February 9, 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org  to learn more about NCAT.

Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Cassie Lindau, Human Resources Manager

e-mail:  jobs@ncat.org

(406) 494-8644

Technical Assistance Provider (4)

NCAT is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance solutions in regenerative agriculture and clean energy so that both people and the land can flourish. NCAT operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications. We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy.

NCAT is seeking four (4) full-time Technical Assistance Providers who will be on the implementation team of a multi-year project focused on wool producers in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access. Technical Assistance Providers work directly with targeted wool producers with resources for improving wool quality, soil health, drought resiliency, and market access improvement

This position is remote, and the employee must be based in one of the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028. Employment is contingent upon the continuation of project funding.

QUALIFICATIONS:

This position requires a BA/BS degree in agriculture, animal science, natural resource management, conservation, or related fields. Experience in building soil health through regenerative ranching and farming; and demonstrated competence/certification in whole farm planning, such as NRCS conservation planner certification.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission.
  • Strong knowledge of animal agriculture in the West and familiarity with ag-related organizations and government agencies.
  • Understanding or willingness to learn about the sheep and wool industry.
  • Experience working for or with the NRCS.
  • Experience in providing technical assistance for conservation agriculture practices.
  • Experience working with land managers and agricultural producers in conservation planning, soil health planning, and implementation.
  • Competence in GIS mapping, data management, and using software such as the Web Soil Survey and the Rangeland Analysis Platform.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of western ecology, plants, wildlife, soils, and climate.
  • Excellent attention to detail and demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional ability to communicate and build relationships with farmers, ranchers, community organizations, government agencies, partners, private contractors, and the general public.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Self-directed and organized with the ability to multitask to meet multiple deadlines.
  • Exceptional ability to work productively both independently and in a collaborative team setting.
  • Familiarity with the sheep and wool industry is preferred.
  • Ability to conduct on-farm fieldwork in challenging terrain, weather, and climate conditions while carrying up to 30 pounds.
  • Willingness and ability to travel around the region. Travel may involve flexible work hours, including evenings and weekends. Some overnight travel will be required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Promote and support NCAT’s mission.
  • Enroll woolgrowers in the program and ensure producer eligibility by gathering necessary documents.
  • Assist woolgrowers to implement conservation practices, best practices to improve wool quality, and increase market access opportunities.
  • Complete NRCS Environmental Evaluations in accordance with NRCS standards.
  • Provide regionally appropriate technical assistance to woolgrowers via in-person site visits, phone, and email.
  • Monitor conservation practice implementation, monitoring, and measure and report on necessary information to the USDA.
  • Collect data and contribute to quarterly project reports towards benchmarks and goals.
  • Work closely with producers to gather necessary documentation and administer incentive funds, such as but not limited to the Wool Quality Improvement Fund and Market Innovation Fund.
  • Present at conferences, producer association meetings, stakeholder meetings, and other appropriate forums.
  • Administer program details to project participants and maintain their confidential records and information.
  • Develop and maintain positive, productive, professional relationships with producers, partner organizations, agencies, research institutions, and Tribes as part of program delivery.
  • Create outreach and promotional materials, such as press releases, blog posts, and podcasts.
  • Cultivate positive, inclusive, and productive relationships internally with teammates, working collaboratively within the NCAT team and across NCAT as a whole. Teamwork is an essential function of this job.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
This position offers a salary range of $63,000 to $67,000 based on experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org to learn more about NCAT.

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 page and choose Technical Assistance Provider.

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.

Producer Lead

NCAT is a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance solutions in regenerative agriculture and clean energy so that both people and the land can flourish. NCAT operates locally, with deep ties to the communities and regions we serve. We share knowledge, build skills, craft practical solutions, and cultivate networks through workshops and convenings, an online resource hub, and multimedia communications. We are known for providing trusted, human-centered technical assistance in agriculture and energy.

NCAT is seeking a full-time Producer Lead to oversee producer outreach and serve as the primary point of contact for Technical Assistance Providers. This role is central to advancing the sheep and wool industry by supporting conservation agriculture practices, improving wool quality, and strengthening wool markets. The Producer Lead will lead an implementation team of a multi-year project focused on wool producers in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to strengthen their market access. The Producer Lead will collaborate with NCAT’s project team, external partner organizations, and agricultural producers to ensure the successful delivery of outreach, education, market improvement, and technical assistance. This position will lead producer engagement efforts, coordinate logistics, and implement communication strategies to provide accessible resources and guidance on program participation.

This position is remote, and the employee must be based in one of the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Relocation support is not provided.

This position is tied to a grant-funded project that is scheduled to conclude March 2028. Employment is contingent upon the continuation of project funding.

QUALIFICATIONS:

This position requires a BA/BS in agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, conservation, or a related field and a minimum of five years of farming experience. Equivalent experience, such as extensive farming, leadership in agricultural projects, or specialized training, will also be considered.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission.
  • Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven or nonprofit organizations.
  • Experience in contracting, grant management, and compliance.
  • Strong knowledge of farming and/or ranching systems, ideally in the context of conservation or sustainability.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse producer communities.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to build trust and maintain relationships with producers and partners.
  • Organizational skills for managing schedules, events, and project deliverables.
  • Familiarity with NRCS programs or other agricultural assistance programs.
  • Experience working with technical assistance providers or in a coordination/liaison role.
  • Ability to create processes and track progress of multiple projects in various stages and different states.
  • Collect data and contribute to quarterly project reports towards benchmarks and goals.
  • Create outreach and promotional materials, such as press releases, blog posts, and podcasts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and lead outreach strategy to producers to inform them about available services, programs, and incentives.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for Technical Assistance Providers regarding outreach strategy, logistics, and producer coordination.
  • Facilitate communication between Technical Assistance Providers and producers to ensure a smooth implementation of services.
  • Develop and implement processes for producer enrollment, ensuring program eligibility by gathering necessary documents.
  • Assist with scheduling visits, technical assistance, and follow-up actions.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for project partners on Wool Improvement Stipend and Market Innovation Fund.
  • Oversee and administrate Technical Assistance Providers in deploying the Wool Improvement Stipend.
  • Oversee and administrate Technical Assistant Providers in deploying the Market Innovation Fund.
  • Gather necessary information for USDA reporting.
  • Assist in project-wide process development and tracking of deliverables. Lead project planning and outreach and education methods.
  • Provide accessible educational materials for program presentations and outreach events.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
This position offers a salary range of $68,000 to $73,000 annually, 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 401(k) plan.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org to learn more about NCAT.

To apply, please visit our workforce page and choose Producer Lead.

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.