CROPPING SYSTEM SPECIALIST

The Job

Do you want to play a key role supporting the competitiveness of Ontario's field crop sector?

If so, this is your opportunity to join the dynamic Field Crop team to develop, coordinate and implement field crop Cropping Systems programs. Help us transform new agronomy research and cropping system ideas into practical programs, products and services which will ensure Ontario's agricultural sector remains competitive and environmentally responsible both now and into the future.

This role develops and maintains effective partnerships with the agriculture sector and farm/commodity organization members by providing critical knowledge and understanding of field crop economic and agronomic scientific principles to improve to field crop cropping systems.

The Cropping Systems Specialists role requires excellent oral and written communication skills to discuss and present information effectively in presenting and writing through reports, articles and electronic media and knowledge of techniques and methods of adult education and training

The Ministry

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs helps to build a stronger agri-food sector by investing in the development and transfer of innovative technologies, retaining and attracting investment, developing markets, providing regulatory oversight, and providing effective risk management tools. The ministry also helps enable rural Ontario to build strong, vital communities with diversified economies and healthy social and environmental climates
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The Branch

Agriculture Development Branch is responsible for dealing with issues relating to agricultural production (crops and livestock), to assess the applicability of new crop production technologies for Ontario conditions and the application of best management practices to ensure a competitive and environmentally responsible agri-food sector.

Why work for the Ontario Public Service?

The Ontario Public Service (OPS) is committed to being an employer of first choice, creating a positive and inclusive work environment.

We offer:
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Flexible work arrangements
• Collegial and professional work culture
• Career growth and development opportunities across multiple business areas
• We provide on-the-job training to support your success in the role.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this job, you will:
• act as the lead provincial specialist on cropping systems management in field crops
• lead Ontario's technology transfer activities through the development, coordination and implementation of strategies, policies and programs
• coordinate projects designed to assess the applicability and sustainability of new and existing practices, products, technologies and programs
• prepare and deliver educational information and awareness building tools to facilitate change
• act as a liaison between the research community and industry
• manage contentious and high priority issues
• provide technical advice and expertise in support of policy and program development

How do I qualify?

Mandatory

• You have a valid G driver's license or equivalent to drive on Ontario highways to conduct site visits at rural and remote locations

Agricultural Expertise

• You have expert knowledge of scientific theories, principles and practices of soil management as it relates to cropping systems
• You have expert knowledge of the Ontario agricultural industry (e.g. economics, social importance, roles and mandates of farm and commodity organizations).
• You have knowledge of relevant acts and regulations that impact cropping systems practices.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

• You have knowledge of research methods and practices to investigate viability and applicability of new methods, techniques and technologies, analyze validity of findings and make recommendations on their suitability for Ontario conditions.
• You have the ability to identify and investigate issues, trends and developments related to crop production practices and environmental sustainability.

Consultation and Facilitation Skills

• You are able to assess industry educational needs and develop appropriate training and educational materials.
• You can encourage and motivate agricultural and rural organizations to develop and support policies and programs that encourage the adoption and maintenance of sustainable practices in their agricultural and rural communities.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• You use clear and concise language when creating a variety of written communication documents (ex. reports, educational materials).
• You can discuss and present technical information and ensure it is understood.

Project Management

• You have planning and coordination skills to manage project activities and resource requirements.

Please be advised that the results of this competition may be used to form an eligibility list of qualified candidates to potentially fill future vacancies represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). In accordance with the Collective Agreement, eligibility lists are shared with OPSEU representatives. By applying to this competition, you are providing consent that your name may be shared with OPSEU representatives.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Thursday, March 12, 2020 11:59 pm EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.