Soil Management Specialist - Field Crops

Soil management is a critical component of agricultural production, nutrient management and resiliency to climate change.

Help us transform new research and 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.

What can I expect to do in this role?

• act as the lead provincial specialist on soil 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 requirements:

• In order to conduct site visits at rural and remote locations, you must hold a valid class 'G' driver's licence or equivalent as recognized by the Province of Ontario.
• You are proficient in oral and written French at an advanced level.

Technical knowledge:

• You have expert knowledge of scientific theories, principles and practices of soil management as it relates to the production of field crops.
• 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 soil management practices.

Research, analytical, evaluation 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 soil management issues, trends and developments related to crop production practices and environmental sustainability.

Consultation and facilitation skills:

• You have an understanding of adult education principles and techniques to deliver training.
• 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 can develop professional documents, reports and educational materials using clear, concise language.
• You can present information, options and recommendations in a clear, concise and logical manner.
• You have the proven ability to develop and present information in many formats and can determine the most effective way to transfer technical information.

Other important skills:

• You have planning and coordination skills to manage project activities and resource requirements.
• You are proficient with a variety of computer applications, such as e-mail, internet, word processing, spreadsheet, statistical analysis and database software.

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 Monday, December 12, 2016 11:59 pm EST. Late applications will not be accepted.

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