Research Project Coordinator

Organizational & Position Overview

The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA) represents the interests of Nova Scotia’s agricultural community. Today its members account for well over 90% of all agricultural production in Nova Scotia and brings together farm businesses representing all aspects of primary agriculture in the province. The NSFA tackles policy issues that impact the competitive and sustainable nature of the industry and takes an active role in supporting registered farms through delivery of programs and services. The NSFA supports environmental stewardship and the adoption of best practice with the ultimate goal of preserving and restoring our agricultural ecosystems for generations to come.

Working with the Environment & Climate Change Manager, the Research Project Coordinator (RPC) is responsible for managing and coordinating on-farm research trials and field activities in collaboration with participating farms and research partners for the Land Swap Project. This role involves project, research, and field planning, ensuring timely reporting on progress and outcomes. The RPC will also support the overall Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS), Living Lab – Nova Scotia Project by coordinating consistent research methodologies, fostering collaboration through co-development principles, and coordinating and overseeing data management. The RPC will support the knowledge and technology transfer strategy and support the socioeconomic project team in engaging with activity leads and producers.

We are looking for an individual who is passionate about agriculture, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and environmental stewardship. The ideal candidate will have a keen understanding of field research methodologies. The Research Project Coordinator must be a team player with leadership and collaboration skills, along with the ability to tailor communication to diverse audiences.

The NSFA prides itself in providing an enthusiastic work environment and is a tight-knit supportive group encouraging collaboration and sharing of ideas.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the Land Swap Project of the Living Lab – Nova Scotia by collaborating with participating farms and research partners to implement on-farm research trials and field activities, while overseeing project, research, and field planning, including all field activities and progress reporting.
• Ensure consistent research methodologies across the Living Lab – Nova Scotia project by working with other activity leads to train their teams in proper methodologies and support troubleshooting efforts.
• Be responsible for data management across the Living Lab – Nova Scotia project, working with activity leads to ensure data is accurately input, managed, and reviewed for quality.
• Perform statistical analysis of collected data and prepare comprehensive reports on findings.
• Facilitate data collection and meetings between the socioeconomic project activity lead/team and other activity partners to enhance collaboration and communication.
• Collaborate with the Living Lab – Nova Scotia Project Team including researchers, and activity leads to support the knowledge and technology transfer (KTT) strategy, ensuring project learnings are effectively shared among stakeholders.
• Support and collaborate with the KTT Coordinator on KTT activities, including preparing articles, presentations, factsheets, field days and delivering presentations on project learnings.
• Liaise with members to understand their environmental and climate change needs, ensuring that
• Support, train, and oversee summer students and casual research assistants in their roles.
• Manage project budgets and expenditures, ensuring financial accountability.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in field science such as Agriculture, Environmental Science, Biology or Geology
• Minimum of three years of relevant work and research experience
• Knowledge of the agriculture industry, environmental best practices, and climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies
• Experience in conducting practical on-farm research with an understanding of experimental design and analysis
• Previous experience managing research assistants or other team members
• Experience in project management is considered an asset
• A member or eligible for P.Ag. status with the Nova Scotia Institute of Agrology is considered an asset
• A Nova Scotia driver’s license and access to a vehicle are required (overnight travel will be required)

Compensation

• Starting annual salary between $59,000 – $66,000
• 3 weeks vacation
• Employer-paid health and dental benefits, life insurance and AD&D
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short-term and long-term disability plan
• 8% RRSP match following one year of employment
• Hybrid work option pending position requirements

This position is funded via government funding and is a term position with funding until March 31st, 2027.

Applications

Email resume and cover letter to hr@nsfa-fane.ca quoting “Research Project Coordinator” by October 13th, 2024.

Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture