Seasonal Agroecology Specialist

Position Details

Title

Seasonal Agroecology Specialist

Location:

Duke Farms, Hillsborough, N.J.

Reports To

Scientist and Manager of Agroecology

Status

Part time, seasonal, non-exempt

How To Apply

Click here to apply. Please submit a résumé. The priority application deadline for this position is April 24. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

BACKGROUND

Duke Farms is a living lab where model strategies for nature restoration, wildlife conservation and clean energy transition are developed. Located on 2,700 acres in Hillsborough, New Jersey, the campus serves as a gathering place for global decision-makers and local neighbors to ignite change.

As a center of the Doris Duke Foundation (DDF), Duke Farms advances the foundation’s mission to build a more creative, equitable and sustainable future. We work across three areas: arts & culture, nature, and health & well-being. In addition to Duke Farms, DDF operates five national programs as well as Shangri La, a global center for transformation located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. DDF’s activities are guided by the will of Doris Duke, who endowed the foundation with financial assets that currently total over $2 billion. (To learn more about the foundation, visit dorisduke.org .)

POSITION

The Seasonal Agroecology Specialist will support both agroecology farm operations and affilated agroecology research under the guidance of the Scientist and Manager of Agroecology. The Seasonal Agroecology Specialist will participate in a wide range of agroecology operations, including livestock care, cattle grazing, and haying operations. In addition, the Specialist will support agroecological research through field experiment setup and maintenance, in-field sample collection and associated sample processing.

By supporting sustainable land management, the Seasonal Agroecology Specialist plays an important role in furthering Duke Farms’ mission of applied conservation, with a focus on promoting biodiversity, regenerative agriculture and climate resiliency.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the day-to-day operations of the agroecology field station, including supporting livestock care, cattle grazing, haying, mowing and general farm maintenance.
• Assist with the routine maintenance and safe operation of agricultural and research equipment.
• Collaborate with Agroecology staff on animal care and activities of external contractors to maintain operational standards and research integrity.
• Assist with experimental field plot setup, plot monitoring and associated recordkeeping.
• Support the collection and management of data on soil health, pasture quality, livestock management, invertebrate diversity and adaptive management.
• Perform other work, including special projects, as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

• B.Sc. degree in environmental science, biology, agroecology, ecology, entomology or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated experience working with farm or ranch operations, agricultural research stations, agricultural production systems, livestock management or related fieldwork.
• Basic knowledge of agroecology, including soil health, livestock management or agricultural systems, required.
• Ability to collect and organize field data related to agricultural or ecological systems.
• Comfort with using digital tools and software for research documentation, data entry and recordkeeping; willingness to use technology, including generative AI, to drive productivity and efficiency.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in dynamic, field-based environments while adapting to shifting conditions or priorities.
• Experience in field data collection, management, analysis and reporting to support research and adaptive land management decisions preferred.
• Commitment to sustainable agriculture, ecological research and conservation principles.
• Ability to navigate the 2,700-plus-acre Duke Farms property as well as travel to other locations, both indoors and outdoors, in various weather conditions.
• Ability to repeatedly lift and carry up to 50 pounds to a height of 12 inches.
• Ability to work in various outdoor conditions including but not limited to heat, cold, sun exposure and wet weather with potential exposure to environmental factors such as poison ivy, ticks and mosquitoes.
• Available to work flexible hours, including the occasional weekends, evenings and holidays.
• A valid driver’s license.
  
  

We recognize that not every candidate will meet every qualification listed. If you are passionate about our mission and believe you have the skills and experience to perform the essential functions of this role, we encourage you to apply.

What We Offer

• Anticipated starting hourly rate is $23.00.
• 15% employer contribution to your 401(k).
• A values-driven culture rooted in integrity, excellence, collaboration, openness and imagination, and diversity, equity and inclusion.
  
  

The Doris Duke Foundation is committed to inclusive hiring and equal employment opportunity. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations and communities to apply. Our recruiting and employment practices adhere to all applicable federal, state and local laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. We provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation in the job application process is needed, please contact us here .