Crop Research Coordinator

Description
The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) is a nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The soybean checkoff program was created as a part of the 1990 Farm Bill in order to maximize profit opportunities for soybean farmers. NSB staff is tasked with carrying out projects passed by the nine members of the board in the areas of farmer support, production and crop research, community engagement, and demand & utilization. The mission of the Nebraska Soybean Board is growing value for Nebraska farmers by maximizing their checkoff investments.

Job Description
The Crop Research Coordinator's main responsibility is to implement a strategic soybean research and farmer support program to improve Nebraska soybean farmer profitability. This position will work closely with Nebraska research institutions, national and regional research groups, and the agricultural industry. This position is responsible for seeking projects that align with the NSB strategic plan and mission, maintaining the research budget, and supporting the work of the NSB board of directors.

Essential Functions

• Coordinate program development, contract compliance, budget preparation, and project evaluation. Identify, analyze, and communicate timely and relevant research information that impacts Nebraska soybean producer profitability.
• Liaising with the NSB board, research committee, and staff to manage strategic investments in research projects and determine long-term research priorities.
• Facilitate the annual research grant process and implement the research objectives outlined in the strategic plan.
• Maintain effective relationships with ag organizations, universities, and related ag businesses interested in researching soybeans and soy products.
• Attend regular industry meetings so that NSB can maintain relevance in the research space.
• Soliciting grower input and represent those interests with researchers, extension personnel, industry colleagues, external stakeholders, and regional/national counterparts.
• Support the NSB's Production and Crop Research Committee in setting long-term research priorities and gauging the success of funded projects.
• This position requires frequent travel throughout the state and occasional travel to regional and national meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of the soybean industry.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Planning, organizing and critical thinking skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in crop/weed science, soil science, plant breeding, plant pathology, entomology, or other closely related agriculture fields; plus 3 years of agriculture work experience.
• Working knowledge of the land grant university system (particularly related to agricultural research and extension).
• Work experience developing and managing budgets and contracts.
• Work experience making presentations to groups.
• Work experience establishing and maintaining working relationships with a variety of people, including co-workers, farmers, agribusinesses, universities, and researchers.

Benefits
The Nebraska Soybean Board offers a variety of employee benefits including the following:

• Employee stipend
• Short & Long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Company match on retirement plan
• PTO, including paid parental leave

If you are interested in the position, please submit your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to Andy Chvatal at info@nebraskasoybeans.org by October 31st, 2025. If you have any questions, please contact Andy at (402) 441-3240.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person