Program/Project Manager I

The project manager will serve as the primary point of contact for a recently funded project by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). The primary purpose of this position is to work one-on-one with certified crop advisors and growers t...

  • 520584
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Agronomy
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing at: Jun 14 2026 - 23:55 CDT
  • Hybrid eligible
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About This Role

The Project Manager will administer activities associated with a recently funded project aimed at increasing the adoption of conservation practices in wheat-based cropping systems of Kansas. The responsibilities of the project manager will primarily include working one-on-one with Certified Crop Advisors and growers to facilitate enrollment of acres in Farm Bill conservational programs, including:

1) Becoming familiar with all conservation concepts, practices, and Farm Bill programs available to foment the adoption of such practices in Kansas (e.g., EQIP, CSP, etc.). Here, the project manager should have, or be able to obtain, NRCS Technical Service Provider (TSP) certification.

2) Engaging on a one-on-one basis with targeted CCAs, KSRE county/district educators, and the KWC to identify growers to be enrolled in existing conservational programs. First, the project manager will establish the baseline conditions of their operations before program initiation through surveys and farm visits, and develop management plans. They will design and implement CSAF mitigation practices on a case-by-case basis, incorporating local input into the project design.

3) Help growers enroll in existing Farm Bill conservational programs targeted to their specific conditions.

4) Assess, throughout the continuity of the project, how the adoption of conservational practices changed the system’s outcomes at the field level.

The project manager will also be expected to refine the project plans and timelines, aid with the financial management of the project’s budget, and supervise staff associated with the project. Of extreme importance, the project manager should be able to track down acres that adopted conservation practices as a result of the project.

About Us

The Department of Agronomy, in collaboration with the Research and Extension Centers, provides statewide leadership for teaching, research, and extension activities in plant breeding, crop production, range science, soil science, and weed science, and contributes substantially to activities in genetics, water science, and environmental sciences.

Worksite Description

This position is Hybrid eligible. Work is performed partially remotely and partially on employer premises or at a designated assignment location. Employee must have availability to be on campus frequently during the work week.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires a bachelor's degree and three years of relevant experience. This position may use an educational equivalency as determined relevant by a hiring manager.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's in Agronomy, Horticultural and Natural Resources, or related discipline.
  • Three years of experience
  • Conservational practices in agricultural settings.
  • Experience with NRCS and Farm Bill programs.

Additional licenses / registrations / certifications:

  • Have, or be able to obtain, NRCS technical service provider (TSP) certification.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Two-page cover letter explaining how your past experiences align with the requirements of this position
  • Complete CV
  • Three professional references

Application Window

Applications close on: June 14, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$70,000

 

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization and Sponsorship: 

Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Relocation to Kansas: 

Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives. 

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.