Dairy Consultant

Please visit https://www.kydairy.org/openpositions.html to find more information on the position and the application process.

Purpose:

The primary role of the Dairy Consultant (DC) will be to assist KDDC in developing and implementing programs such as but not limited to the Dairy Impact Program, Producer Outreach Program, collaborative programs, conferences, and tours. These programs are designed to meet KDDC’s mission to educate, promote, and represent dairy producers and foster an environment for growth of the Kentucky dairy industry. Each program specifically requires the DC to work directly with dairy producers at the farm level one on one in collaboration with other entities when necessary. The DC should make regular farm visits to producers in the Southeast Region.

This role will also have an additional focus on producer education and support. The DC in this role will lead KDDC educational initiatives related to active programming and collaborations and will work with the team to provide resources and events that address areas of need.

The DC in this position should expect to spend approximately 75% of their time on consultant activities and 25% leading producer education and support, with overlap expected between these areas. This is a remote, home-office-based job and travel within the region is expected at 60-80% and occasional statewide and out-of-state travel. The candidate is expected to live within the region, which includes: Adair, Anderson, Casey, Garrad, Laurel, Lincoln, Marion, Mercer, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, Taylor, and Washington.

Supervision:

The DC will report to the Executive Director through a Dairy Consultant Supervisor. Consultants will report activities in a monthly written report to the supervisor.

Skills and Qualifications:

1. Strong communication, and interpersonal skills
2. Knowledge of dairy production or equivalent experience, with preference for knowledge of DHIA, financial statements, and dairy management skills
3. Knowledge of computer technology, specifically Microsoft Suite
4. Ability to work effectively in an unsupervised environment
5. Ability to write and edit articles for newsletter
6. Willingness to travel
7. Ability to work occasional irregular hours
8. Demonstrate problem-solving skills
9. Experience with grant writing is preferred
10. Bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science, Animal Science, Agriculture, or related field.

Major Functions:

Consultant

1. Support a network of resources for producers by communication with other consultants, industry personnel, regulatory officials, and producers
2. Organize and assist with KDDC-hosted events, including tours, meetings, and conferences.
3. Maintain a record of activities and report to supervisor
4. Provide or coordinate articles for newsletter
5. Prepare an annual plan of activities and a budget for the ED and approval by the Board of Directors
6. Seek input from membership of KDDC for their concerns and needs
7. Meet with producers individually and assist them in finding the information and services
8. Represent KDDC at farm functions
9. Assist in public education and promotion of KDDC as requested at local field days and community functions
10. Provide guidance with programs from other agencies
11. Support KDDC’s active collaborations at the farm level and communicate with the Executive Director and Financial Director to maintain compliance with reporting requirements
12. Any other duties as deemed necessary by the KDDC Board of Directors.

Producer education and support

1. Establish relationships with Allied Industry, government agencies and universities to aid in developing resources for dairy producers
2. Coordinate educational and training programs and activities (Educational classes, field trips, and farm tours)
3. Work with other KDDC staff to determine educational areas of need for Kentucky producers
4. Engage in professional development opportunities to stay current with industry research, trends, and best management practices