Lab Manager - Soil Ecology

Lab Manager - Soil Ecology

Who We Are What We Do

The Land Institute co-leads the global movement for perennial, diverse, regenerative grain agriculture at a scale that matches the enormity of the intertwined climate, water, and food security crises. An independent 501c3 non-profit founded in 1976, the organization seeks to reconcile the human economy with nature's economy, starting with food. The transdisciplinary team of scientists, together with global partners, are developing new perennial grain crops, like Kernza®, and diverse cropping systems that function within nature's limits while researching the social transformation required for a just, perennial human future.

How You'd Fit In Stand Out

As the Lab Manager in Soil Ecology, you will oversee the daily activities in the soil ecology lab. This includes working with the lead scientist to develop and update project management plans and oversee all necessary tasks by the rest of the lab members. This position spans management of multiple different projects, hands-on participation in the research activities, and analysis of results. The ability to develop and sustain systems of organization for upwards of 14 concurrent projects, including large multi-institutional grants, is critical for success in this role. Duties include : work with the lead scientist to develop and facilitate a work plan for lab members; coordinate and execute soil and plant sample collection and harvest; direct, conduct, and train others to perform soil laboratory analyses; organize samples and data; perform data analysis and writing.

Primary Responsibilities Expectations

Organization and Management (57%)

• Develops and maintains a strategy for managing both the workflow and sample pipeline in the lab
• Oversees data entry and storage, ensuring that results are organized and accurately recorded
• Provides input on plot layout and creates and maintains field maps
• Prioritizes, plans, and directs field and laboratory activities conducted by the ecology team (technicians and general assistants)
• Trains and leads groups of up to 6 lab members in field activities ranging from recurring measurements and upkeep to harvesting and soil sampling events
• Manages laboratory tasks : review and revise protocols, performs calculations, trains and assists lab members for all ecology related tasks
• Provides guidance to technicians and general assistants in the lab and supports them in learning and growing in their role

Research, Data Synthesis, and Writing (12%)

Field and Lab Work (28%)

Communication (2%)

Outreach (1%)

Diversity Inclusion :

Who you are

Masters of Science in relevant field (Soil ecology, environmental science, agronomy, or related) 2 years of relevant work experience,

Organizational Competencies

Hours

Generally available to work forty hours per week, via in person and digital meetings, primarily during 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Central Time on weekdays when most of our staff and collaborators are working. We are flexible for caregivers who might need to provide rides or support, attend appointments, or be available for caregiving.

Location Travel

This role is based in Salina, Kansas and is primarily in person, especially during the field season. Some limited remote work during the off season is possible. Occasional overnight travel to the Lawrence, Kansas field station and annual conferences or all hands meetings is required.

Environmental Working Conditions

Work primarily in the field in the summer, often in extreme heat

Work in a general office or laboratory research setting in the off season

Physical fitness required for soil sampling and other field work, with the occasional need to lift up to 50 lbs

To apply, submit your resume / CV and letter of interest describing why you would be a good fit for this role, detailing your interest and relevant experience.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Job applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Job will remain active until the position is filled. Our ideal start date is April 14.

Compensation Benefits

The Land Institute offers an excellent benefits package and competitive salary commensurate with experience.

To apply, submit your resume / CV and letter of interest describing your interest in the position and relevant experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Land Institute is an equal opportunity employer and embraces the opportunity to provide employment to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. We are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Pay Range : $65,000 - $81,000 per year

Salary : $65,000 - $81,000