The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) is a unique not-for-profit farm organization whose diverse membership has a significant presence in all agricultural areas of the province and across all major sectors. The mission of OSCIA is to facilitate responsible economic management of soil, water, air and crops through development and communication of innovative farming practices. The Department of Research and Knowledge Transfer supports this mission
by administering on-farm applied research initiatives, supporting those initiatives' stakeholders and participants, and sharing the results of those projects with the membership and the industry.

OSCIA is seeking an exceptional individual to fil the role of Knowledge Mobilization Specialist. The Knowledge Mobilization Specialist reports to the Director of Research and Knowledge Transfer and supports the Department's initiatives and research program stakeholders in developing knowledge transfer products and events. This is a full-time position at 36.25 hours per week and is a hybrid role requiring two days per week based out of OSCIA's Guelph office. This position may require occasional work outside of normal working hours and frequent travel to support events, and connect with stakeholders.

Responsibilities:
• Support the development, delivery, promotion, reporting, and evaluation of OSCIA's onfarm research programs and their associated Knowledge Translation and Transfer (KTT) products and agronomic findings for Ontario farmers
• Facilitate and support the delivery of educational/demonstration/KTT/knowledge sharing/knowledge mobilization initiatives that stem from cost-share programming
• Synthesize and communicate research program results and industry knowledge in a meaningful way to various audiences including industry stakeholders, programming partners, and farmers
• Build and maintain highly functional relationships with research partners and farmer cooperators who generate and supply knowledge transfer content
• Develop and facilitate programming surveys to satisfy performance measures and build meaningful insight into partners' and farmers' experiences with KTT products
• Coordinate, lead and facilitate discussions and meetings with internal staff and external stakeholders, e.g., government, academia, conservation authorities, farmers, etc.
• Support development and reporting performance measures and program deliverables for the research programs' KTT aspects
• Support the Director of Research and Knowledge Transfer in reaching and coordinating agreements with project stakeholders and partners, including Communications Strategies, KTT plans, subcontractor agreements, and knowledge mobilization commitments
• Other duties as assigned.

Behavioural Competencies:
• Adaptability: Demonstrate a willingness to be flexible, versatile, and dynamic in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency.
• Ethical behaviour: Ensure personal behaviours align with the Association's core values and code of conduct.
• Relationship development: Establish and maintain positive working relationships with others, internally and externally.
• Effective communication: Speak, listen, and write in a precise, clear, and timely manner using appropriate and effective communication tools.
• Client focus: Anticipate clients' needs and respond in an appropriate and timely manner, seeking to provide the highest quality service.
• Teamwork development: Work cooperatively and effectively with others to set goals, resolve challenges, and make decisions that enhance cross-functional cooperation.
• Initiative: Ability to assess and initiate tasks independently.
• Decision-making: Assess role-based situations to determine the importance, risks, and make clear decisions in a timely manner.
• Time management and organization: Set priorities, develop a task schedule, monitor progress towards deadlines.
• Problem-solving: View problems as learning opportunities, focus on improving future results.
• Cultural Competence: Value diversity and inclusivity, demonstrating an ability to work effectively with trust across various departments.
• Foster Sustainability: Ensuring the work we do improves the viability and sustainability of rural Ontario and Ontario agriculture.
• Continuous Learning: Participates in an environment of professional development and personal growth.

Qualifications/Experience:
• Post-secondary education in an agricultural or environmental-related field (e.g. soil science, agronomy, agricultural business, resource management, geography)
• A minimum of 2-3 years industry experience, preferably based in communications and/or extension services
• A strong understanding of agriculture, soil health and water quality, and agronomic principles, and how farmers synthesize and grasp those principles
• A Certified Crop Advisor designation or similar agronomic certification is highly valued
• Knowledge of agronomic challenges and solutions across different crop systems and soil types in Ontario
• Strong organization, verbal and written communication, and presentation skills
• Proficiency in computer programs including Microsoft applications, Adobe applications, CANVA or similar communications product development software
• Ability to work independently and take initiative, environment, consistently producing quality work and meeting deadlines under competing priorities, and evolving programs
• Ability to work through times of high administrative and reporting requirements, but remain innovative and creative, seeking opportunities for improvement
• Demonstrated aptitude for teamwork and effectiveness in a collaborative environment
• Excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Must be flexible to travel as-needed in Ontario and have a willingness to work outside of normal office hours when required to attend events, meetings etc.
• French language skills are an asset
• Valid Driver's License. Mileage and travel costs are compensated but access to a personal vehicle is required.

What we offer:
• A collaborative, constructive and dynamic work environment
• The ability to make meaningful contributions to leading-edge agricultural programming
• Hybrid work opportunity: OSCIA staff work from our Guelph head office a minimum of two days per week, and are supported in an ability to work off-site for up to three days per week
• Progressive policies to support work-life balance and professional development
• Onsite parking is available at no cost
• A competitive salary commensurate with experience level.

Interested in joining our Team? Please apply by clicking on APPLY TO THIS POSITION by October 27 with a resume and cover letter.

We would like to thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

OSCIA is committed to providing accessible employment practices that follow the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodation for disability during any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.
OSCIA strives to foster a workplace that reflects the diversity of the community it serves and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.

Location: 1-367 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, Ontario