Agronomist

Overview

Navajo Agricultural Products Industry (NAPI) produces Navajo Pride brand agricultural products. Located in the Four Corners region near Farmington, New Mexico, we operate one of the largest tracts of contiguous farmland in the nation. Our operations include advanced irrigation management and a selection of crops such as potatoes, corn, alfalfa, beans, barley, wheat, and oats. We are owned and operated by the Navajo people and focus on premium products for retail, repackaging, or direct sale to customers.

Position:
Agronomist | Status:
Full-Time | Openings: 1 | Requisition: MAN-26-00004

• Coordinate all phases of the agronomy operations to evaluate crop growth, manage pest pressures, monitor plant health, and oversee irrigation reporting in a timely manner.
• Provide accurate agronomic recommendations to Crop Managers to optimize crop production; generate management reports with findings.
• Coordinate with the ATRL Manager on sample testing; interpret soil and tissue test results and develop fertilization programs for multiple crops.
• Develop fertilizer recommendations based on soil and plant tissue analyses and research.
• Evaluate and implement tillage systems to sustain economic crop production.
• Research and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sampling methods used by staff.
• Research and promote agricultural strategies to address soil, climate, weather, and pest challenges.
• Monitor soil and water quality and advise on minimizing environmental impact and remediation of degraded soils.
• Evaluate new crop varieties for yield, quality, disease resistance, nutrition, or climate adaptation; coordinate variety trials when needed.
• Evaluate and recommend precision agriculture strategies to reduce input costs.
• Develop technical best management practices (BMPs) for Crop Managers and the Assistant Agronomist.
• Maintain databases related to crop inputs (seed varieties, yields, fertilizer, chemicals).
• Plan and implement crop rotations and sustainable farming practices to maximize yields.
• Coordinate presentations and training seminars for NAPI staff as needed.
• Prepare, justify, and manage the departmental budget.
• Stay up to date on crop nutrition and agricultural technology; coordinate with Conservation staff on NRCS or FSA programs.
• Coordinate with the Prairie Dog department to research methods for managing highly impacted areas across the farm.

• Direct and supervise the work unit in compliance with applicable laws, NAPI policies, and Navajo affirmative action guidelines.
• Lead and supervise reporting personnel, including workload and schedule management to promote efficiency.
• Identify developmental needs and coach, mentor, and train staff.
• Manage performance, conduct reviews, document actions, and handle corrective actions and salary adjustments per policy.
• Ensure a safe working environment and compliance with OSHA and environmental safety regulations; assist with incident investigations as directed.
• Facilitate effective communication and problem resolution within the team and organization.
• Collect information from relevant sources, handle complaints, resolve conflicts, and prepare findings in accordance with NAPI policies.

Education and Experience

Required:

• Master’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Soil Science, Weed Science, or a directly related discipline, with strong knowledge in Biology, Chemistry, and Plant Physiology.
• Three (3) years of progressive experience in crop production rotation systems, insect and disease control, plant nutrient management, basic farm equipment, storage and handling techniques, and related best management practices; supervisory experience in an agricultural environment.

Preferred:

• PhD degree in Soil Science, Weed Science, or a directly related discipline.

Substitution:

• Eight (8) years of exempt-level experience in agricultural business and management may be substituted for the master’s degree requirement.

Navajo Preference:

Navajo preference will be applied in accordance with the Navajo Preference in Employment Act (NPEA). NAPI aims to hire qualified Navajo personnel for all positions, in line with NEPA and tribal sovereignty initiatives.

EOE Statement: NAPI is an equal employment opportunity employer. Hiring will be done in accordance with the Navajo Preference in Employment Act (NPEA).

Posting status:
This position is currently accepting applications.