Agricultural Extension Economist

Reporting to the Manager of Agriculture Special Projects and working as part of a 22+ agricultural services team, the two Agricultural Economist positions we have open will play a central role in designing and implementing a provincial cost of production program that delivers credible, consistent, and industry-supported economic information by working with producers, our team and industry.

These two positions are ideally based in either the Kentville or Truro, Nova Scotia and are eligible for hybrid work arrangements with the requirement to have an in-office presence for the first three months. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday with some daytime and overnight travel required across Nova Scotia. These positions are funding-based, and both are offered initially on an 18-month term with the possibility of extension.

This is an exciting opportunity for professionals with expertise in agricultural economics, farm management, or applied research to make a meaningful impact on the sustainability and competitiveness of the Nova Scotia’s agricultural sector.

• Create and then execute a plan for the development and ongoing maintenance of cost of production models, analysis, and reporting for key agricultural commodities, including apples, wild blueberries, strawberries, onions, beef, and associated forage and grain crops.
• Researching other available models that may be transitioned to fit Nova Scotia’s needs
• Work closely with Perennia specialists, producers, commodity organizations, researchers, and government partners to ensure that cost of production data supports farm business management, industry planning, policy development, and informed government decision-making.

The successful candidates will possess strong analytical, research, and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate complex economic and financial information into practical tools, reports, and recommendations for industry, Perennia and our government partners. These positions require self-starters with a passion for agriculture, strong work ethic, positive attitude, a high personal standard of excellence and who enjoys working in a collaborative team environment.

• A degree in economics, agricultural economics, business, finance, or a related field with a preference for education with a focus on agriculture, farm management, or applied economics
• At least three years of relevant experience would be preferred
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to collect, organize, and analyze large datasets and develop cost of production models. Understanding and skills with statistics would be desirable
• Experience designing, working with and managing survey data, financial records, and economic datasets. With proficiency in Excel and data analysis tools
• Familiarity with farm business management principles and agricultural value chains. Knowledge of agricultural production systems is beneficial but does not need to be extensive
• The ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and manage timelines and deliverables
• Ability to prepare clear reports, technical documents, and presentations and capable of communicating complex information to producers, industry organizations, and policymakers
• Experience in project management would be preferred
• Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.) designation would be an asset, although deep technical production expertise is not required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation is Nova Scotia’s development agency focusing on the food sector. Our mission is to support success, transformation, and economic development in Nova Scotia’s agriculture, seafood, food and beverage sectors. Perennia’s highly skilled and collaborative team focuses on superior customer service, proactive solutions, and innovative approaches to meet client needs.

We also like to identify team members who have a desire to develop and learn new skills.

Professional development is also encouraged and supported.

We offer a competitive compensation package which includes base salary, extended health care benefits, three weeks’ vacation to start and RRSP contribution matching.

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