Basic Function:

To manage and implement advisory activities under the SoilCycle Project, with specific responsibility for the coordination of “Project Hubs” and “Focus Farms” to validate and promote the in-crop application of organic manures using precision agriculture technologies. This includes running knowledge transfer (KT) and demonstration events, data collection for environmental and economic assessments, and the delivery of tailored supports to tillage farmers and contractors engaged in sustainable nutrient management.

Background:

Teagasc is a Development Agency of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, whose primary function is to support science-based innovation in the Agri-food sector and the broader bio-economy.

SoilCycle is an ambitious European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project that promotes the circular economy by increasing the use of organic manures in Irish tillage systems. It leverages GPS, Near-Infrared (NIR), and umbilical slurry systems to reduce chemical fertiliser use, improve soil health, and enhance nutrient efficiency. The project will operate through regional Project Hubs, each with a contractor and “Focus Farms,” conducting large-scale tramline trials and logistical studies. It aims to produce robust datasets, develop best practice guidance, and equip advisors and farmers with tools and knowledge to implement innovative slurry application techniques.

• Project manage the SoilCycle project, including close monitoring and reporting of deadlines, milestones, and budgets under the direction of the project leader.
• Work closely with project technician to ensure timely delivery of project tasks and deadlines.
• Assist project staff in completing project research and surveys.
• Work closely with the Focus Farmers in the set-up and delivery of nutrient management plans and on-farm trials to evaluate the effectiveness of in-crop organic manure application.
• Collect and analyse field-level data for integration into economic and environmental models and key reporting outputs.
• Support development of decision-support tools, best practice guides, and nutrient calculators.
• Coordinate manure testing, contractor training, and equipment calibration.
• Coordinate the scheduling and delivery of knowledge transfer (KT) events, workshops, peer-to-peer learning sessions, and field demonstrations.
• Promote project findings via discussion groups, public events, and publications.
• Actively engage with farmers, contractors, researchers, and the operational group to ensure timely delivery of project objectives.
• Ensure effective communication across project stakeholders and maintain a clear tracking system for deliverables and milestones.
• Assist management and administrative staff in achieving good governance and risk management through co-operation and adherence to administrative procedures and practices.
• Actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.
• Fully co-operate with the provisions for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of oneself, fellow staff, and non-Teagasc staff, and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
• Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time

 * This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive.  It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.

 Note:  The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.

Note:  Alternative location(s) may be considered solely at the discretion of Teagasc management.