[Hiring] California Solar Specialist @AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

Role Description

The California Solar Specialist (Specialist) advances and leads AFT's Smart Solar℠ and agrivoltaics work in California. In this catalytic role, the Specialist combines deep subject matter expertise with partnership development and farmer-facing outreach that moves the program from research, demonstration, and policy development to on-the-ground adoption.

The role serves as AFT's primary presence in elevating Smart Solar and agrivoltaics pathways in California, building relationships with:

• Farmers and ranchers
• Solar developers
• Agency partners
• Universities
• Research centers
• Agricultural organizations

Reporting to the National Smart Solar Director and closely involved with the California Regional Program, the Specialist will have an instrumental role in shaping the tools, resources, and multi-year agenda for AFT’s California and national Smart Solar programs.

Qualifications

• Direct expertise in agrivoltaics, agriculturally compatible solar, or a closely related agricultural, energy, land-use, and/or conservation disciplines is required. Relevant work experience in California strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to function as a senior subject matter expert and a resource for critical problem-solving.
• Experience developing and/or adapting complex procedures, administrative systems, and technical resources within scope to meet program and funder requirements is required.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills are required.
• Success in developing and effectively leading projects or initiatives of substantial scope and complexity is preferred.
• Demonstrated success working with a diversity of agricultural, energy, land-use, and conservation professionals is preferred.
• Track record in motivating high-impact teams, coalitions, and partnerships is preferred.
• Strong analytical and research skills are preferred.
• Experience in communicating with and/or managing contractors, vendors, service providers, and project partners is preferred.
• Strong editing, writing, and digital file management skills are required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite is required.
• Familiarity with AI support tools is preferred.
• Familiarity with digital communications platforms is preferred.
• Passion for advancing AFT's mission and a personal commitment to farm viability, resilience, and the future of farmers and ranchers across the United States is required.

Requirements

• BA or BS degree and a minimum of at least six (6) years of progressive experience in a technical or operational capacity in or supporting agriculture, solar, agronomy, conservation, environmental management, natural resource planning, or related fields; OR
• A graduate or advanced degree in a related field is strongly preferred and may substitute for an equivalent portion of the experience requirement; OR
• Significant direct experience in agricultural operations and/or in delivery of other major elements of AFT Smart Solar Principles may be substituted for a degree if other qualifications are met.
• Demonstrated subject matter expertise in one or more areas of direct relevance to Smart Solar program pillars and service delivery.
• Knowledge of and commitment to farming, agriculture, and energy development in California and the western US strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Insurance coverage begins the 1st of the month following the date of hire.
• Medical & Prescription Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Company Paid Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Healthcare & Dependent Care
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401k Plan
• Sick Leave: Regular full-time employees accrue 13 “sick days” per year.
• Vacation Leave: Accrue 15 days during the first year increasing by one day per year to 20 days per year maximum.
• Holidays: AFT observes twelve fixed holidays and a week between Christmas and New Years off during the year (all offices closed) plus a choice of up to three (depending on hiring month) floating holidays.

Company Description

American Farmland Trust offers excellent vacation, medical, retirement, and other benefits. The salary range for this position is from $80,000 to $85,000 based upon experience.