Indiana University - Assistant or Associate Professor, Sustainable Food Systems

Bloomingdale, IN

Description:

• The O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University seeks applicants from public policy and affairs, governance, or other social sciences with a demonstrated expertise in food systems dynamics for an Assistant Professor or tenured Associate Professor. The applicant’s research should address the coupled nature of food systems and sustainability. We are particularly interested in candidates studying food systems within a U.S. context. We are also interested in candidates who work across disciplines with a record of interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful candidate will be expected to develop an extramurally-supported research program. Candidates may be appointed at the rank of assistant or associate professor.
• This position is partially funded by Indiana University Bloomington’s Emerging Areas of Research initiative, which underwrites the Sustainable Food Systems Science (SFSS) program. The SFSS team seeks to understand sustainable food system development by studying the leverage points used to build more resilient and sustainable food systems. The candidate will contribute to the O’Neill School’s developing food systems research/curriculum and engage with the SFSS program scholars to bolster IU’s capacity and contribution the field.

Qualifications:

• Minimum educational qualifications include a Ph.D. and evidence of a developed research program focused on food systems.
• Employer is  especially interested in applicants with a record of successful teaching and mentoring of students from all backgrounds (including first-generation college students, low-income students, racial and ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ, etc.) and an interest in contributing to O’Neill School’s programs, curricular offerings, and research portfolio in ways that enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion; applicants are encouraged to address these topics in the letter of application.

For more information, click here.

Drake University - Prof. of Law/Director of Drake Agricultural Law Center

Des Moines, IA

Description:

• Drake University Law School invites applications for a tenured/tenure-track position as Assistant/Associate/Professor of Law in the field of Agricultural Law and Director of the Drake Agricultural Law Center beginning in the fall of 2019.
• Founded in 1983, the Agricultural Law Center provides opportunities for students to explore how the legal system impacts the global food system and the agricultural sector's ability to produce, market, and use agricultural products. The Center promotes and supports research and scholarship and has hosted distinguished agricultural law scholars from all over the country and the world to teach students and share their unique cultural perspective on food and agricultural law. Students can earn a Food and Agricultural Law Certificate by completing 21 credits of coursework, a major legal research and writing project, and an internship.
• The Agricultural Law Center also provides information and resources for American farmers, landowners, and agricultural entrepreneurs to help these key agriculture stakeholders make profitable and sustainable decisions regarding our nation’s land and agricultural production.
• Over 85% of Iowa’s land is used for agriculture. Drake’s location in central Iowa places it at the heart of a state that leads in production of soybeans, corn, eggs, and pork.
• The successful candidate will teach agricultural law courses and serve as the Director of the Drake Agricultural Law Center. Drake was the first American law school to offer a J.D. specialization in agricultural law, offering courses not only on agricultural and food law but also on agriculture’s effect on social, economic, and political systems. The student-published Drake Journal of Agricultural Law has been a leading legal journal focused solely on these issues for more than 20 years.

Requirements:

• Applicants must hold a J.D. degree (or the equivalent) and should have outstanding records of accomplishment in scholarship, teaching, and service as well as substantial practice experience. Applicants with backgrounds in all areas of Agricultural Law are welcome.

For more information, click here.

Robinson, Curphey, and O'Connell - Partner or Associate Attorney

Monroe, MI

Description:

• Robison, Curphey & O’Connell, LLC (“RCO Law”) is seeking to fill two vacant positions to support its growing Southeastern Michigan practice, at both the mid-level partner and associate levels. Qualified candidates must be licensed to practice in Michigan, and should have superlative academic credentials with strong written and verbal communication skills. Relevant experience is sought across a breadth of general civil practice skills with emphasis on real estate, business, and estate planning matters.  The ideal candidates will have strong ties to Monroe or Lenawee County.

Requirements:

• Candidates for the partner position should have at least seven years of relevant legal experience and a partial book of business. Candidates for the associate position should have at least two years of general civil practice experience, with estate planning, real estate and commercial transactional experience preferred. Agricultural or litigation experience is preferred, but not required.

For more information, click here.

Department of Homeland Security - CPB Agricultural Specialist

Pembina, ND
Portal, ND
International Falls, MN
Raymond, MT

Description: 

• Joining the Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations will allow you to use your expertise to detect and prevent terrorists and instruments of terror from entering the U.S. This position starts at a salary of $51,440.00 (GS-09, Step 1) to $96,978.00 (GS-12, Step 10) with promotion potential to $96,978 (GS-12 Step 10). Apply for this exciting opportunity to strengthen Homeland Security by performing law enforcement activities that enforce the laws and regulations related to the import and export of agriculture, commodities and baggage entering and/or exiting the United States.
• In this position you will become a key member of a team of Homeland Security professionals detecting and preventing terrorists and instruments of terror from entering the U.S.

Duties:

• Serving as an expert and technical consultant in the areas of inspection, intelligence, analysis, examination and law enforcement activities related to the importation of agricultural/commercial commodities and conveyances at a port of entry.
• Applying a wide range of Federal, state and local laws and agency regulations when determining the admissibility of agriculture commodities while preventing the introduction of harmful pests, diseases, and potential agro-terrorism into the United States.
• Participating in special enforcement, targeting or analysis teams charged with collecting and analyzing information and identifying high-risk targets
• Conducting visual and physical inspections of cargo, conveyances, or passenger baggage
• Planning and conducting remedial actions such as treating, disinfecting, and decontaminating prohibited commodities, conveyances, contaminants or agricultural materials.

Requirements:

• You must have successfully completed a full 4- year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major field of study in biological sciences (including botany, entomology, and plant pathology), agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines (e.g., ecology). 
• If you have not completed the above described education, you must have completed at least 24 semester hours in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry or a related discipline at an accredited college or university plus appropriate experience or additional education. 
• Examples of qualifying experience may include working in such areas as pest management, environmental monitoring, farm management, agricultural commodity importation and/or exportation, or other related experience in pest/pathogen detection, regulation, eradication, and control.

For more information, click here.

Writer for Food Systems Vision Prize Toolkit

San Francisco, CA

Description:

• Estimated 20 hours / week
• Timeline: End of July -- Oct 12 
• (With possibility of extension through February 2020)
• Supported and conceptualized by The Rockefeller Foundation, the Food System Vision Prize 2050 team is comprised of SecondMuse, OpenIDEO, and the Rockefeller Foundation. 
• The Food System Vision Prize 2050 is a  first-of-its kind, bold initiative to reimagine the future of our global food system. The Prize will convene and curate networks of individuals and organizations to displace dystopian depictions of our collective future with positive future visions that can inspire the transformation of local, regional, and global food systems. There will be a $1M fund attached to the prize for winning teams, and an accelerator program at the end.
• This role would involve owning and creating one of the cornerstone assets of this ambitious program: the Vision Prize Toolkit. Rooted in Human-Centered Design, the Prize Toolkit will provide an overview of opportunities and challenges with our food system, and provide pathways to support participants to engage effectively in the Prize. Through outreach and promotion, we expect hundreds of thousands of eyes on this Prize, with this Toolkit being one of the key assets generated and promoted.
• This Prize will also inform much of the Rockefeller Foundation's ongoing investment strategy, which has the opportunity to positively impact millions of lives in the future.

Requirements:

• Strong writing skills 
• Strong research skills
• Strong information synthesis skills
• Highly detailed / organized

For more information, contact Rebecca Chesney at rchesney@ideo.com

Associate General Counsel - Division of Agriculture

The University of Arkansas announced that it is accepting applications for the position of Associate General Counsel. This attorney will advise the University of Arkansas, its Board, officers, administrators, faculty, and staff on legal issues affecting the University, and in particular the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. For more information, see the University of Arkansas Job Posting -  https://jobs.uark.edu/postings/35382

Mayor's Office of Food Policy - Director

New York, NY

Description:

• The Office of Food Policy is a Mayoral Office that works to advance the City’s efforts to increase food security, promote access to and consumption of healthy foods, and support economic opportunity and environmental sustainability in the food system. 
• The Office has a critical role to play integrating an equity frame into food policy priorities and solutions. 

Duties:

• Providing guidance to the Mayor, Deputy Mayors, and agencies within and beyond the Health and Human Services portfolio regarding food policy positions and legislation;
• Leading the development and driving successful delivery of cross-agency initiatives that continue to place New York City on the cutting edge of food policy;
• Advising and coordinating City agencies and Mayoral offices, within and beyond the Health and Human Services portfolio, to ensure a systems approach to food policy initiatives;
• Creating partnerships with advocates, nonprofit and community organizations, academic institutions, and private industry to further carry out its mission.
• The Director will shape and deliver on the goals of the Office of Food Policy. The Director will play an important role sharpening the strategy and maximizing the impact of the Office. This is an exciting opportunity for a leader to take immediate action and think in bold and new ways about how to deliver on identified priorities and to integrate their insights on new solutions. The Director will report to the Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services and will collaborate with other Deputy Mayors, City agencies, and Mayoral offices to advance the work of the Office. The Director will also:
• Deliver Innovative Policy and Programmatic Initiatives. The Director will partner with internal and external stakeholders to establish a plan for the Office within the first 90 days of their tenure and begin taking action to implement identified priorities. The Director will develop and manage relationships with City agencies and offices to collaborate on policy and programmatic solutions and to advise on their implementation. They will work to ensure food policy is integrated into a broader set of City initiatives.
• Cultivate External Partnerships. The Director will develop partnerships with external organizations with a focus on cross-sector initiatives that amplify and advance the City’s food policy goals. These organizations may include academic institutions, philanthropic funders, technology and business partners, and community leaders.
• Provide Knowledge and Insight. The Director will play an important role acting as a champion for food policy and associated initiatives occurring through City government. They will speak on behalf of the Mayor’s office and staff the Deputy Mayor to speak on issues of food policy at local, national, and international events, conferences, and expert convenings. The Director will engage experts, practitioners, and community leaders on key topics to facilitate idea sharing and advance New York City as a leader in food policy solutions.
• Oversee Research and Measurement. The Director will be responsible for coordinating data analysis and reporting on City performance related to food policy including the delivery of the annual Food Metrics Report. Collaborating with research partners, including the Center for Innovation through Data Intelligence and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, they will advise on research to advance understanding and identify solutions that work to advance the priorities of the Office and citywide food policy initiatives.

Requirements:

• A baccalaureate degree and five (5) years of full-time experience at the executive level in a large governmental agency, business firm, civic or community organization; or
• Education and/or experience equivalent to "1" above. However, all candidates must have at least one (1) year specialized experience as described in "1" above.

Preferred Skills:

• A combination of a master’s degree in public administration, public policy, food policy, public health, business, law, community development and social justice, urban planning, agriculture or a related field and 10+ years of related work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience which exhibits the ability to perform satisfactorily in the position.
• Strong experience working in food policy domains including food access, food and economic insecurity, food equity and justice, sustainability, supply chain and food system stability, and social determinants of health. Experience developing systems level solutions a plus.
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice and equity.
• Knowledge of local, regional, and national food systems policy and legislative issues, including developing recommendations for related programs.
• Experience with state and city government processes, including regulations, legislation and community engagement. Understanding of New York City government and City agencies a plus.
• Experience developing and managing cross-sector partnerships, including with funders.
• Experience managing complex projects with demonstrated effectiveness on time and on budget.
• Demonstrated ability to provide leadership, guidance, and advisory support to interdepartmental teams.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills sufficient to advise, negotiate, and consult with executive level management and to effectively prepare and present reports/findings to a variety of audiences.
• Knowledge and experience leveraging technology and design thinking to develop solutions that support food policy solutions a plus.

For more information, click here.

Department of Agriculture - Attorney Advisor (General)

Juneau, AK, Milwaukee, WI, and San Francisco, CA

Description:

• The incumbent serves as an attorney providing legal advice, research, analysis and interpretation of federal, state and local laws, as well as oral and written opinions, memoranda, pleadings, briefs and legal support of all USDA programs and litigation, and performs other legal services as assigned.

Duties:

• San Francisco and Juneau locations: 
  
• Provides written and oral legal advice to USDA officials, including officials with the Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service, in connection with the day-to-day operations of their programs.
• Provides written and oral legal advice to Forest Service officials regarding various land management issues, including national forest land management plans, special uses of National Forest System lands, and compliance with environmental statutes and regulations.
• Conducts and assists with litigation involving USDA agencies, programs, and officials, including preparing pleadings, interviewing witnesses, conducting depositions and hearings, and negotiating with opposing parties. The litigation includes federal court litigation and may include litigation before administrative bodies and USDA administrative law judges.
• Conducts legal research to ensure that advice provided is based upon a sound understanding of the law and facts, anticipates foreseeable consequences of advice provided, and recommends actions to ensure that decisions made and actions taken are practical, effective, and legally sound and defensible.
• Reviews and prepares various kinds of legal documents for general and specific use, including documents related to contracts, real property transactions, and special use permits.
• Milwaukee location, in addition to the duties listed above, will also include:
  
• Administrative litigation of cases and appeals including cases before Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Civil Board of Contract Appeals, as well as civil enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act matters.
• Transactional cases involving acquisition of property interests and review of other lands issues for USDA agencies in Michigan and Wisconsin.
• Reviews and prepares various kinds of legal documents for general and specific use, including documents related to contracts, real property transactions, and special use permits, Forest closure orders and law enforcement issues.

Requirements:

• Successful completion of a full course of study in a school of law accredited by the America Bar Association (ABA) and have the first professional law degree (LLB or JD) (Law School transcript required) and
• Currently be a member in good standing of the bar of a state, territory of the United States, District of Columbia, or Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
• Mastery of statues, regulations, and legal precedents related to major USDA program areas or relevant subject matter expertise to provide expert legal advice regarding the assigned program area, develop or recommend litigation strategies and procedures, aid the Department of Justice in the trial of important or precedent-setting cases, and negotiate or participate in negotiating settlements on behalf of the Department.
• Mastery of a large and complex body of law in which precedents are frequently conflicting or non-existent to make determinations and reach conclusions which guide the Department or the Agency in resolving subsequent, similar problems; provide legal advice to heads of programs and Agencies on complex and difficult legal questions or factual issues; and write opinions and case assessment memoranda after conducting detailed factual and legal research.
• Mastery of the principles and techniques of legal analysis and practice in order to prepare pleadings, motions, briefs, litigation reports, and related documents in connection with suits by and against the Government and determine in each case the nature of action or defense, the legal issues involved, the most effective course of action, and optimal strategies and tactics to be employed.
• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of missions and functions of the USDA and its agencies or relevant subject matter expertise, as appropriate in order to provide legal services in support of USDA programs and activities that are consistent with the strategic goals of USDA and the priorities of the Secretary of Agriculture.
• Mastery of the principles and techniques of written and oral communication to speak and write with clarity and tact to provide guidance on complex legal issues, secure acceptance of recommendations, prepare complex legal opinions, and effectively represent the Department in a variety of external interactions.

For more information, click here.

Olam - Corporate Counsel

Fresno, CA

Description:

• This position will support a fairly new legal department in a very dynamic and ever-growing organization. This position will play a key role in supporting a broad range of projects and ensure legality of company processes and procedures. This position will largely provide support on contractual matters and transactional projects, but will also assist with corporate, real estate and litigation matters as appropriate. 
•  You may be able to transfer to a different Olam office (e.g., Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Georgia, Texas, etc.) after training and successful completion of 18 months on the job and final approval by company management. 
• Globally, Olam is a leading agri-business operating from seed to shelf in 70 countries, supplying food and industrial raw materials to over 23,000 customers worldwide. Our global team of 70,000 employees has built a leadership position in many businesses including spices and vegetables, cocoa, coffee, dairy, edible nuts, grains, rice and cotton.
• In the U.S., Olam began operations in 2002 and has grown, both organically and through acquisitions, to manage a wide range of agricultural products across 12 states. Our operations include farming and origination, food processing and logistics management from the ground to the door of our many customers worldwide.

Duties:

• Prepare, analyze and review a variety of contracts with vendors, customers and other third parties (examples include, NDAs, Supply Agreements, MSAs, Consulting Agreements, Software License Agreements, POs. Lease Agreements, etc.);
• Draft, develop and update contract templates and other forms used by the organization;
• Negotiate contracts, alongside business personnel, under swift time constraints while meeting deadlines;
• Support business leadership, as well as other members of the U.S. Legal group, with legal and regulatory advice, and assist on various business transactions;
• Provide support on corporate, real estate and litigation matters as appropriate;
• Research and analyze the law on complex issues to support business/legal decisions;
• Advise business personnel in a way that ensures compliance with rules and regulations;
• Assist in the development of policies and practices based on federal, state and local legal requirements;
• Prepare responses to inquiries from regulatory agencies and other applicable parties;
• Stay current on legal and regulatory issues affecting the company and the industry;
• Collaborate on various legal, business, and administrative functions as needed by the head of the U.S. Legal group and the global legal department; and
• Assist with the managing of outside legal counsels, as needed for litigation and corporate transactional issues.

Requirements:

•  At least 2 full years of applicable experience is required;
• Experience providing guidance for food or agricultural companies is preferred, but not mandatory;
• Must have a J.D. and be fully licensed, in good standing, to practice law in a particular jurisdiction (California is preferred, but not mandatory);
• Excellent academic and professional background;
• Excellent references;
• Knowledge of federal, state and local laws;
• Ability to analyze case law and provide recommendations;
• Administrative skills; and
• Strong computer skills.

For more information, click here.

Caribou Biosciences, Inc. - Senior Transactional Counsel

Berkeley, CA

Description:

• Caribou Biosciences, Inc. is a leading company in CRISPR genome engineering located in Berkeley, CA. Caribou's tools and technologies provide transformative capabilities to therapeutic development, agricultural biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, and basic and applied biological research. Caribou's proprietary technology puts the Company at the forefront of the development of new therapeutics which offer profound potential benefits to human health. Caribou has developed a next-generation best-in-class CRISPR genome engineering technology platform and has a leading intellectual property position. Caribou is dedicated to developing cutting-edge solutions for cellular engineering and analysis by combining scientific expertise and integrity with quality systems.

Duties:

• Caribou is seeking an experienced attorney to join its Legal team. 
• The candidate must be motivated, enthusiastic, professional, and committed to working as a team player.  
• The candidate must have the ability to negotiate, draft, and drive to conclusion licensing agreements (both in- and out-licenses), services agreements, clinical trial agreements, and the like, with a strong attention to detail, and always striving to produce quality work in a timely manner. 
• The candidate must be able to communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, especially business development and management, as well as with external attorneys and business people.  This role will report to the Chief Legal Officer.

Requirements:

•  A minimum of 8-10 years of experience in the areas of transactional law with prior in-house biotech/pharma experience preferred.

For more information, click here.

Douglas County Kansas - Sustainability & Food Systems Analyst

Lawrence, KS

Description:

• This professional position carries out specialty assignments to strengthen the community-wide efforts towards sustainability initiatives and local food system development. Work performed includes project and program management (principally community garden coordination, Food System Plan implementation, and county recycling and energy monitoring), community engagement and stakeholder collaboration (including serving as staff liaison for the Food Policy Council), and policy research. This position works on complex issues and deals on a continuing basis with delicate, controversial, or confidential matters. This position may also do research and prepare reports. Work requires the exercise of initiative, independent judgment and discretion in various administrative duties. Problems and issues may be resolved at this level without reference to a higher authority, policies, or guidelines. This non-exempt position reports directly to the Sustainability Director for Douglas County and the City of Lawrence.

Duties:

• Monitor and manage key sustainability and local food system initiatives and indicators;
• Engage residents, and public, private, and non-profit stakeholders;
• Enhance knowledge, skills, and reputation of Sustainability Office and Douglas County;
• Research and advocate for integrated solutions in Douglas County through planning and policy development;
• Collaborate with local government and public agency staff to support implementation of sustainability in internal operations.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of sustainability, public administration, and County operations;
• Active learning and restorative problem solving;
• Great communication/facilitation skills;
• Initiative to assure multiple assignments are completed in a timely manner;
•  The ability to build authentic relationships (including with racially, ethnically, and socio-economically diverse and rural communities).

For more information, click here.

Department of Agriculture - Program Analyst

Alexandria, VA

Description:

• GS-13 Pay Scale
• This position is located in Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), Child Nutrition Programs (CNP). FNS serves as the Nation's first line of defense against hunger. Through the agency's nutrition assistance programs, FNS provides children and needy families' access to food and a more healthful lifestyle. FNCS Headquarters Offices provide the policies and regulatory support regarding the nutrition assistance program administrated through Congressional action.

Duties:

• Develop legislative proposals, regulations, handbooks, FNS instructions, and guidance material for use by State and local program administrators responsible for the administrative of an assigned area.
• Makes policy interpretations as appropriate to ensure operations of the Program in all areas occurs in an efficient and effective manner. Responds to inquiries from Regional Offices and other Federal agencies concerning Program policy.
• Provide guidelines to implement new policy, apply regulatory language to specific situations. Understand Program objectives, mgmt. philosophy, perspective, legislator history, and States and local agencies Program to recommend solutions.
• Participate in program reviews conducted by Regional offices, states and other program operators and contribute expert advice to review teams and reports of findings.
• Mastery of analytical and evaluative methods and techniques in order to define and address complex policy issues, effectively manage special projects, and resolve program operational problems.
• Highly developed writing skills in order to prepare policy documents and to effectively communicate and promote Agency policy objectives.

Requirements:

• To qualify for the GS-13 level, your resume must clearly demonstrate that you have one full year of specialized experience comparable in difficulty and responsibility to at least the GS-12 level in the federal service. Example of qualifying experience include the following types of tasks performed on a regular and recurring basis: 1) Develops and implements national policies, priorities and procedures for the administration of Federal nutrition assistance programs (or similar programs); 2) Mastery of analytical and evaluative methods and techniques in order to define and address complex policy issues, effectively manage special projects, and resolve program operational problems. 3) Highly developed writing skills in order to prepare policy documents and to effectively communicate and promote Agency policy objectives. 4) Develops training materials and conducts policy and program operational workshops; 5) Reviews and recommends appropriate action on State agency requests for waivers and deviations from Program requirements; and 6) Makes policy interpretations to ensure operation of the program occurs in an efficient and effective manner. Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including time-in-grade restrictions, specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.

• Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.

• Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

For more information, click here.

AALS Resources for Aspiring Law Teachers

Announcement from the Association of American Law Schools (AALS)  

AALS has launched a new website, Becoming a Law Teacher, to host resources related to entering the legal academy. We hope to bring transparency to law school hiring, including the increased demand for VAPs, fellowships, and doctoral degrees in the market.  We hold diversity among our core values and are committed to upholding excellence in legal education by empowering potential law faculty with information about pathways to teaching.

TerViva Bioenergy Inc. - In-House Intellectual Property Counsel

Oakland, CA

Description:

• TerViva is a fast-growing food and agriculture company, headquartered in Oakland, California, with significant operations in Florida, and offices, nurseries and tree farms in Hawaii and Australia. 
• TerViva is seeking an experienced intellectual property (“IP”) attorney to join our legal team, which includes both internal and outside counsel. We are at a pivotal time in the company’s journey, and the successful candidate will be a highly qualified and pioneering legal executive capable of guiding the business through an innovation transformation as the company develops its IP portfolio and related database platform. At this significant moment in TerViva’s history, the successful candidate will have an opportunity to be embedded in TerViva’s business units and influence the Company’s strategy and results.
• This position reports directly to the chief legal officer (“CLO”) and will work with TerViva’s legal team in these areas: developing TerViva’s global IP portfolio and related database platform, IP licensing, IP risk mitigation, industry standards development strategy, offensive/defensive IP assertion strategies and related projects, all manner of contract drafting including joint venture, strategic partnership, distribution and other commercial agreements, analysis and strategy development for contractual disputes, employee matters central to IP, negotiations and other related legal matters. 

Requirements:

• The successful candidate will have experience in and advise senior leadership on “all things IP”: the development and protection of TerViva’s intellectual assets and “crown jewels” that drive the Company’s growth, capitalization, revenue and profits; management of both strategic and NPE disputes; and external communities and ecosystems (trade associations, PTO relations, and common interest organizations). 
• It is preferred although not essential that this candidate will also have general transactional, real estate and agricultural law experience, particularly as it relates to IP. The selected candidate will work collaboratively with the legal team.

Duties:

• Perform a variety of complex and routine legal duties under the supervision of the CLO and other executives.
• Facilitate and where appropriate prepare corporate documentation relating to “all things IP” as they may relate to global expansion including affiliate and subsidiary incorporations, joint ventures, strategic partnerships, relationship and contract amendments, dissolutions, strategic mergers and acquisitions (including but not limited to IP due diligence), financings, tax and audit matters, share and asset transactions.
• Work with outside lawyers in a variety of disciplines in all TerViva and related geographies to attend to IP as it pertains to corporate, real estate, grower, oil purchase, off-take and related transactions, including filings and registration requirements related to same.
• Use relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether IP related events or processes comply with local, state and federal laws, regulations, or standards.
• Attend to contracts of a wide and diverse nature as they relate to IP including leases, easements, grower and tree purchase, oil and offtake, construction, government grant, contract research, nondisclosure, materials transfer, confidential information and invention assignment, consultancy and employment agreements.
• Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively and produce error-free documents.
• Draft, prepare, edit and proofread IP correspondence, contracts, documents and forms.
• Assist the CLO and outside counsel with a wide variety of IP matters including US Patent Office and international provisional, utility, design, method, composition, formula and PCT applications, copyright, trade secret, trademark and service mark applications, i.e., Transmittals, Declarations, Power of Attorneys, Assignments, Transmittals, Extensions of Time, Information Disclosure Statements, Maintenance Fee payments, Intellectual Property and Invention Handbooks and related Programs including but not limited to Trade Secret Programs, and related Intellectual Property Training and Invention Meetings and related matters.
• Handle administrative, confidential and sensitive company information.
• Conduct legal and business intelligence research using online resources.
• Actively provide back-up support to the CLO, executives, and manage others in accordance with TerViva’s standards and best practices.
• Address and advise on all legal matters for TerViva both proactively and as directed.
• Review, draft, edit and negotiate complex contracts, including but not limited to vendor agreements, purchase orders, material supplier contracts, material transfer agreements, non-disclosure agreements, employment agreements, license agreements, processing agreements and sales contracts.
• Collaboratively work with the legal team and outside counsel to develop IP portfolio, including assuring quality and establishing strategies for portfolio optimization in line with company objectives.
• Advising on, and collaborating with, our global technical community and senior leadership on intellectual property and related legal matters.
• Manage administration and resolution of IP legal issues throughout company departments and levels.

For more information, click here.

Agricultural Labor Relations Board - Attorney

Sonoma, CA

Description:

• Under general direction of the ALRB General Counsel and under the direct supervision of the Regional Director, prosecute violations of the Agricultural Labor Relations Act. This position is heavily concentrated around legal research and writing in support of prosecuting unfair labor practices; interviewing primarily non-English speaking parties and witnesses concerning alleged unfair labor practices at their work sites or homes. The position requires the ability to engage in complex legal research and analysis; draft complaints, subpoenas, briefs and other legal documents; prepare non-English speaking witnesses for hearings and prosecute cases before administrative law judges; conduct settlement negotiations; and seek injunctive relief in superior and appellate courts throughout California. Additionally, the incumbent will provide outreach and training to stakeholders.  

For more information, click here.

Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services - Agricultural Worker Project Legal Attorney

St. Paul, MN

Description:

• MRLS provides free, high-quality legal help in critical civil matters to low-income people in southern Minnesota, as well as to agricultural workers throughout Minnesota and North Dakota. For 110 years, SMRLS has helped individuals and families secure and protect their basic needs, maintaining freedom from hunger, homelessness, sickness, and abuse.

• AWP provides free, high-quality civil legal services to agricultural workers in Minnesota and North Dakota focused on improving clients’ working and living conditions through legal representation, outreach, and education. AWP advises and represents clients with cases involving wage theft, workplace health and safety violations, inadequate employer-provided housing, labor trafficking, employment discrimination or retaliation, H-2A contract violations, and other legal matters that specifically impact agricultural workers. AWP provides legal rights education to agricultural workers in Minnesota and North Dakota through extensive outreach and presentations to agricultural worker communities.

• AWP is looking for an experienced, ambitious, and visionary attorney to lead its team of dedicated staff attorneys and paralegals/outreach workers to address, resolve, and prevent the myriad legal issues that negatively impact the working and living conditions of agricultural workers. AWP currently has four permanent staff members in total between SMRLS’ offices in Moorhead, Minnesota and Saint Paul, Minnesota; the lead attorney will be responsible for providing leadership and support to the AWP staff in both offices. In addition to leading and managing the program and its staff, the lead attorney is expected to handle a limited but complex caseload, both independently and as co-counsel with other AWP staff.

Duties:

• Provide training, guidance, and supervision to AWP staff, including through co-counseling
• Independently handle a limited caseload including complex litigation in state and federal courts
• Guide AWP’s outreach and legal education efforts; directly provide outreach to agricultural workers on occasion
• Assess the legal needs of the client community, establish goals, and appropriately allocate AWP’s resources
• Collaborate with state and federal agencies and community partners on initiatives to improve the working and living conditions of agricultural workers
• Provide presentations and trainings to attorneys, agencies, community partners, and agricultural workers regarding AWP and agricultural worker legal rights
• Act as a member of coalitions, task forces, and other groups to advocate for agricultural workers
• Develop connections with the private bar for co-counseling and private attorney involvement purposes
• Track AWP outcomes and draft grant reports
• Supervise law students/temporary staff in addition to permanent staff on occasion
• Other responsibilities as determined by the needs of the program

Qualifications:

• Admission to the Minnesota and/or North Dakota bar, or eligibility for admission to either on motion without examination (admission to both states is needed).
• A minimum of five years of litigation experience preferred, primarily in employment law matters on behalf of agricultural workers or other low-wage workers
• Proficiency/fluency in Spanish is strongly preferred
• Demonstrated commitment to serving the needs of low-income and immigrant communities
• Ability to work with diverse groups and individuals with comfort and sensitivity
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including some evening outreach and limited overnight travel, in order to meet the needs of AWP’s client community
• Adaptability and flexibility; ability to handle a variety of responsibilities under pressure
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Google systems
• Possession of a current driver’s license

For more information, click here.

Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services - Staff Attorney

Saint Paul, MN

Duties:

• Resolve legal matters on behalf of agricultural worker clients through advice, negotiation, administrative advocacy, and state and federal litigation. 
• Conduct outreach with other AWP staff to agricultural workers throughout Minnesota from approximately May through October each year; one to two evenings of outreach each week is typical. 
• Provide legal rights presentations to agricultural workers and to the organizations that support them. Participate in case acceptance and other regular meetings with AWP staff. 
• Attend trainings and maintain current knowledge of laws impacting agricultural workers. 
• Supervise law students/temporary staff on occasion.

Qualifications:

• Admission to the Minnesota Bar, awaiting July 2018 exam results, or eligibility for admission on motion without examination. 
• 1-5 years of relevant experience is preferred; experience gained through law school clinics or legal internships will also be considered. 
• Fluent in spoken and written English and Spanish. 
• Ability to work with individuals from diverse economic, cultural, educational, and social backgrounds. 
• Demonstrated commitment to serving the needs of low-income communities, preferably agricultural workers specifically. 
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including some evening outreach and limited overnight travel, in order to meet the needs of AWP’s client community. 
• Strong oral and written communication skills. 
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Willingness to work as part of a team. 
• Ability to take initiative and independently handle a case load. 
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Google systems.

For more information, click here.

Aquatic Animal Law Initiative - Fellow

Portland, OR

Description:

• The fellow will report to the Clinic’s director, Kathy Hessler, and will work closely to support AALI and program innovation. This will include creative and high level case development and management, outreach efforts to stakeholder communities, and clinic and curriculum development. Responsibility for student oversight, and providing strategic leadership for growth and development, including fundraising, research and writing, case work, development and management. 
• Work with students. 
• Curriculum development and delivery. 
• Outreach to stakeholders. 

Qualifications:

• Must have Juris Doctorate degree. 
• Member of a Bar in good standing is essential. 
• Must have 2-5 years work experience in animal law, agricultural law, or environmental law (litigation experience preferred). 
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skill is essential. 
• Experience working with students is preferred.
• Additional experience working within the fields of science (biology, marine, fisheries), economics, international law, or agriculture is desired. 
• Website design or management experience is preferred. 
• The ideal candidate will start in August 2019, and commit to two years of work with AALI.

For more information, click here.

Rinke Noonan: Attorneys at Law - Environmental Litigation Attorney

Saint Cloud, MN

Description:

• The candidate will represent clients in the areas of agriculture, environmental, and natural resources law. May anticipate representing clients on a variety of litigation, regulatory, and transactional matters at the federal, state, and local level pertaining to conservation compliance and programs of the USDA, the Clean Water Act, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conservation easements, state public water and wetland conservation laws, local land use permitting and controls, and public drainage proceedings. May anticipate working with private landowners and local and special units of government clients on issues pertaining to the management of water quantity and quality. 

Qualifications:

• All levels of experience, including 2019 graduates, will be considered. Should have excellent interpersonal, analytical, and writing skills along with strong academic and professional credentials. Experience with the agricultural community, including demonstrated contact with farmers, landowners, or farm organizations is preferred. Intellectual curiosity and the desire to solve legal issues farmers experience is required. We anticipate the successful candidate will become licensed in Minnesota and North Dakota.

For more information, click here.

Twohig, Rietbrock, Schneider & Halbach Law Firm - Associate

Chilton, WI

Description:

• The candidate will join a business and transactional law team with a primary focus in agricultural law and representation of farm and agri-business clients. Should have strong academic credentials and excellent writing, communication and problem-solving skills. Must have a strong desire for a career in firm.

For more information, click here.

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition - Policy Director

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• The Policy Director, in conjunction with NSAC staff and member organizations, leads NSAC’s public policy work. The Policy Director represents the Coalition to policymakers and to the media, coordinates and oversees the policy development and advocacy work of the Coalition, leads and staffs the Policy Council, oversees all policy campaigns, and manages the policy team (currently 7 full-time policy staff). The Policy Director shares in the leadership of the organization along with the Grassroots Director and the Coalition Director. The Policy Director and Grassroots Director work together to develop campaigns and help ensure coordination and cohesion between NSAC’s direct and grassroots advocacy. The Policy Director and Grassroots Director report to the Coalition Director.

Duties:

• Policy and Strategy Development
• Advocacy and Coalition Building
• Communications and Fundraising
• Organizational Development

Qualifications:

• A strong understanding of sustainable food and agriculture policy – including federal policy related to conservation, environmental protection, beginning farmers, commodity, credit, and crop insurance programs, civil rights and underserved producers, rural development, agricultural research, food safety, climate change, local and regional food systems, and healthy food access.
• 7-10 years of policy experience, including experience advocating on Capitol Hill and within federal agencies. 
• Ability to lead and manage a team of seven policy specialists, and to work cooperatively.
• Ability to push incremental change with broader long-term goals in sight. 
• Ability to work well with decision makers of all political stripes, and a willingness to develop deep and lasting relationships with stakeholders and decision makers. 
• Strong experience writing policy papers, testimony, legislation, advocacy materials, and comments related to federal policy and rulemaking. 
• Ability to distill the interests and priorities of farmers and NSAC’s farm and food systems-based member organizations into a federal policy campaign, and to interpret policy language to understand how it will affect farmers on the ground. 
• Experience with large, multi-organization grassroots coalitions or networks and experience with grassroots advocacy campaigns. 
• Experience analyzing and advocating policy reform from a racial justice standpoint. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication and public speaking skills. 
• Obvious passion for NSAC’s mission and work. 
• Strong interpersonal skills, with strong ability to listen and to build trust among a wide range of constituents. 
• Willingness to work around a demanding congressional schedule and administrative deadlines. 
• Willingness to travel domestically several times per year. 

For more information, click here.

National Young Farmer's Coalition - Federal Policy Director

Washington, D.C.
Description:

• The National Young Farmers Coalition (Young Farmers) represents, mobilizes, and engages young farmers to ensure their success. Since our founding in 2010, we have launched 43 farmer-led chapters in 29 states and grown our grassroots based to 150,000. We give young farmers tools to become leaders in their communities, building an effective political voice at the local, state, and national level. Together, we tackle the most critical structural and economic barriers that prevent motivated young people from starting and growing successful farm businesses—including affordable farmland, student debt, climate change, healthcare and more. We have won historic investments in beginning farmer training, outreach to socially disadvantaged farmers, and farmland conservation. Our advocacy for a USDA Farm Service Agency microloan resulted in a loan program in every county that has served more than 30,000 farmers. 

Duties:

• Policy Strategy & Implementation (60%)
• Work with Young Farmers leadership and farmer members to develop an ambitious federal policy agenda and strategy. 
• Monitor and analyze federal legislation related to Young Farmers and proactively identify and pursue new policy opportunities.
• Develop and manage strategy to advance Young Farmers priorities in rulemaking and program implementation at USDA, as well as Department of Interior, FDA, Small Business Administration.
• Manage Young Farmers events in DC, including farmer fly-ins, Convergence, and Hill briefings.
• Develop relationships with and serve as primary liaison to legislative and executive branch staff and other governmental stakeholders.
• Work with Deputy Director to manage compliance for federal lobbying.
• Advise VP of Policy & Campaigns and regional staff on state policy campaigns and grassroots strategy. 
• Policy Development & Communications (20%)
• Work with Communications Director and Executive Team to produce Young Farmers’ policy communications including position statements and reports as well as language for online actions, social media, blogs, etc. 
• Conduct research and analysis to develop and support new and existing Young Farmers federal policy priorities.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the organization with press.
• Network & Coalition Building (15%)
• Build, manage, and participate in coalitions comprised of public, private, and non-governmental stakeholders across Young Farmers federal policy platform.
• Engage farmer members in opportunities to influence federal policy including fly-ins, Congressional hearings, press conferences, etc. 
• Funder Management (5%)
•  Engage and inform current and prospective funders on our federal policy work.
• Assist Development Director in cultivating new funders interested in supporting federal policy work.

Qualifications:

• The successful candidate will offer: 
• Knowledge of agricultural policy and the federal policy process, demonstrated by at least four years of experience in a policy role; 
• Experience crafting and implementing legislative campaigns; 
• The capacity to lead our DC team, partners, and stakeholders in common cause; 
• A demonstrated commitment to equity in the workplace and in advocacy work and demonstrated ability to recognize and address issues of racial privilege and discrimination; 
• Compelling skills as a speaker and writer; 
• Ability to work self-directed, but also be a strong team player; 
• Be willing and able to work on a flexible schedule with occasional travel; 
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment; 
• Be based in Washington, DC. 
• The ideal candidate may also: 
• Have experience working on a farm; 
• Have experience in non-profit fundraising; 
• Hold a relevant graduate degree in law, economics or policy.

Compensation:

• 70,000-75,000 based on experience; 
• Young Farmers offers a competitive benefits package, including health and dental insurance.

To apply, send a cover letter and a one-page resume with any salary requirement to jobs@youngfarmers.org. Please put “FEDERAL POLICY DIRECTOR” in the subject line. No calls, please. 

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: July 22nd. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) - Grassroots Fellow

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• NSAC is the leading advocacy organization for federal policy that supports sustainable agriculture and food systems. We work with our 100+ member organizations to empower grassroots voices – including farmers and eaters – for positive change. We work towards the vision of a safe, nutritious, and affordable food supply produced by diverse family farmers who make a decent living pursuing their trade, while sustaining the environment and contributing to the strength of their communities. 

Duties:

• Assisting NSAC’s staff, coalition members, Grassroots Council with national grassroots outreach campaigns using social media, email, and other advocacy tools; 
• Developing creative, impactful engagement tools for farmers and consumers – including digital and multimedia materials – around a range of issues and campaigns, including local and regional food systems, working lands conservation, beginning farmer issues, sustainable agricultural research, and much more; 
• Supporting NSAC’s Diversity Committee & furthering our racial equity efforts – assisting with monthly calls and other endeavors; 
• Assisting with planning and execution of NSAC events, including farmer/advocate lobby days in Washington, DC and the winter coalition membership meeting • Conducting research, analysis, and interviews to support advocacy campaigns; 
• Drafting blog posts, social media posts, advocacy messages, and other materials; 
• Assisting with other projects and assignments as needed.

Qualifications:

• An understanding of and passion for sustainable food and farms. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with community organizing and grassroots capacity building efforts. 
• Experience working with diverse communities & willingness to apply an equity lens. 
• Ability to both work independently and be a good team player.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to stay on task when managing multiple projects.
• Multimedia skills – including Adobe CreativeSuite and video development / editing (Final Cut Pro or equivalent) – a plus.

For more information, click here.

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) - Policy Fellow

Washington, D.C.

Description:

• NSAC is the leading advocacy organization for federal policy that supports sustainable agriculture and food systems. NSAC’s collaborative work environment offers a unique career opportunity to advance federal sustainable agriculture policy as part of a dedicated and effective team. The Policy Fellow will have the opportunity to work on a range of policy issues and campaigns, including: local and regional food systems, climate change and conservation, beginning farmers and farmers of color, food safety and labeling, sustainable agriculture research, and crop insurance reform. The Policy Fellow will have the opportunity to directly engage in NSAC’s ongoing work on implementation of the new farm bill, as well as other emerging legislative issues such as immigration reform and Child Nutrition Act Reauthorization.

Duties:

• Support policy staff with outreach and communication to Congressional offices and committees, and federal agencies and administrative officials.
• Represent NSAC at agency and coalition meetings, as well as Congressional hearings and briefings.
• Conduct research and data analysis to support program oversight and inform future policy development.
• Write in-depth policy blogs and reports, and contribute to Federal Register comments (as applicable).
• Develop and implement a long-term research or policy project (to be determined).
• Provide support for policy staff on monthly Issue Committee calls.
• Provide support for NSAC’s annual winter member meeting.
• Manage dissemination of NSAC’s Weekly Roundup policy newsletter.
• Work with NSAC staff on racial equity projects and initiatives.
• Provide support for incoming calls and other administrative duties.
• Assist with other projects and assignments as needed.

Qualifications:

• An understanding of and passion for sustainable agriculture.
• Basic knowledge of the federal policy-making process.
• An appreciation for how federal policies may affect different constituencies, including historically underrepresented communities, and willingness to apply an equity lens.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent research skills.
• Ability to both work independently and be a good team player.
• Willingness to work around a demanding congressional schedule and deadlines.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to stay on task when managing multiple projects.
• Familiarity with Dropbox, Google Suite, and WordPress a plus.

For more information, click here.

Community Food Systems Program Manager - UW-Madison

Madison, Wisconsin

Description:

•  The Community Food Systems Program Manager works with faculty, staff, and partners to develop needed community food systems program activities and manages the Community Food Systems Extension Program. This position manages and supports outreach educational programs designed to build the capacity of community residents, leaders, organizations and First Nations to build and enhance place-based food systems to improve community health and well-being.

Candidates should:

• Have a demonstrated record of interdisciplinary collaboration and using a systems approach to food systems efforts.
• Be able to serve rural and urban communities.
• Be able to coach Extension Educators in recognizing the historical context for racial inequities and its role in shaping impacts on food systems and communities. 
• Identify needs and develop plans to address the needs of diverse and underserved audiences and encourage/support outreach efforts for these audiences through an equity lens, with appreciation for the ways race and other identities intersect with community-based program efforts. 
• Have educational program development skills including planning and implementing programs, participatory and systems level evaluation, and communicating program impact and value to stakeholders.

For more information, click here.