DFA Energy Program Manager

As caretakers of animals and the land, sustainability isn't just an initiative for our farmers – it's a way of life and a responsibility to future generations. At Dairy Farmers of America, we are constantly focused on finding new, innovative ways to conserve resources, reduce waste and work efficiently — on farms, in plants and on the road. We are committed to developing solutions and sharing them with others in order to give farm families the opportunity to work the same land for years to come.

Position Overview:

The DFA Energy Program Manager will coordinate and support DFA Energy initiatives, a DFA Farm Services program for farmer-owners to access renewable energy programs for their farms. Work cross-functionally to identify and pursue projects that enhance farmer-owner economic and sustainability goals and enhance engagement with members, employees, and customers of DFA.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with multiple departments in support of DFA renewable energy and sustainability goals
• Provide project collaboration and support for renewable energy projects on member farms. Projects may include, but not be limited to:
• Solar panels
• Wind turbines
• Anaerobic digesters, including projects incorporating food waste as a feedstock
• Farm energy audits
• Work collaboratively with Area Membership staff, Sustainability team and Farm Services' teams to support alignment and project goals on behalf of farmer-owners
• Support collaborative industry relationships that focus on renewable energy opportunities
• Provide direction and oversight for DFA approved vendors for energy programs with DFA farmer-owners
• Support and represent DFA's Energy team as needed including travel to member farms and DFA plant locations to assist on projects in collaboration with various DFA approved vendors
• Identify opportunities related to renewable energy and energy efficiency that would benefit our farmer-owners or DFA facilities
• Track projects, gather data and report analysis in collaboration with Sustainability and other DFA stakeholders
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.Other duties may be assigned as required

Requirements:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in business management, agriculture, sustainability, or other related field(s)
• Advanced Degree preferred
• 5 -10 years of related experience
• Multi-faceted understanding of the dairy industry and working knowledge of dairy farm operations
• Strong business acumen with understanding and experience in agriculture and food processing sectors
• An agricultural or farm background is helpful
• Certification and/or License – None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Act in a professional manner, demonstrating strong presentation skills
• Demonstrate excellence in questioning, listening, and influencing
• Able to serve as a subject matter expert for energy related topics
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, for a diverse range of internal and external audiences
• Demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to grow beyond this role
• Able to take initiative in performing job and seek increased responsibilities and opportunities
• Must be able to navigate typical farm terrain and plant operating environment
• Working proficiency with MS Office Suite and Salesforce CRM software
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

Note: Travel: 25% - 50% (up to 1 week per month)

An Equal Opportunity Employer