Application guide

How to apply for Sr. Specialist, Sustainability Services (Regenerative Agriculture and Climate)

Winrock International

About Winrock International

Winrock International is a nonprofit leader in sustainable development, known for bridging science, policy, and on-the-ground implementation to tackle global challenges in agriculture, environment, and social equity. Working here means contributing to innovative, evidence-based solutions that improve livelihoods and ecosystems, often in partnership with diverse stakeholders from smallholder farmers to multinational corporations. The organization's strong reputation in climate-smart agriculture and regenerative practices makes it an ideal place for professionals passionate about food systems transformation.

About the role

As a Sr. Specialist in Sustainability Services, you will be a key technical advisor to food, land, and agriculture (FLAG) clients, helping them measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate change, and adopt regenerative agriculture practices across global supply chains. This role is impactful because it directly informs corporate sustainability strategies and on-the-ground interventions that can sequester carbon, enhance resilience, and improve agricultural productivity. You'll collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to translate science into actionable business solutions.

A typical day

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with clients to discuss their sustainability goals, analyzing data to quantify emissions reductions, and developing tailored recommendations for regenerative practices. You could also collaborate with Winrock colleagues on proposal development or research new methodologies to enhance service offerings. The remote nature allows for flexibility, but you'll frequently engage with stakeholders across time zones.

Who Winrock International is looking for

  • 5+ years of experience in agricultural sustainability, climate mitigation/adaptation, or regenerative agriculture, ideally within a consulting, NGO, or corporate sustainability context.
  • Strong technical expertise in GHG accounting methodologies (e.g., GHG Protocol, SBTi, LCA) and climate-smart agriculture practices, with familiarity in global supply chains.
  • Proven ability to manage client relationships and deliver advisory services, including project management and stakeholder engagement.
  • Excellent communication skills to translate complex scientific concepts into practical guidance for diverse audiences, from farmers to executives.

Tips for this application

  • Highlight specific experience with FLAG sector clients and quantify outcomes (e.g., 'helped 10,000 farmers adopt cover crops, reducing emissions by X%').
  • Emphasize familiarity with Winrock's existing projects and methodologies, such as the American Carbon Registry or their work in regenerative agriculture, to show alignment.
  • Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description like 'GHG measurement', 'regenerative agriculture', 'climate adaptation', and 'supply chains'.
  • If you reside in one of the preferred states, mention it in your cover letter to demonstrate location fit for the remote role.
  • Use your cover letter to articulate a clear vision for how you would help Winrock expand its sustainability services, referencing their mission and values.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your hands-on experience in developing and implementing GHG monitoring plans for agricultural supply chains, with specific examples of tools or frameworks used.', 'A track record of advising clients on regenerative agriculture transitions, including challenges and successes in diverse geographies.', 'Your ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and clients, highlighting any experience in a remote or matrixed environment.', "Your passion for Winrock's mission and a clear understanding of how this role contributes to their broader environment and climate goals."]

Research before applying

  • Explore Winrock's Environment and Climate portfolio, especially their work in regenerative agriculture and climate resilience, to understand their approach and key projects.
  • Review the American Carbon Registry (ACR), a Winrock initiative, to familiarize yourself with their standards and methodologies for carbon offset projects.
  • Research recent publications or reports from Winrock on FLAG sector climate strategies to speak knowledgeably about their thought leadership.
  • Look into the backgrounds of the Sustainability Services team on LinkedIn to understand their expertise and potential synergies.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

  • How would you approach measuring GHG emissions in a complex agricultural supply chain with limited data?
  • Describe a time you advised a client on adopting regenerative practices. What were the barriers and how did you overcome them?
  • What emerging trends in climate-smart agriculture do you think Winrock should incorporate into its services?
  • How do you ensure that sustainability recommendations are both scientifically sound and practically feasible for farmers?
  • Give an example of how you've managed multiple client projects simultaneously while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Submitting a generic resume that doesn't explicitly connect your experience to regenerative agriculture and GHG measurement in supply chains.
  • Failing to demonstrate an understanding of Winrock's nonprofit, mission-driven context and treating the role as purely commercial consulting.
  • Neglecting to mention any experience with global or diverse agricultural systems, as the role emphasizes global supply chains.

Deadline

No deadline is listed. Roles without a deadline usually close once the employer has enough candidates, so apply soon if you are interested.