Agriculture Program Specialist

State of Nebraska • Lincoln, NE

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is currently seeking a Program Specialist to join their team. Under general supervision from the Deputy Director, performs planning, promotional activities, reporting and data management, partnership development, research, and general related work as required to support the promotion, development, and growth of Nebraska agriculture. This work will include but is not limited to building partnerships and working collaboratively with partners to support and advance Nebraska’s agricultural and food businesses.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in related area, or commensurate experience.
• Regular and Reliable attendance is required.
• This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver's license or another form of reliable transportation.
• A working knowledge of, and/or experience in, the agriculture industry.
• Demonstrated ability in problem solving, strategic thinking, communication, have strong relationship-building skills, and demonstrate success with project execution/management of multiple tasks/campaigns simultaneously.
• Strong multi-tasking, project management and prioritization skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate in individual and team settings both in person and virtually (i.e., research, writing, presentations, web, and social media).
• Experience working with individuals, coworkers, and teams to accomplish individual and/or group goals, as evidenced by college, career, and/or community activities.
• Cultivate a culture of collaboration with state and local leaders and community members that builds positive relationships between the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and Nebraska Citizens.
• Partner with state and regional agriculture professionals to further enhance the positive message of Nebraska agriculture.

Nice To Haves

• A Bachelor of Science in an agriculture-related or marketing field are preferred.
• Bilingual: Spanish Speaking
• Grant Writing Experience
• Outstanding leadership skills as demonstrated by roles in college, career, and/or community activities.

Responsibilities

• Support the NDA Director and Deputy Director as needed with APD projects.
• Provide project leadership, strategic direction, and implementation of multiple strategies to drive agricultural growth and development, including market research for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses.
• Committees and Event Planning, including start to finish project management. Governor’s Ag and Economic Development Summit, National Ag Week, Husker Harvest Days, State Fair, etc.
• APD Contact Management.
• Workshops and Programs as assigned.
• Documentation of agency wide trade show participation. Domestic marketing of Nebraska agriculture products, including trade shows, events, and coordination with partners. National Restaurant Association Show, Americas Food and Beverage Show, etc.
• Nebraska Local Food Collaborations: Engagement, communication, and collaboration with agriculture partners to promote, grow, and defend Nebraska agriculture, including APD strategy for connecting with all of Nebraska agriculture.
• Provide support, reporting, and data management assistance for NDA programs, including but not limited to: Specialty Crop Block Grant Programs, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
• Grant preparation, implementation, and reporting to Board Management: Nebraska Craft Brewery Board, Nebraska Grape and Winery Board, Others.
• Market Research for International Trade.
• In collaboration with the NDA Communications Team, provide management of implementation, data collection, funding, and contracts, as well as serving as the point of contact for: Nebraska Agriculture Promotional Materials o APD Website Content.
• All other duties assigned within the scope of the classification.

Benefits

• 13 paid holidays
• Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
• Military leave
• 156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee assistance program
• 79% employer paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations
• Fun, inviting teammates
• A safe and secure environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level