LOCAL FOOD and FOOD LABELING SPECIALIST (Guthrie Agricultural Center, Guthrie, WV)

WV Department of Agriculture•Charleston, WV

About The Position

The Local Food and Food Labeling Specialist is responsible for reviewing and approving product labels for WV producers to ensure general compliance with applicable U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations and WV standards. This position coordinates with WVDA Business Development and Regulatory and Environmental Affairs (READ) Divisions, WV Department of Health, county health departments, and producers throughout the state to verify that all product labeling that is sent to WVDA is compliant with ingredient lists, statement of identity, allergens and net contents. The Local Food and Food Labeling Specialist plays a critical role in helping producers bring compliant, clearly labeled products to market efficiently and responsibly. In addition, the position may assist in promoting local agricultural products, connecting farmers and agribusinesses to new market opportunities, and providing education and training on business development and product marketing. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated, detail-oriented professional who is passionate about advancing West Virginia agriculture and enhancing the visibility and profitability of local producers.

Requirements

Strong verbal and written communication skills, including delivering presentations to a variety of audiences (vendors, farmers’ markets, schools, and/or professional or community organizations).
Well-organized and able to manage multiple responsibilities with attention to detail.
Strong record-keeping and documentation skills.
Ability to understand and apply relevant federal and state laws, policies, and regulations.
Ability to work independently
Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and data management.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution in agriculture, agribusiness, marketing, food systems, or a closely related field.
1-2 years of experience in office administration, food processing, sales, marketing, or related fields
Valid driver’s license is required.
Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

Responsibilities

Review and approve product labels for general compliance with FDA and USA regulations, including ingredient and identity statements, allergen declarations, and net contents.
Coordinate with internal staff, health dept staff and producers to collect necessary documentation (e.g., process authority, etc.).
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory changes affecting labeling requirements and proactively communicate updates to others.
Manage label approval workflows and ensure timely responses to label review requests.
Assist in developing and maintaining internal labeling guidelines and SOPs.
Partner with food vendors to conduct food labeling compliance reviews, maintaining thorough records for each review.
Provide educational support to home-based processors and micro-processors selling directly to consumers.
Serve as a liaison between the Department of Agriculture and producers, businesses, and industry stakeholders to promote the WV Grown program and increase domestic market opportunities.
Identify barriers in the agricultural value chain and help producers develop strategies to enter and thrive in new markets (e.g., trade shows, "market-ready" trainings).
Support the implementation and ongoing administration of WV Grown marketing and training initiatives, including maintaining databases (Microsoft Excel), developing professional presentations (PowerPoint), and performing general administrative tasks.
Collect and analyze data to demonstrate qualitative program results and showcase the impact to West Virginia agricultural operations.
Assist with the creation and distribution of marketing materials such as brochures, pamphlets, and promotional booklets.
Research, design, and implement new tools and resources to assist agribusiness owners in navigating state regulations, legislative updates, and business development processes.
Plan and coordinate professional networking events and buyer showcases to connect WV Grown producers with potential customers in and out of state.
Interpret and communicate WV Grown requirements and benefits to stakeholders through advertising campaigns, educational materials, and promotional events
Perform additional duties as assigned in support of division goals and department initiatives.