Emerging Issues Specialist
Williston, VT
United States
Are you passionate about supporting multiple aspects of Vermont food and agriculture? Do you want to assist farmers and foresters recover from climate-related losses and prepare for the future? Do you thrive within a dynamic team that is helping the produce industry reach new markets and become more resilient?
The Agriculture Development Division seeks a skilled professional to serve as Emerging Issues Specialist. This position will split their time between two main programs: 1) supporting a federal grant that provides funding to farmers and foresters that had weather-related losses and 2) supporting the specialty crop industry, primarily focusing on produce industry expertise. The position will also support key emerging needs that will bolster a diverse and thriving agricultural landscape.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Support a team that administers the Vermont Agriculture and Timber Disaster Assistance program. This position will engage in education and outreach, respond to applicant inquiries, engage in site visit verification, and support the strategic direction of the multi-year grant program.
- Serve as produce industry specialist. This position will liaison with internal regulatory partners and external industry experts to keep a pulse on the produce industry's needs. Serving as subject matter expert, they will help guide statewide strategies for the produce industry.
- Manage annual projects that support the specialty crop industry. Self-directed projects will be on a 1-3 year cycle and could include scopes such as increasing access to wholesale markets or increasing participation in food safety certifications. This position will be responsible for managing federal project budgets and crafting project scopes.
- Support emerging issues that are critical to a thriving, diverse food system. Examples include education around Accessory On-Farm Business policy or administering statewide surveys for climate related events.
The Ideal Candidate
- Thinks holistically, responds creatively to emergent needs, and manages complex projects
- Thrives on meaningful collaboration with both internal and external partners
- Communicates clearly, especially with farmers and foresters
- Brings expertise of the produce industry, whether in production, processing, wholesale, retail, and/or the supply chain
- Holds food safety certifications or is excited to take these trainings
- Has a familiarity with Vermont's food and agriculture systems and service provider networks
- Has a familiarity with budgeting, federal funds, and/or statewide granting programs
Full position information available here: https://careers.vermont.gov/job/Williston-Emerging-Issues-Specialist-Limited-Service-VT/1433031400/
Minimum Salary: $31.54
Maximum Salary: $49.45
As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:
- 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Work/Life balance: 12 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
- State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
- Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Low cost group life insurance
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.
See job posting and apply via the State of Vermont's system: https://careers.vermont.gov/job/Williston-Emerging-Issues-Specialist-Limited-Service-VT/1433031400/