AG DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

The North Dakota Department of Agriculture is hiring an Ag Development Specialist to advance our mission of serving, advocating for, protecting, and promoting agriculture.

Our commitment includes supporting agriculture through diversity, innovation, research, and trade. We offer a competitive benefits package that features fully paid family health insurance, paid leave, paid holidays, a retirement plan, and a flexible work schedule.

Salary : $5,500 - $5,800 per month, plus benefits including fully paid family health insurance.

As an Ag Development Specialist, you'll be instrumental in overseeing and advancing the Bioscience Innovation grant programs aimed at fostering the growth of the bioscience sector in North Dakota.

You'll also be responsible for managing and promoting the Agriculture Diversification and Development Fund Grant Program, which supports new and expanding value-added agriculture businesses, generates jobs, and strengthens the state's economy.

Additionally, you'll oversee the Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program, providing grants to political subdivisions for roadway and bridge enhancements and to entities for utility upgrades essential for supporting value-added agriculture businesses.

• Manage monthly data entry and track grant expenditures.
• Review and approve grant-related payment requests, bills, and invoices.
• Conduct statewide site reviews to verify grant projects.
• Close grant-funded projects in accordance with department processes and timelines.
• Oversee monthly financial reports in coordination with the fiscal division, make necessary corrections to grant-related income and revenue, and communicate changes to the fiscal division.
• Maintain financial records in compliance with state records management guidelines.
• Assist with various Business, Marketing, and Informational duties and programs, including POD holiday showcases as assigned.

This position reports to the Ag Business Development Coordinator but will also support the Commissioner in coordination with the Business, Marketing, and Information Division.

Given the need for frequent on-site presence, this role is based in Bismarck at the State Capitol.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Agribusiness, Biology, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, or a closely related field.
• Proficiency in business plans and financial statements, including spreadsheets, profit & loss statements, and financial protection.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Valid Class D driver's license for in-state travel to conduct on-site reviews.
• Willingness to travel occasionally both within and outside the state during weekdays and weekends for site visits, conferences, continuing education, and POD showcases.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Experience working with agriculture producers, commodity groups, processors, community leaders, and economic development officials.
• Proven experience in promoting or marketing agriculture-related products.
• Familiarity with the state and national livestock industry.
• Knowledge or practical experience in various aspects of livestock production.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategies, programs, and projects to advance and expand the livestock industry.

Application Procedures :

Applicants must submit their online application at www.nd.gov / careers before the closing date by 11 : 59 PM. The application must include a resume, cover letter, and college transcript(s) (official or unofficial).

The cover letter should detail how you meet the position's qualifications, including relevant education, work experience, and skills.

Due to access of restricted information, the successful candidate will be required to complete a satisfactory criminal background check.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; sponsorships are not available.

For additional information about the position or assistance with the application or interview process, please contact Shelley Theisen at (701) 328-4757 or 1-800-242-7535.

About Team ND

Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing. - Theodore Roosevelt

More than 7,500 talented, hard-working people across sixty-three agencies have come together as Team North Dakota. At Team ND, we are driven to succeed through gratitude, humility, curiosity and courage.

Our purpose is to empower people, improve lives, and inspire success. Join us in being legendary.

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Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. 23-12-10.