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 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 directly to the Ag Business Development Coordinator and also provides support to the Commissioner in collaboration with the Business, Marketing, and Information Division. Due to the need for regular on-site presence, the position is based in Bismarck at the State Capitol.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Agribusiness, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated proficiency in analyzing business plans and financial statements, including spreadsheets, profit and loss statements, and financial safeguards.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Possession of a valid Class D driver's license, with the ability to travel in-state for on-site reviews.
• Willingness to travel occasionally, both in-state and out-of-state, including weekdays and weekends, for site visits, conferences, continuing education, and POD showcases.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience collaborating with agricultural producers, commodity groups, processors, community leaders, and economic development professionals.
• Demonstrated success in promoting or marketing agriculture-related products.
• Familiarity with both state and national livestock industries.
• Knowledge of, or hands-on experience in, various aspects of livestock production.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategies, programs, or projects aimed at advancing and expanding 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.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The Department of Agriculture does not provide sponsorships.

Applicants experiencing technical difficulties during the application process are encouraged to contact recruiter@nd.gov or call 701-328-3290. For additional information, or if you require accommodation or assistance with the application process, please contact Shelley Theisen, Human Resource Officer, at 701-328-4757 or toll-free at 1-800-242-7535.

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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. Sect. 23-12-10.