Emerging Issues Specialist - Limited Service

Civicworks; Williston (VT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Civicworks seeks an Emerging Issues Specialist to support Vermont's Agriculture Development Division overseeing disaster assistance for farmers and foresters, plus guidance for statewide produce strategies. The role includes managing 1-3 year specialty crop projects and addressing emerging needs for a diverse food system.

The candidate should have extensive experience in agriculture, produce industry knowledge, and familiarity with Vermont's food systems, along with budgeting and grant program

Qualifications

• Five or more years combined education and experience in agriculture, environmental conservation, marketing, economics, or related field, including one year program coordination experience
• One year of experience as an Agriculture Development Specialist II in Vermont State service (alternative qualification)
• Expertise in produce industry (production, processing, wholesale, retail, or supply chain)
• Familiarity with Vermont's food and agriculture systems and service provider networks
• Experience with budgeting, federal funds, and statewide granting programs
• Food safety certifications or willingness to pursue them

Skills

Agriculture

Environmental conservation

Marketing

Economics

Program coordination

Produce industry knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in agriculture or related field

Job description

The Emerging Issues Specialist supports Vermont's Agriculture Development Division across two main areas: administering a federal disaster assistance program for farmers and foresters affected by weather-related losses, and serving as a produce industry specialist to guide statewide strategies. The role also manages specialty crop projects on a 1-3 year cycle and addresses emerging needs critical to a thriving, diverse food system.

Key qualifications:

• Five or more years combined education and experience in agriculture, environmental conservation, marketing, economics, or related field, including one year program coordination experience
• One year of experience as an Agriculture Development Specialist II in Vermont State service (alternative qualification)
• Expertise in produce industry (production, processing, wholesale, retail, or supply chain)
• Familiarity with Vermont's food and agriculture systems and service provider networks
• Experience with budgeting, federal funds, and statewide granting programs
• Food safety certifications or willingness to pursue them