NASDA NASS (National Agricultural Statistics Service) Associate Director - Great Lakes/North East

NASDA - National Association of State Departments of Agriculture; Arlington (VA); Remote; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization as an Associate Director in the NASS Program, leading a dedicated team to enhance agricultural data collection across multiple states. This full-time remote role offers the opportunity to shape HR practices and operational strategies while collaborating with various stakeholders. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership skills and a passion for agriculture, contributing to a meaningful mission that supports the agricultural sector. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, this position is perfect for those looking to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

PTO

401k with 4% match

Tuition reimbursement

Professional development

Employer-paid health benefits

Qualifications

• 3+ years in HR with payroll and recruiting experience.
• Leadership experience in field operations or surveys.

Responsibilities

• Lead recruitment and manage regional HR operations.
• Develop strategies for efficient data collection.

Skills

Human Resources Management

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Data Collection

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Cloud-based HR Systems

Remote Work Tools

Job description

Full Job Description

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) is seeking a passionate team member to join its National Agriculture Statistics Survey (NASS) cooperative agreements team as an Associate Director, NASS Program. This role involves leading a team across the states of CT, DE, DC, IN, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VT, VA, and WV.

The position will oversee transforming regional human resources and data collection operations for agricultural surveys, managing managers, coaches, trainers, and enumerators. The ideal leader will enhance the enumerator experience to ensure accurate and efficient data collection, embracing change and innovation. The role reports to NASDA's NASS Program Director and collaborates with other Associate Directors nationwide.

ABOUT NASDA

NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization representing state agriculture officials. It aims to strengthen American food and agriculture sectors through policy, partnerships, and public engagement.

We seek employees passionate about agriculture, committed to fostering a positive work environment where careers can thrive. NASDA offers a competitive salary, flexible schedules, and a meaningful mission.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The core responsibilities include:

Human Resources Leadership (50%)

• Collaborate with NASDA leadership to recruit regional managers, coaches, and trainers.
• Oversee regional leadership managing up to 375 part-time enumerators, ensuring high performance and policy adherence.
• Handle HR functions such as payroll, evaluations, and personnel actions.
• Ensure proper staffing, onboarding, and address personnel concerns.
• Promote positive relationships and a respectful work environment.
• Organize and oversee training for enumerators to maintain quality and consistency.
• Ensure compliance with anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies.

Operational Management (30%)

• Develop strategies to improve data collection quality and efficiency.
• Coordinate survey assignments and monitor progress.
• Manage budgets and work assignments aligned with financial goals.
• Communicate effectively with the team.
• Review vendor activities and collaborate with other Associate Directors to ensure operational consistency.

External Engagement Coordination (20%)

• Serve as liaison with NASS (USDA) teams for communication and collaboration.
• Maintain positive relationships with NASDA members to support enumerator work.
• Act as regional contact for agricultural industry partners as needed.

Additional details about the role are available here.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience.
• At least 3 years in human resources, including payroll and recruiting.
• Over 3 years in a leadership role, preferably in field operations or surveys.
• Experience managing agricultural operations or projects.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, cloud-based HR systems, and remote work tools.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work across organizational levels.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and travel regionally or nationally.
• Reside in one of the specified states or neighboring areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Over 5 years of HR experience, including performance reviews and onboarding.
• Over 5 years in a leadership role within a multi-level organization.
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and NASS surveys.
• Experience leading agricultural projects or developing educational workshops.

Candidates should address how their experience meets these qualifications in their cover letter and resume. Applications without these documents will not be considered.

INTERVIEW PROCESS

• Applications reviewed from 4/21/25 to 5/9/25.
• Interviews may occur between 5/5/25 and 5/23/25.
• Expected start date: 6/16/25.

SALARY

$85,000 - $100,000 annually, based on experience.

WORK SCHEDULE

Full-time, exempt remote position, generally Monday to Friday, 9 am - 5 pm local time.

BENEFITS

• PTO, 401k with 4% match, tuition reimbursement, professional development, and employer-paid health benefits.

NASDA is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, or other protected statuses.

You will need to pass a background check.