AGRI PROGRAM SPECIALIST

Position Number: 22087642 

County: Pulaski 

Posting End Date: Open Until Filled 

Anticipated Starting Salary: $36,155

Natural Resources 

Hiring Authority

Cone Building 1, Suite 300

10421 West Markham Street

Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone: 501/682-0556

Email: tate.wentz@agriculture.arkansas.gov

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Class Code: B147C

Grade: GS06

FLSA Status: EXEMPT

Salary Range: $36,155-$57,668

Summary

The Agri Program Specialist is responsible for administering agricultural, forestry or environmental programs. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.

Functions

Assists in developing, directing, and coordinating the implementation of state and federal programs. Manages program budgets and procures goods and services to meet objectives. Interprets policies, procedures, rules and regulations concerning agricultural, forestry or environmental programs. Provides information and technical assistance to local government officials and citizens. Conducts meetings and presents workshops to inform stakeholders of agency policy, best practices and state and federal grant programs. Performs grant administration duties consisting of grant application reviews, project performance and summary reports. Performs other duties as assigned.

Forestry Division – Reforestation: Assists with tree improvement and reforestation activities including progeny testing and grafting. Provides management and supervision. 

Forestry Division – Fire Weather: Monitors weather for high fire conditions and documents prescribed burning for 75 counties in the state. Assists with mapping of fires and serves as a backup dispatcher as needed. Works with federal agencies and state agencies on projects regarding the National Fire Danger Rating System.

Dimensions

This job may require frequent in-state travel.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of state and federal laws regulations and governing agriculture, forestry, and environmental programs.
• Knowledge of planning and analysis techniques and procedures.
• Ability to manage grant funded programs, monitor progress and meet desired objectives.
• Ability to develop and implement best management practices and provided technical assistance to a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Ability to conduct on-site inspections to determine compliance with standards, laws, and/or regulations, evaluate and document results, and recommend corrective actions.
• Ability to gather and analyze data and prepare reports.
• Ability to provide verbal and written information.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, forestry, environmental science, natural science, or a related field; plus, one year of experience in environmental regulation or related field. 

Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE

Licenses

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficient inn Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access.
• Basic understanding of agricultural, biological, or ecological systems.
• Experience in local, state, and federal water quality policy, guidance, regulations, and law.
• Ability to provide oral and written reports.
• Effective time management.
• Ability to complete complex assignments on tight deadlines.

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