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The Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for ourAgricultural Science Specialistwith a focus on organic production and handling. Applicants from Helena, Bozeman, Billings, Havre, and Lewistown areas are encouraged to apply. Position is open until filled with first review of candidatesOctober 14, 2024. The Montana Department of Agriculture is serving Montana Agriculture and growing prosperity under the Big Sky. The Agricultural Sciences Division provides agricultural producers and consumers, commodity and environmental protection through the administration of the Montana laws and rules in the areas of pesticides, groundwater monitoring, noxious weed control, feeds, fertilizers, seed, anhydrous ammonia, grain commodity dealers, commodity warehousemen, nurseries, produce, mint, honey bees, alfalfa leaf cutting bees and other services including organic certification, pest management consulting, laboratory analysis, pest surveys, export certification and quarantines. * Job Overview:* Applicants rarely are experienced in all of the position duties. With a background in environmental science or agriculture, the chosen candidate will be trained for the position duties. The agricultural specialist provides expertise in organic crop production, handling, processing, and certification. This position is responsible for conducting organic inspections; reviewing inspection reports; preparing certification recommendations; issuing non-compliance notices and other enforcement actions; reviewing non-compliance responses, making non-compliance resolution determinations and preparing non-compliance resolution letters and documentation; conducting retail establishment inspections to ensure compliance with certification requirements; providing education and technical assistance to organic producers and handlers; provide information for organic cost-share program requests. As an Agricultural Science Specialist, you will: * Plan, prepare, and implement inspections for agricultural programs. * Maintain standard operating procedures, manuals, reports, data, and other relevant documentation for agricultural programs and operations. * Coordinate communications and technical support services between agricultural program staff, inspectors, clients, community organizations, and the public. * Respond to inquiries about agricultural programs and requirements. * Conduct plant and soil research, investigations, and prepare reports. * Prepare and deliver training courses, seminars, and workshops for agricultural program topics. * Create and interpret laws, policies, procedures, and rules for agricultural programs and operations. * Provide the results of regulatory, research, and agricultural projects to other professionals and the public. * As subject-matter expert, provide guidance and consultation for disputes and initiatives. Physical and Environmental Demands: * Exposure to conditions and/or chemicals common to agriculture and animals. * May work with hazardous chemicals. * Frequently works outside in varying terrain and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions. * May work long, irregular hours. * Ability to manage, mediate, and handle confrontational situations that often result from the regulatory nature of the positions. * Some work conditions require protective clothing and/or a respirator. * Ability to lift 50lbs. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Knowledge of the concepts, theories, principles, and practices of agricultural science, including crop and livestock production; soil and plant management; crop nutrition; and organic production, handling, and processing. * Knowledge of the principles, methods and techniques of field data surveying and sampling for prohibited substances, inspection and investigation methods and procedures, and organic certification laws and standards. * Knowledge of project planning and management; and a general knowledge of trends and issues affecting Montana’s agriculture and livestock industry. * Knowledge of inspection procedures, standard operating procedures, case development and enforcement/regulatory processes and procedures. * Knowledge of the Montana Organic Certification Act, Montana Code Annotated (MCA) 80-11-601 and 602 and the associated Administrative Rules of Montana; and National Code of Organics 7CFR 205 and associated guidance documentation issued by the USDA NOP. * Skills in interpreting and applying rules and regulations as they apply to the program. * Skills in translating complex technical and scientific information to broad audiences and coordinating programs involving people with diverse backgrounds, private businesses, members of the public, and others. * Ability to maintain and handle confidential information and data. * Ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically both verbally and in writing. * Initiative to work in a self-directed and proactive manner. * Solution driven and ability to problem solve. * Ability to maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. * Ability to handle competing priorities with sensitive time frames while completing high-quality work. * Strong computer skills including MS Office programs and database software. Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor’s degree in animal science, plant science, agricultural science, environmental science, or closely related field. * Two years of job-related work experience. * Valid driver’s license. * Other combinations of education or experience may be substituted. Preferred: * Organic inspecting experience. Benefits: Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation package! Upon date of hire, employees working at least half-time for more than six months are eligible for state paid premiums toward employee “core” medical, dental, and basic life insurance coverage. Employees earn 15 working days of annual leave, 12 days of sick leave and 10-11 paid holidays each year. Membership in a Retirement System - vesting criteria applies. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF. *Title: *Agricultural Science Specialist Location: Helena Requisition ID: 24142626 Other Locations: Billings, Lewistown, Bozeman, Havre

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