The work we do matters!
Hiring Agency:
Agriculture - Agency 18
Location:
Lincoln Job Posting
Hiring Rate:
$22.686
Classification Salary Range:
$22.69 - $33.44
Job Posting:
JR2024-00006267 Program Specialist Food Safety (Open)
Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):
05-20-2024
Job Description:
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is seeking a self-motivated individual to oversee our Produce Safety Program as part of our Food Safety Team where our mission is to implement and enforce the sanitation and quality standards relative to the food industry through service, education, and regulation. This position is primarily responsible for continued development of Nebraska's Produce Safety Program but will also have the opportunity to support other aspects of our Food and Dairy Programs. Effective communication skills are a must as a successful candidate will partner efficiently with federal/state officials, academia, and the public. Our Food Safety Programs focus on outreach, education, and regulation as it relates to the evaluation of practices and the enforcement of related federal/state laws and regulations.
Look at what we have to offer!
• 13 paid holidays
• Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
• Military leave
• 156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee assistance program
• 79% employer paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations
• Fun, inviting teammates
• A safe and secure environment
At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!
Job duties
Partner with FDA, regional state programs, and the Food & Dairy Program Manager to coordinate program development and maintenance.
- Under FDA authority oversee and/or conduct Produce Inspections, partnering with growers for compliance with the Produce Safety Rule.
- Work collaboratively with peers to support other grant funded Food Safety Programs related to Manufactured Foods.
- Complete grant reports and other grant related documents.
- Coordinate necessary training for teammates assisting with inspections.
- Coordinate Produce Safety Alliance training for Nebraska Growers.
- Participate in educational opportunities including training and conferences.
- Other duties as assigned.
Requirements / Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree preferred in related area, or commensurate experience.
Preferred Qualifications: Degree in Agricultural Science, Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Health or a related field along with current or recent practical experience in a similar position related to a food or produce safety regulatory program.
Other: This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver's license or another form of reliable transportation.
Regular and reliable attendance is required.
Proficient computer skills, exceptional customer service, ability to communicate effectively (oral & written), able to complete FDA Commissioning/Credentialing, must have & maintain a valid driver's license Must be able to drive, bend, move over un-even terrain, occasionally work in hot and cold temperatures.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge, skills and abilities Knowledge of: food industry; the principles and techniques of inspections; Food Safety Modernization Act, Produce Safety Rule, Good Agriculture Practices Skill in: effective communication (oral & written), time management, planning and organization, problem-solving, critical thinking Ability to: establish rapport with stakeholders; communicate with the public and businesses; interpret and apply policies, procedures, and standards; make decisions and seek solutions; prioritize work in an efficient manner; compile and interpret data; occasional travel in and out of state
Benefits
We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! For more information on benefits currently offered to permanent teammates, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement
The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.
Current employees of the State of Nebraska should NOT apply on this external career. Instead go to Workday and access the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page.