Organic Center of Excellence Program Manager (Administrative Officer 2)

at  Commonwealth of PA

THE POSITION

Are you someone who is dedicated, diligent, and eager to be part of a team that appreciates your efforts? The Department of Agriculture is currently looking for an Organic Center of Excellence Program Manager (Administrative Officer 2) to take charge of the Organic Center of Excellence. You will play a crucial role in driving Pennsylvania’s organic agriculture sector forward. Do not miss out on this thrilling opportunity to apply your expertise, knowledge, and abilities to make a difference! Apply now and take the next step in your career journey.

Individuals with the following experience are encouraged to apply:

• Advanced understanding of organic agriculture within the food system in Pennsylvania.
• Experience in strategic planning.
• Solid communication and presentation skills.
• Experience working with various stakeholder groups.
• Experience managing multiple concurrent or consecutive projects including grant funded projects.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

In this role, you will spearhead the Organic Center of Excellence, focusing on enhancing Pennsylvania’s influence, development, and leadership in organic agriculture. Your responsibilities will encompass the creation and execution of strategic plans for the Center, which involves monitoring data, evaluating results, and providing recommendations for initiatives and programs that align with the Center’s objectives, in collaboration with the advisory board, departmental leaders, and stakeholders. You will manage the Organic Advisory Board, overseeing its administration, meeting logistics, agendas, and outcomes. Additionally, you will oversee financial and technical assistance programs aimed at supporting organic agricultural entrepreneurs in accessing various business support services, including business planning, financial literacy, marketing strategies, farm transition planning, consulting, and other resources. You will also cultivate relationships and manage contracts with service providers to ensure timely service delivery, accurate invoicing, and payments, while offering feedback to optimize return on investment and impact. Furthermore, you will administer the Organic Cost Share Reimbursement program in compliance with USDA regulations.
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:

• One year as an Administrative Officer 1. or
• Three years of experience in progressively responsible and varied office management or staff work, including experience in personnel management, budgeting, or procurement; and a bachelor’s degree; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training.

Additional Requirements:

• Experience transitioning either a farm or manufacturing/processing facility to organic.
• Demonstrated history of leadership ability.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (NOT REQUIRED):

• Five or more years of experience in the organic agriculture industry.
• Two or more years of experience working with boards or commissions.
• Two or more years of experience working within, or developing a strategic plan.
• Two or more years of experience leading startups.

Please refer the Job description for details