Agriculture Promotion Marketing and Communications Specialist III at State of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska

Job Description:

Description
Do you thrive in a team environment? Are you looking to make an impact? The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is looking for a Promotion Marketing and Communications Specialist III. As an Agriculture Promotion Marketing and Communications Specialist III, you will perform planning, promotional activities, reporting and data management, partnership development, research, and general related work as required to support the promotion, development, and growth of Nebraska agriculture.


This candidate will be under the general supervision of the Deputy Director and/or Program Manager. This work will include but is not limited to building partnerships and working in collaboration with partners to expand and attract new agricultural businesses, especially related to livestock production and value-added agricultural opportunities.


Before we dive into what we need, let us show off what you get!
• 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!


Location: 245 Fallbrook Blvd STE 200 Lincoln, NE 68521


Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Examples of Work
Provide project leadership, strategic direction, and implementation of multiple strategies to drive economic development and marketing, for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness.
Commitment to counties to modernize and streamline county zoning programs to provide opportunities to grow agriculture.


Domestic marketing of Nebraska agriculture products, including trade shows, events, and coordination with partners.


Work with in-state processors, plants and placement of both, to help ensure agriculture production development for Nebraska.


Grant preparation and implementation. Engagement, communication, and collaboration with advisory, policy, and commodity groups to promote, grow, and defend Nebraska agriculture, including APD strategy for connecting with all of Nebraska agriculture.


Responsible for statewide general outreach, economic development, and speaking engagements on topics pertaining to agriculture product development, value chain coordination, livestock siting, and development promotion.


Point of contact for DBIA Regional Grant, NDID, NPI/PED, and Aquaculture Board, work with these entities to grow the program and foster partnerships.
Develop professional relationships and provide basic consultation and technical assistance to local communities, counties, agribusinesses, and commodity and community organizations; serve as a resource connecting local, state, and federal entities as applicable to contribute to the expansion and promotion of agribusiness and private farmers and ranchers in Nebraska.


Management of implementation, data collection, funding, and contracts, as well as serving as the point of contact for:
Assist the Director and Deputy Director with research and prepare timely, strategic messaging for important topics in coordination with the Communications team. Serves as a liaison between the agency and other state/federal agencies as needed, as well as other agriculture industry organizations. Involves travel, occasionally overnight. Other duties as assigned within the scope of the classification.
Qualifications / Requirements
REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, marketing, public relations, advertising, graphic arts, digital media, videography, or related field and at least three years' experience in developing, planning, and managing public relations/publicity campaigns, mass media communication activities, public information programs, and/or marketing/promotional campaigns. Required experience may substitute for the education on a year for year basis.


PREFERRED: A Bachelor of Science in an agriculture-related or marketing field are preferred. Bilingual: Spanish Speaking. Grant Writing Experience. Outstanding leadership skills as demonstrated by roles in college, career, and/or community activities.


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.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of, and/or experience in, the agriculture industry. Candidates should have demonstrated ability in problem solving, strategic thinking, communication, have strong relationship-building skills, and demonstrate success with project execution/management of multiple tasks/campaigns simultaneously.


Cultivate a culture of collaboration with state and local leaders and community members that builds positive relationships between the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and Nebraska Citizens. Partner with state and regional agriculture professionals to further enhance the positive message of Nebraska agriculture. Strong multi-tasking, project management and prioritization skills.


Demonstrated ability to communicate in individual and team settings both in person and virtually (i.e., research, writing, presentations, web, promotional events, and social media).
Knowledge and experience working in sales and promotions.


Experience working with individuals, coworkers, and teams to accomplish individual and/or group goals, as evidenced by college, career, and/or community activities.