Farmland Preservation Program Specialist
Posted 23 days ago
Farmland Preservation Program Specialist
State Agriculture Development Committee - New Jersey (Trenton)
STARTING SALARY: $51,479.83 6 MONTH INCREASE: $53,807.27 12 MONTH INCREASE: Candidate moves into the next Civil Service title after 12 months with a starting salary of $58,222.21 with annual increase as per the union contract 35-hour work week, excellent benefits, 13 paid holidays, hybrid work environment Under the close supervision of a supervisory official within the State Agricultural Development Committee (SADC), the selected candidate will receive comprehensive training to become an integral part of our dynamic and seasoned Farmland Preservation Team. This role involves providing essential program support for the New Jersey Farmland Preservation Program (FPP), learning to manage application processes, and assisting in the planning, operation, implementation, and evaluation of preservation priorities. Core responsibilities include performing research; interpreting complex legal and real estate documents and data; identifying program needs; reviewing and preparing grant applications; assisting in the preparation of educational and procedural materials related to program functions, statutes, policies, and regulations; and coordinating with local county agricultural development boards, Municipal Agriculture Advisory Committees, and nonprofit entities. This position requires meticulous organization, the ability to prioritize work effectively, and the capacity to perform essential outdoor fieldwork assessing farmland and consulting with owners/operators to provide meaningful guidance tailored to their business needs. NOTE: The ideal candidate will have experience in land preservation, strong communication skills for engaging with a wide range of audiences, and the ability to work effectively in both office and varying outdoor conditions.
Required Qualifications:
NOTE: Applicants must meet one of the following or a combination of both experience and education. Thirty (30) semester hour credits are equal to one (1) year of relevant experience. EDUCATION: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree. FOREIGN DEGREES: Degrees and/or transcripts issued by a college or university outside of the United States must be evaluated by a reputable evaluation service at your expense. This evaluation must be included with your submission and failure to submit the required evaluation may result in an ineligibility determination. OR EXPERIENCE: Four (4) years of professional experience relevant to the position. NOTE: "Professional experience" refers to work that is analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range of basic knowledge of the profession's concepts and practices; and is performed with the authority to act and make accurate and informed decisions.