Job Specification Details

Administrative, planning, and technical work involving regulatory, enforcement, and technical assistance programs and activities in the areas of consumer protection, agricultural product quality, food safety and weights and measures for the Agency of Agriculture. Supervision is exercised over technical and administrative employees. Duties include extensive contact with other units of federal and state government, industry, and agricultural and public health communities. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Food Safety and Consumer Protection Division Director.

Administers comprehensive programs to ensure that Vermont- produced food products meet USDA, FDA and Vermont requirements at the point of production and in commerce. Manages a comprehensive statewide program involving agricultural product and device inspection and compliance, and follows through on any enforcement actions. Responds to consumer concerns related to products and devices under the section's authority. Manages and evaluates programs to ensure that all weights and measures, agricultural products and maple regulations are properly administered and enforced. Manages the professional and technical work of the Consumer Protection staff, evaluates the work of the field investigation staff, and maintains uniformity in standards of program application. Supervises the State Metrologist and collaborates to oversee the operation of the Weights and Measures Laboratory. Assists the Secretary and Director of Food Safety and Consumer Protection with strategic planning and plan implementation. Develops, monitors, and maintains the section's operational budget in coordination with Divisional and Agency management. Consults and coordinates with federal and state officials regarding development and implementation of new programs, policies, and standards, and public and industry education. Provides testimony to the Vermont Legislature. Performs related duties as required.

Work is performed primarily in an office setting, with some field work required for which private means of transportation should be available. Excellent written, verbal and electronic communication skills are needed to interact productively with federal, state, and local officials, members of the legislature and industry, and the general public. Stress may be encountered in multitasking to effectively manage a variety of industries and issues simultaneously and engaging in conflict management. Evening and weekend work, including travel within and outside of Vermont is sometimes required.

Considerable knowledge of the agricultural marketplace and related consumer needs and issues.

Considerable knowledge of, or ability to comprehend and utilize, the state and federal laws, rules, and regulations applicable to agricultural products native to Vermont.

Considerable knowledge of agricultural production, grading, and processing, as well as quality control and food safety principles and practices.

Knowledge of, or ability to comprehend and utilize, state and federal retail packaging and pricing laws, rules, and regulations.

Knowledge of, or ability to comprehend and utilize, state and federal weights and measures laws, rules, and regulations.

Knowledge of, or ability to comprehend, the National Institute of Standards and Technology guidelines.

Working knowledge of, and ability to utilize, administrative and supervisory principles.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to administer multiple regulatory inspection and compliance programs.

Ability to effectively communicate orally, electronically and in writing.

Bachelor's degree or higher with a major in economics, agriculture, agribusiness, business management, or a related field AND four (4) years in economics, agriculture, agribusiness, business management, quality assurance, or full time investigatory work in a regulatory agency.

Two years or more of supervisory or program administration experience.