Livestock Marketing Consultant #00773

Title: Livestock Marketing Consultant #00773

State Role Title: PR & Mktg Spec IV

Hiring Range: $57,733 - $67,000

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Virginia Department of Agriculture

Location: MOBILE WORKERS SW

Agency Website: https://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is seeking a Livestock Marketing Consultant to serve the Southeast/Central Region of Virginia. This position will be responsible for working livestock markets primarily in Lynchburg, Springlake, and Blackstone, however other market locations are also included based on program needs. This position involves routine regional travel to conduct Board Sale or Tel-O-Auction (TOA) evaluations, both at livestock markets and on-farm. This position has primary responsibility to provide quality, official, uniform, and unbiased grading, evaluation, and analysis of livestock based on official USDA grade standards for the benefit of Virginia producers, livestock markets, on farm for tel-a-auctions, and board sales within the assigned region. This position will assist with the development of promotional brochures and/or trade show displays. This position also assists in the coordination of marketing and promotional strategies for the livestock industry designed to bring buyers and sellers together; add value and enhance profit potential for Virginia livestock producers.

The selected individual will establish and work from a home office under the direction of the Program Manager and be required to meet all established agency and program deadlines. The home office must have reliable access to a network for mobile communications. The selected individual will be required to live in or convenient to the assigned territory. A state vehicle will be provided for business use only and must remain parked within the assigned territory. This position requires daily travel as well as irregular work hours which include weekends, early morning, late evenings and/or holidays. Assigned schedules may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Occasional travel to other parts of the Commonwealth may be required based on program business needs.

Minimum Qualifications

Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of animal agriculture and livestock production, USDA grade standards for livestock grading and evaluation, and marketing activities especially as related to agriculture or livestock production. Demonstrated ability to collect and analyze agricultural market data; to develop agricultural marketing plans and promotional programs; and to assist in the coordination and implementation of marketing projects, plans and promotional activities. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with the public, customers, agricultural community, and all levels of management and industry representatives. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; to handle high stress situations professionally; to work independently and make decisions with limited supervision and work within a team environment; to be self-motivated; to effectively plan and organize work activities; and to coordinate multiple priorities. This position involves significant physical activity that includes being in an enclosed area with livestock, especially cattle and the ability to lift 50 pounds. Proficiency using standard business software such as MS Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Power Point etc. Other conditions include dusty, muddy, and noisy conditions, standing for long periods of time, driving, repetitive motions and working outdoors in extreme cold or heat. Must be able to meet the qualifications for USDA grading certification within six months of employment. Must have (or be eligible for) and maintain a valid driver's license and have a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety. HS Diploma/GED required.

Additional Considerations

A combination of related education, training, and experience indicating possession of the proceeding knowledge, skills, and abilities to include knowledge of animal science, agriculture, agricultural marketing, or a related field. Experience with livestock grading and evaluation, promotional strategies, program design and implementation. Experience in a business environment related to the livestock or agricultural industry. 

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Plea