The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has been serving the state’s agriculture community and the public for more than 100 years. Through service, regulation, and advocacy, WSDA supports the viability and vitality of agriculture while protecting consumers, public health and the environment. We employ anywhere from 750-1,200 employees in fields like brand inspection, food safety, international marketing, environmental science, and information technology. While we do have offices statewide, this position is located in Eastern Washington.
 
This position is unique, and will spend about 80% of their time serving as the Grain Inspector Eastern Regional Manager, and will report directly to the Grain Inspection Program Manager. The other 20% of the time will be spent as the Warehouse Audit Manager, reporting directly to the Assistant Director of the Commodity Inspection Division.  
 
We are searching for someone who has a high degree of technical aptitude, as is a result of five plus years of experience in the commodity inspection or grain processing and export business. In addition to this technical experience, we are looking for someone with refined interpersonal skills who can successfully lead a team, resolve conflict, and conduct themselves professionally despite emotionally charged situations. You should have excellent leadership skills, be highly skilled at strategic planning, and feel comfortable accepting and implementing authoritative direction from numerous sources. If this sounds like a challenge you would enjoy, continue reading and apply today! 

Some of what you will be doing:

• Provides technical oversight and supervision for the Grain Inspection Program Eastern Region.
• Applies state, federal and foreign rules, regulations, and laws to ensure strict standards are upheld within the program.
• Leads by example by adhering to agency policies and procedures and supporting a positive work environment.
• Plans, directs, and coordinates financial and personnel resources for the region. Responsible for employee development and succession planning.
• Develops procedures and implements change to enhance service delivery, ensure worker safety, and achieve optimal efficiency.
• Monitors training and directs activities of supervisory staff in order to maintain expertise and accomplish the objectives of the Grain Inspection Program.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the region’s Stakeholders.
• Works with the Program Manager to create succession planning, employee development, and leadership development opportunities within the Eastern Region.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with local, state, federal, and foreign agencies, industry associations, and stakeholder groups. Communicates with these groups regularly to understand their needs, concerns and activities.
• Continually monitors and identifies alternate inspection programs or audit-based services that could provide industry with cost-savings while maintaining the integrity of the program.
• Interacts with everyone from customers to stakeholders to foreign representatives, and is expected to act professionally and resolve issues in a thorough, timely manner.

 
What we are looking for:

• Five years’ experience in commodity inspection or the grain processing and export businesses.
• Demonstrated technical expertise in agriculture and knowledge of commodity inspections, grain processing and transportation practices.
• Must be a highly skilled communicator with demonstrated leadership skills and practical knowledge of personnel management principals.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a diverse environment under high pressure.
• Intermediate to advanced skills using personal computers with Windows and Microsoft Office.

In addition to the above, the following will make a candidate highly desirable:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or closely allied field including coursework or continuing professional education in public administration or management.
• Familiarity with international Phytosanitary and quality standards, post-harvest grain/commodity storage techniques, grain processing and transportation systems, human resource management methodology, facilitation and negotiation concepts, and financial management theory

Special Requirements:
Must acquire and maintain:

• WA State DL
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Federal Grain Inspection License for all grains in the assigned region.

This position works variable hours and travels throughout the state as necessary. The employee may work in industrial and agricultural settings in weather extremes with occasional exposure to loud noise, unpleasant odors, steep or uneven terrain, and temperature extremes.
 
 
How do I apply?
 
In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:

• A letter of interest describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position;
• A current resume detailing experience and education

The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified and documentation may be required.
 
To take advantage of Veteran’s preference please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22.Please black out your social security number prior to attaching.
 
Applications with comments such as “see attachments” or “N/A” in the supplemental question responses will be considered incomplete.
 
 
Supplemental Information:
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.
 
The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
 
The State of Washington actively supports diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants who need assistance in the application process or who need this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2020 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf at 800-833-6388