Manufactured Food Specialist - Agricultural Specialist or Agricultural Advisor

Working Title: Manufactured Food Specialist Job Class: Agricultural Specialist or Agricultural Advisor Agency: Minnesota Department of Agriculture Job ID: 96047 Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full Time Regular/Temporary: Who May Apply: Open to bidders and to all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bids accepted through 09/08/2026. Date Posted: 09/01/2026 Closing Date: 09/14/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Department of Agriculture Division/Unit: Food and Feed Safety Division / Manufactured Food Safety Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes Agricultural Specialist Salary Range: $25.67 - $37.26 / hourly; $53,598 - $77,798 / annually Agricultural Advisor Salary Range: $28.26 - $41.43 / hourly; $59,006 - $86,505 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE) FLSA: Nonexempt: Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. Join the Manufactured Food Program and help protect the integrity of Minnesota’s food supply while building a meaningful career with room to grow. This position is based in Saint Paul with eligibility to telework and offers the chance to work directly with wholesale food manufacturers, where you will be conducting inspections, supporting compliance, educating industry, and strengthening public health. Candidates may qualify at either the Agricultural Specialist or Agricultural Advisor level depending on their experience, providing opportunities for entry to advanced regulatory professionals. Whether you’re beginning your journey in food safety or bringing seasoned expertise, you’ll be part of a collaborative team committed to science-based regulation, industry partnership, and safeguarding the food Minnesotans and the world rely on every day, while maintaining a focus on work/life balance. This position is located in St. Paul and may have the ability to telework. This position conducts work statewide but will focus on the following counties: Anoka, Hennepin, Ramsey and Washington. Agricultural Specialist: This entry level position within the Food and Feed Safety Division exists to achieve Program goals, objectives, and outcomes by establishing and carrying out a detailed work plan that effectively (1) performs inspections, compliance, and enforcement activities in food facilities, for assurance and general enforcement of state and federal food safety laws and regulations; (2) under general supervisory direction and oversight, performs licensing, investigations and response activities; and (3) provides information and technical assistance for clientele with respect to manufactured food safety issues or compliance with state and federal manufactured food safety laws and regulations. Agricultural Advisor: This advanced level position withing the Food and Feed Safety Division exists to achieve Program goals, objectives, and outcomes by establishing and carrying out a detailed work plan that effectively (1) conducts inspections, licensing investigations, response, compliance, and enforcement activities in food facilities, for assurance and general enforcement of State and federal food safety laws and regulations; (2) provides information and technical assistance for clientele with respect to manufactured and wholesale food safety issues or compliance with State and federal food safety laws and regulations; and (3) provides training and assessment on inspection, sampling, compliance, licensing, investigation, and response activities for State Agricultural Specialists and local manufactured food regulatory staff. Minimum Qualifications Agricultural Specialist - To qualify for the Agricultural Specialist level, applicants must meet the following qualifications: One (1) year of experience conducting environmental health or food safety regulatory work (inspection, investigation, HACCP/Food Safety Plan review); or equivalent experience performing technical food safety, sanitation, or quality-controlled work in food production, processing, or environmental health settings. OR An associate’s degree in general science, natural science, agricultural or animal science, food science, environmental science, or a closely related field PLUS six (6) months of experience as describe above. OR A bachelor’s degree in general science, natural science, agricultural or animal science, food science, environmental science, or a closely related field. AND Strong verbal and written communication skills. Must currently possess and maintain an active/valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review. Ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment. Agricultural Advisor - To qualify for the Agricultural Advisor level, applicants must meet the following qualifications: Two years of experience conducting food safety regulatory work (inspection, investigation, HACCP or specialized process review); or equivalent experience performing advanced food safety, quality assurance, or compliance work in food manufacturing or regulatory environments, including responsibility for identifying violations, recommending corrective actions, or conducting technical reviews. OR An associate’s degree in general science, natural science, agricultural or animal science, food science, environmental science, or a directly related field plus 18 months of experience as described above. OR A bachelor’s degree in general science, natural science, agricultural or animal science, food science, environmental science, or a closely related field PLUS one (1) year of experience as described above. AND Excellent verbal and written communication skills Detailed knowledge and understanding of applicable Minnesota food safety laws and regulations Must currently possess and maintain an active/valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review Ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment Preferred Qualifications Agricultural Specialist: A bachelor’s degree or higher in a field listed from an accredited institution. Certification as a Registered Sanitarian/Registered Environmental Health Specialist (RS/REHS) with the State of Minnesota and/or the National Environmental Health Association. Food Safety Regulator Certification (FSRC) from the Association of Food and Drug Officials. More than one (1) year of experience with public health regulatory work (i.e., inspections, compliance, enforcement, HACCP/food safety plans). Demonstrated knowledge of applicable Minnesota food safety laws and regulations. Experience collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Agricultural Advisor A bachelor’s degree or higher in a field listed from an accredited institution. Certification as a Registered Sanitarian/Environmental Health Specialist (RS/REHS) with the State of Minnesota and/or the National Environmental Health Association. Certification as a Manufactured Foods Regulator (MFRC) with the Association of Food and Drug Officials. More than two (2) years of experience with food safety regulatory work (i.e., inspection, investigation, response, HACCP/food safety plans), to include PCQI, 3rd party standards, and specialized process training. Experience training and/or assessing risk-based inspections of regulatory staff. Experience collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Experience, skill, and comfort with public speaking. Physical Requirements Agricultural Specialists and Agricultural Advisors conduct inspection and enforcement activities in the field as needed to ensure compliance with State food safety laws and regulations. The work requires the ability to: Occasionally maintain a stationary position for extended periods of time such as prolonged standing or sitting. Ascend, descend ladders and steps. Position self to collect/move/transport food products during investigation, sampling, and inspection work. Traverse uneven and/or slippery walking surfaces. Work in wet, hot, and cold environmental conditions. Detect shades of product color to make appropriate product acceptability decisions. Communicate effectively with supervisors and workers in both office and field workplace locations that may be noisy environments. Detect product abnormalities through a sense of smell. Ahere to agency safety policies, including but not limited to safe operation of motor vehicles and prohibited confined space entry. This position requires travel, occasionally requiring overnight stays, and may require work on weekends. Additional Requirements The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will not sponsor applicants for work visas, including STEM OPT extensions. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US. A Job Offer Will Be Contingent Upon Successfully Passing a Background Check. It Is The Policy Of The Minnesota Department Of Agriculture, As Part Of Its Hiring Procedures, To Conduct Background Checks On The Finalist(s) For Positions Within The Agency. The Background Check May Consist Of The Following Components SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only) Employment Reference Check Driver’s License Check Conflict of Interest Review Criminal Background Check How To Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected]. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Lowell Urban at [email protected] or 507-469-5015. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Jennifer Romero at [email protected] About Minnesota Department Of Agriculture The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day. Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy. Our Three General Areas Of Responsibility Include Protecting our food supply; Protecting our natural resources; and Cultivating our agricultural economy. Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your Benefits May Include Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals Training, classes, and professional development Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] and let us know the support you need.

Conduct inspections, compliance, and enforcement activities in food facilities to ensure adherence to state and federal food safety laws. Provide technical assistance and training to industry clientele and regulatory staff regarding manufactured food safety.

Requires a degree in science or related field and experience in food safety regulatory work or quality control. Must possess a valid driver's license and demonstrate strong communication skills.

• Paid Vacation • Sick Leave • Paid Holidays • Medical Insurance • Dental Insurance • Vision Insurance • Prescription Drug Plans • Fertility Care • Diabetes Care • Orthodontic Care • Paid Parental Leave • Pension Plan • Employer Paid Life Insurance • Short-term Disability Insurance • Long-term Disability Insurance • Tax-free Expense Accounts • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Professional Development

• written communicationPreferred
• Regulatory CompliancePreferred

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Food Safety Inspections
• Regulatory Compliance
• HACCP Review
• Enforcement Activities
• Technical Assistance
• Licensing
• Investigation
• Public Health
• Sampling
• Risk-based Inspections
• Public Speaking
• Stakeholder Collaboration
• Written Communication
• Verbal Communication

• Agriculture
• Government & Public Sector
• Food & Beverage
• Science & Research
• Security & Safety

Minimum education

College diploma

Minimum experience

2+ years

Apply by

Oct 1, 2026

Posting language

English

Working hours

40 hours per week

Seniority

Entry level