Food Systems Specialist

The Food Systems Specialist will concentrate efforts on broadening the scope of the local and state food system network. This position plays a key role in advancing initiatives that strengthen connections between Upstate New York producers and New York City consumers, helping to expand market opportunities for Upstate New York farms, improve access to locally produced foods, and support a more resilient food system. The Food Systems Specialist will participate in, coordinate, and assist with initiatives to strengthen the local food system economic infrastructure, enabling an efficient, sustainable food corridor within New York State. This initiative aims to educate, provide resources, and coordinate efforts of those integrated in the food supply chain, providing opportunity, sustainability, and enhancements in economic and infrastructure security to the agricultural community and larger New York food system. The Food System Specialist will integrate themselves into various tiers of the food system supply chain as a community resource for local food promotion while ensuring funding objectives are met by working with food system stakeholders to promote and enhance the economic prosperity of New York agriculture. The successful candidate is expected to work independently with a high level of autonomy while building and maintaining relationships with government officials, agricultural organizations, and community partners to support New York State food systems.    Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, economics, marketing, business, or related field.Working knowledge and experience related to agriculture and farming.Ability to plan, manage, and/or implement projects and educational programs.Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate (verbally and written) with and provide guidance to a variety of groups, including community partners, community members, agricultural stakeholders, government officials, and CCE staff to meet individual and community needs.Ability to multi-task, prioritize and work as part of a team.Demonstrated ability to manage grant projects and contracts.Ability to meet the frequent travel requirements associated with this position. Willingness to work flexible hours including nights and/or weekends.Demonstrated competencies in communicating via electronic technologies and software.At least one year of professional experience dealing with the public or private sectors of agricultural industry and/or promoting and enhancing agricultural development within the context of more general county and region-wide economic development goals and vision.Capacity to link industry and producer needs with available expertise and to apply expert information to local situations.Experience with and knowledge of the challenges facing agriculture locally in New York State.Proficiency or ability to learn and effectively use software including use of the internet and Microsoft Office applications (...