Agricultural Specialist – Ag Chemicals

Description of Duties

The Pesticide Registration program performs a variety of activities related to achieving compliance under the Minnesota Pesticide Control Law (Chapter 18B) and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). This position will work with the Pesticide Management Unit Supervisor in administering inspections regarding pesticide product sampling and conducting product marketplace registration checks to ensure compliance with pesticide laws. It will also be responsible for assisting with the coordination of the Special Pesticide Registration program and Pesticide Registration program so that only products complying with applicable registration requirements are being distributed and sold in Minnesota. Furthermore, this position will conduct data analysis, identify registration compliance issues, and distribute compliance assistance information to stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications
To facilitate proper years of service crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.

A BA/BS in Agriculture, Biology, Botany, Environmental Science, Soil Science, Weed Science or a closely related field.

Knowledge of pesticide products and their distribution/use; experience collecting, organizing, evaluating, and presenting data; and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups of people.

Strong communication skills (verbal and written), attention to detail, and the ability to work independently by planning and coordinating tasks.

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others and proficiency in advanced computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and internet tools.

The ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Must have a valid driver’s license and an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review.

Must have the ability to travel overnight on occasion.

Preferred Qualifications
A MA/MS in Policy, Agriculture, Biology, Botany, Environmental Science, Soil Science, Weed Science or a closely related field.

Professional work experience directly involved with the registration, labeling, production, distribution, handling, use, storage and/or disposal of pesticides.

Knowledge of State/federal pesticide registration/labeling regulations and procedures including the ability to read and interpret statute or pesticide label language.

Knowledge of Minnesota agricultural practices

Excellent interpersonal and public relation skills.

Professional experience evaluating existing procedures or processes and identifying and implementing continuous improvements.

Bilingual in Spanish.

Physical Requirements
This position requires conducting independent review and analysis of data, and gathering/presenting information. Other skills needed are those necessary to plan, coordinate, and evaluate the position responsibilities and tasks. The position will look at many physical documents and electronic pages, and track findings. The position must be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds of records or other documents. Reasonable accommodations can be made to match physical requirements to the ability of the employee.

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

Type of position

State Employee, hybrid telework Job ID: 86864

Salary

$25.29 – $36.71 / hourly; $52,805 – $76,650 / annually

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 IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension 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 deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-beingSupport to help you reach your career goals:Training, classes, and professional developmentFederal 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 performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder carePrograms, 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.

Location

625 Robert Street N, Saint Paul, MN 55155,

Closing Date

06/30/2025

Date Position Available

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.