Climate Smart Food Systems Industrial Innovation Program Lead Planner Principal State

The Climate Smart Food Systems Industrial Innovation Program Lead Planner Principal position at the State of Minnesota involves providing policy expertise and coordinating industrial innovation for the Minnesota Climate Smart Food System Initiative. Responsibilities include leading project teams, managing program areas, and effective communication. Candidates should have experience in planning and project management, with a background in relevant fields. The role offers comprehensive benefits and is a full-time position based in St Cloud, MN.
About the position

The Climate Smart Food Systems Industrial Innovation Program Lead position exists to provide policy expertise and inter- and intra-agency coordination on industrial innovation for the Minnesota Climate Smart Food System Initiative (CSFS). The Minnesota CSFS Initiative is a suite of programs focused on a holistic approach to reduce climate pollution and build equity in Minnesota's food systems. This initiative is funded by a 5-year grant through the Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program. The position provides policy leadership related to industrial innovation and works closely with the Climate Smart Food Systems Initiative Coordinator and grants specialists to implement the assigned area of the program.

Responsibilities
• Provide policy expertise and coordination on industrial innovation for the Minnesota Climate Smart Food System Initiative.
,
• Implement assigned areas of the program in collaboration with the Climate Smart Food Systems Initiative Coordinator and grants specialists.
,
• Lead project teams, track progress, and manage towards the achievement of common goals within specified timeframes.
,
• Communicate effectively in written and oral formats with various audiences regarding program initiatives.

Requirements
• Two years advanced professional experience in planning, implementing, and evaluating work in food and organic waste reduction, energy decarbonization, environmental protection, or industrial innovation.
,
• A bachelor's degree in physical sciences, environmental sciences, geography, sustainability, public health, public policy, or a related field can substitute for 1 year of experience.
,
• Experience in project management and navigating ambiguous projects.
,
• Excellent communication skills.

Nice-to-haves
• Knowledge of climate change pollution reduction policies and strategies, particularly in organics recycling, food waste prevention, or local food systems.
,
• Experience working with grants, either grant-making or managing grant-funded work.
,
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people on shared projects and programs.

Benefits
• Comprehensive health insurance
,
• Retirement plans
,
• Paid holidays and vacation
,
• Professional development opportunities
,
• Flexible work schedules