Agriculture Program Specialist

The Agriculture Program Specialist role at Ag Jobs involves delivering agricultural programming and extension services in Saskatchewan. Responsibilities include developing events, providing knowledge to stakeholders, and collaborating with partners to enhance sustainability in agriculture. Ideal candidates should have a degree in agriculture or related fields, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. The position is based in Outlook, SK, Canada.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for government programs associated with agriculture in the province of Saskatchewan. It helps the agriculture industry manage risk and enables a globally competitive, thriving and sustainable agriculture and food sector by supporting farmers, ranchers and agri-business.

The Regional Services Branch within the Ministry of Agriculture has two opportunities in our Outlook and North Battleford offices to be a leader in the delivery of agricultural programming and extension services as part of the Agriculture Programs Specialist team delivering programming offered under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

As an Agriculture Programs Specialist, you will develop and deliver extension events and provide in-depth knowledge to farmers, ranchers, agri-business, industry stakeholders, and Indigenous communities on agricultural programs and availability of programming by:
• collaborating with Ministry partners to deliver client services focused on program awareness, building public trust, research, and technology transfer;
• identifying client issues and providing insight to assist in the development of programming to support sustainability of client operations and the agricultural sector;
• pathfinding programs that will help improve sustainability of operations; and
• building relationships and maintaining networks with key partners within government and industry.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced professional agrologist who has knowledge of agriculture programming and program delivery as well as current agriculture trends and issues in Saskatchewan and Canada, and who is:
• a leader in the delivery of client services;
• an independent worker who also has the skills to work as part of a dynamic team of specialists;
• an exceptional communicator to strategically interpret and transfer relevant information to producers, industry and colleagues;
• organized and able to independently prioritize and meet multiple deadlines;
• a strong interpersonal leader with demonstrated ability to build and maintain professional relationships with colleagues, leaders, technical specialists, and industry clients;
• able to identify, analyze and develop viable options, explanations and solutions to complex agricultural production and economic-related problems.

Typically, the knowledge and abilities required for this position would be obtained through a degree in agriculture, business administration, or public policy combined with some agricultural program and/or client-service delivery. A Professional Agrologist designation or eligibility to obtain designation is preferred.

A valid class 5 driver's license is required.

What we offer:
• valuable, engaging and fulfilling work;
• a comprehensive benefits package including pension;
• vacation, earned days off, and other supports to assist in maintaining healthy work/life balance;
• an inclusive, supportive and high-performing team culture;
• coaching and development opportunities; and
• industry network development opportunities.

The Ministry's deep-rooted values system of innovation, teamwork, integrity, service excellence, and leadership at all levels serve as the foundation to ensure results are achieved. The successful candidate must be a team player, able to both lead and collaborate, have a reputation for integrity, and have a focus on service excellence and innovation in their work.

We are committed to workplace diversity.