Farmland Preservation Program Manager

Job Code: 32002482
Salary Grade: NC18
Revision Date: 07/2025

Class Concept

This is managerial, administrative and technical work in managing a statewide Farmland Preservation program in the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS). This role plans, develops, evaluates, and monitors program goals designed to meet departmental objectives in agri-business and regulatory services. Position develops requests for funding, personnel, equipment and supplies. Work requires close cooperation with local governments, other state agencies, and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and extensive participation on state, regional and national committees and organizations.

This position develops overall plans, strategies and policies for farmland preservation activities related to federal and state legislation and regulations. Position will monitor the department's response to pending legislation and regulations and prepare written and oral briefs for the Commissioner, and other Departmental officials on a regular basis to maximize the Department's operational efficiency and service to the State. Position will serve as manager and administrator of the Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund for grant development and implementation, as well as responsibilities for staffing, oversight for budget management, preservation activities, annual program of work, record retention, public relations and other related management activities. .

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of federal and state legislative processes, laws and regulations dealing with farmland and natural resource protection; including Federal Farm Bill and General Statutes (106 & 143) Intermediate knowledge of other legislation and policies such as National Environmental Protection Act, the State Environmental Policy Act, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Coastal Areas Management Act, NC Administrative Code, Agricultural Development and Preservation of Farmland Law, Farmland Protection Policy Act, etc Thorough knowledge of land and water management; land use planning; application of engineering practices regarding landscaping; and animal waste management facilities for environmental protection Intermediate knowledge in production methods, management, and administrative requirements for forestry, crop and horticulture enterprises in North Carolina Intermediate knowledge of logic and scientific methods to analyze problems of a specialized nature in environmental systems, engineering, structural design, geology, soil, water, and air Intermediate knowledge of water quality testing and monitoring; soil chemistry; and agronomy Thorough knowledge and understanding of agriculture and agribusiness in North Carolina Ability to determine program goals and priorities, and to evaluate program effectiveness Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with state and federal agencies, industry groups, staff, and the general public Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of agencies, groups and individuals

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, agriculture, chemistry, or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in farmland and/or natural resources preservation programs; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.