Agriculture Diversification and Market Development Bureau Chief and State Horticulturist - Polk Co

Full Job Description

Make an Impact on Iowa’s Agriculture & Food Systems

At the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), our work supports Iowa’s farmers, food systems, and communities.

In this leadership role, you’ll help shape the future of Iowa’s horticulture industry, strengthen food safety systems, and expand market opportunities across the state.

As the Agriculture Diversification & Market Development Bureau Chief and State Horticulturist, you will lead programs that directly support growers, producers, and consumers, ensuring safe, sustainable, and thriving agricultural systems across Iowa.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you’ll lead statewide programs and partnerships that support Iowa agriculture. Key responsibilities include:

• Lead Iowa’s Organic Certification Program: Ensure compliance with USDA National Organic Program standards, oversee inspections and investigations, and support producers and processors across the state.
• Advance Iowa’s Horticulture Industry: Serve as a key connector across industry, academia, and stakeholders. Lead statewide engagement efforts, support industry partnerships, and contribute to organizations such as the Iowa State Horticulture Society.
• Oversee Farmers Market Nutrition Programs: Manage USDA-funded programs that connect Iowans to fresh, local food, coordinating vendor participation, training, and program delivery.
• Support Food Safety & Compliance: Partner with the FDA to implement the Produce Safety Rule and help ensure safe, high-quality food for consumers.
• Drive Market Development Initiatives: Support programs that expand agricultural markets, including renewable fuels and emerging opportunities for Iowa producers.
• Lead and Support a High-Performing Team: Supervise inspectors, compliance staff, and administrative team members, providing guidance, coaching, and performance oversight.
• Maintain Key Systems & Industry Resources: Oversee the Sensitive Crops Registry and ensure accurate, secure, and responsive service to stakeholders.
• Engage with Partners & Stay Ahead of Industry Trends: Collaborate with USDA, industry groups, and academic partners while staying current on regulations and best practices.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a closely related field
• Experience in agriculture, horticulture, food safety, or related programs
• Leadership experience with the ability to guide teams and manage programs
• Strong communication and partnership-building skills
• Ability to interpret and apply federal and state regulations
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel statewide as needed

Why Join IDALS & the State of Iowa?

Working for the State of Iowa means contributing to work that strengthens communities, supports agriculture, and protects the wellbeing of Iowans and their animals.

As a State employee, you’ll enjoy:

• Work That Matters – Support Iowa’s agriculture and food systems
• Stability & Purpose – A meaningful public service career
• Professional Growth – Opportunities to learn, develop, and advance
• Collaborative Culture – Work alongside passionate professionals making a difference

Comprehensive Benefits Package

• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
• Low out-of-pocket, high-quality medical insurance options
• Dental insurance — single coverage at no cost
• IPERS Retirement plus state-matched deferred compensation program
• Basic life insurance and long-term disability coverage
• Optional supplemental insurance plans
• Learn more about State of Iowa benefits on our careers website: State of Iowa Benefits

Additional Details

• Location: Hoover Building (Des Moines) with statewide travel as needed
• Please attach a resume and cover letter when applying

How to Apply

The State of Iowa uses NEOGOV to accept and process applications and is an E-Verify employer.

Visit the State of Iowa Careers page and apply under Jobs Open to All Applicants.Applicants may upload a resume and cover letter in the Attachments section of the application.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.

Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States.

The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization.

For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Qualifications