Nutrient Management Specialist Nutrient Management Specialist ; Food Processing Residuals

Introduction

The Maryland Department of Agriculture oversees a wide range of consumer services, including marketing and lab services, plant and pest management, and resource conservation. The Nutrient Management Program protects water quality in the Chesapeake Bay by ensuring that farmers and urban land managers apply fertilizers, animal manure and other nutrient sources in an effective and environmentally sound manner. Maryland law requires certain farmers and livestock producers to follow nutrient management plans.

This position provides technical and administrative support to the nutrient management programs food processing residuals section statewide. The main function is to review applications and inspect nutrient management plans submitted for permitting and implementation, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and the protection of Maryland’s natural resources.

Reviews applications and evaluates certified nutrient management plans submitted to the food processing residuals section for permitting. Conducts plan implementation visits and reviews annual implementation reports. Issues permits ensuring compliance with state regulatory requirements using Department guidelines.

Provides technical assistance, issues follow-up and enforcement actions for non‑complaint licenses, consultants, nutrient applicators and farmers. Addresses complaints and farm emergencies. Maintains records of inspections and prepares reports on inspection activities.

Other related Nutrient Management Program duties as assigned.

• Education:
  
  A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, which includes at least 24 credit hours in agronomy, soil science, crops, horticulture, environmental science, or a related discipline.
• Experience:
  
  One year of experience in agronomy, soil fertility, nutrient management planning, or related farming experience.
• Notes:
  Four years of relevant experience may substitute for the required education. Alternative substitution options include an Associate degree plus experience, a Master’s degree, a current nutrient management certification, or military service experience equated on a year‑for‑year basis.

• Current Nutrient Management Consultant Certification.
• One or more years of experience in agricultural production.
• One or more years of experience processing electronic agricultural production transactions (regulatory inspections, writing nutrient management plans).

• Motor vehicle operator’s license (valid in Maryland) for duties requiring operation of a motor vehicle.
• Must obtain a nutrient management certificate from the Maryland Department of Agriculture within one year of appointment and maintain certification.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are evaluated based on education, training, and experience. Successful candidates are ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on an eligible list for at least one year.

Assessment may consist of a rating of education, training, and experience related to the position.

G

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

Online application is strongly preferred. If unable to apply online, mail a paper application to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Human Resource Office – Room 304, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401. Paper applications must be received by 4:30 PM on the closing date.

For questions, contact Stacey Summers at 410‑841‑5840 or via email anresources. TTY users: call via Maryland Relay.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.