Title:  Dairy Farm & Products Specialist II

Overview

The Dairy Section within the Food Safety and Consumer Protection Division at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets is seeking a candidate with a background in either dairy farming, dairy science, dairy sanitation or dairy product processing.  Candidates need to be self-motivated and want to contribute as part of a team that puts public service values into action daily while ensuring high quality dairy products are processed safely for all consumers to enjoy. The Dairy Farm Products Specialist provides regulatory support to Vermont dairy farmers with diverse milking operation configurations, equipment, and different animal species, processing facilities that produce a myriad of value-added dairy products, including award-winning cheese, butter, yogurt, fluid milk and ice cream.  The Dairy Farm Product Specialist plays a vital role in our food system by overseeing the dairy farm milk production and harvesting practices, hauling, manufacturing, processing, and distribution of nutrient dense dairy products to all consumers of Vermont dairy. This position may also assist with technical support to Vermont's dairy industry members through educational seminars in multiple platforms on an ongoing basis.  

This position allows the successful applicant to engage in a rewarding mix of regulation, education, and technical assistance.  Vermont's dairy processing industry has experienced significant growth in the past decade while our dairy farms range in sizes and management practices for success.  Due to this evolution and the many industry advancements that accompany it, this position will work with a large diversity of farms and processing operations making a diverse range of products.

Apply for this position now and take advantage of the opportunity to join a dynamic group of committed public service providers and thrive in a position where the days pass quickly due to the diversity of responsibilities.  The dairy industry is constantly evolving and implementing food safety regulations requires adapting, constant learning, collaboration, and working with those we regulate to ensure food safety.  The position also offers career ladder opportunities over time depending on knowledge, abilities, and certifications.  

This position is home based with a state vehicle provided for the inspection work. The successful applicant will be assigned to and expected to reside in one of the following counties Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Lamoille Counties work in other parts of the state will as needed on an intermittent basis. 

As of July 14, 2025, the step 1 rate for pay grade 24 will be $29.15 per hour.

Who May Apply

This position, Dairy Farm & Products Specialist II (Job Requisition #52960), is open to all State employees and external applicants.

Please Note: This position is being recruited at multiple levels. If you would like to be considered for more than one level, you MUST apply to the specific Job Requisition. 

Level I: 52950

Level II: 52960

Level III: 52961

If you would like more information about this position, please contact E.B.Flory@vermont.gov.

Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

Environmental Factors

Duties are performed in the field and usually in an assigned district. Strong differences of opinion and emotional reactions may be encountered and must be dealt with in a firm, objective, and helpful manner. A valid driver's license and private means of transportation is necessary. Duties will occasionally take place outside of normal working hours.

Minimum Qualifications

High school graduation or equivalent, AND two (2) or more years of experience in dairy or milk quality work, dairy farming, dairy farm management, dairy plant operations, milk processing, milk laboratory analysis, dairy plant management, dairy sanitation and food safety inspection or equally pertinent duties or equally pertinent duties.

OR

One (1) year of or more as a Dairy Farm & Product Specialist I.

Preferred Qualifications

Associates degree or higher in dairy science, animal science or a related field.

Special Requirements

Incumbents will be required to hold a Weigh & Sample, Bulk Milk Collection License from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and be evaluated as a Designated Sample Surveillance Officer.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.