Good Agricultural {Practices (Gap) Coordinator

Job Responsibilities

In This Role You Would

Are you looking for a unique position that combines office and field time. Do you have a passion for agriculture and are interested in helping SC farmers. How about providing grower consultations both on the farm and in group settings. If so, then this Good Agricultural Practices Coordinator position at the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) is for you.

• Complete periodic administrative activities related to the GAP Audit Cost Share Reimbursement Program (i.e. processing grower applications, ensuring timely payment of invoices, and keeping accurate records).
• Provide direction and guidance to agency staff concerning program matters.
• Function as the SCDA subject matter expert for the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) food safety certification program.
• Maintain relationships with GAP auditors and serve as the liaison between the grower and auditor.
• Present information in a variety of settings on the benefits and requirements of GAP certification.
• Serve as the main point of contact for farmers and other producers pursuing GAP readiness, certification and expanded markets for their products.
• Conduct on-farm consultations to help growers prepare for a GAP audit including guidance for creating and implementing a farm food safety plan.
• Prepare and submit required grant progress reports.
• Further develop and promote the Statewide GAP Consultation and Cost Share Program.
• Collaborate with other partner organizations including the SC Specialty Crop Growers Association, the SCDA Market Development Team, SCDA Produce Safety, and Carolina Farm Stewardship Association.
• Connect growers with the appropriate resources needed to achieve GAP certification.
• Develop virtual and printed materials for presentations, grower training, and ongoing guidance.

Benefits

• Agency vehicle available for required travel.
• Valid driver's license and be able to operate a motor vehicle.
• 13 paid holidays, generous annual and sick leave accruals.
• A bachelor’s degree in food safety/science, agribusiness, agricultural education or related field and at least 2 years’ experience working in food safety.
• Ability to work independently with excellent time-management skills.
• Generous State benefits to include retirement, health, vision, dental and life insurance.
• Experience working with a diverse audience of individuals, producers, and groups.
• Must be able to lift 30 pounds.
• Experience with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Handling Practices, and/or food safety audits.
• Must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Up to 6 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Premium for BCBS State Standard Plan for full family coverage is only $307/month!
• Periodic daily travel is required throughout the state in a state vehicle.
• Premium for BCBS State Standard Plan for employee only coverage is less than $100/month!
• Specialized education or training in food safety certifications such as GAP, Global GAP, SQF, Primus, and/or GFSI.