ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Agricultural Program Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nature

Agriculture Program Specialist

Boise, ID · On-site +1

The Idaho Agriculture Program Specialist will further The Nature Conservancy in Idaho ... What You'll Bring: * BA/BS in agricultural or life sciences or related field and 5 years ...

Nature

Agriculture Program Specialist

Hailey, ID · On-site +1

The Idaho Agriculture Program Specialist will further The Nature Conservancy in Idaho ... What You'll Bring: * BA/BS in agricultural or life sciences or related field and 5 years ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAgricultural Program Specialist Jobs

Agricultural Program Specialist information

See salary details

$27K

$68K

$121.5K

How much do agricultural program specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for agricultural program specialist in the United States is $68,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an agricultural program specialist?

Agricultural Program Specialists are professionals who develop, implement, and manage agricultural programs and policies, often within government agencies or agricultural organizations. They work to support farmers, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Their duties may include coordinating outreach initiatives, analyzing data, and providing technical assistance to stakeholders. These specialists often serve as a liaison between farmers, government entities, and the public to improve agricultural productivity and resource management.

What are some common challenges agricultural program specialists face when implementing new agricultural initiatives?

Agricultural Program Specialists often encounter challenges such as coordinating between diverse stakeholders, navigating regulatory requirements, and ensuring that new programs are accessible and effective for local producers. They may also need to address resource limitations and adapt initiatives to suit varying environmental and economic conditions in different regions. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and adaptability are key to overcoming these hurdles and driving successful program outcomes.

What is the difference between Agricultural Program Specialist vs Agricultural Extension Agent?

AspectAgricultural Program SpecialistAgricultural Extension Agent
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental science, or related field; certifications varyBachelor's degree in agriculture, horticulture, or related field; often involved in community education
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, research institutionsCounty or state extension offices, community outreach programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government and research sectors to develop and manage programsCommonly employed by Cooperative Extension Services to educate farmers and the public
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles focus on agriculture, Agricultural Program Specialists develop and oversee programs within organizations, whereas Agricultural Extension Agents primarily educate and assist farmers and communities directly. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environments, but their core functions differ in program management versus community outreach.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an agricultural program specialist?

To thrive as an Agricultural Program Specialist, you need a background in agricultural science, program management, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with government agricultural policies, grant management systems, and data collection or GIS tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills help in collaborating with stakeholders and effectively delivering program objectives. These skills are essential to ensure successful implementation and evaluation of agricultural programs that support producers and communities.
More about Agricultural Program Specialist jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Agricultural Program Specialist jobs? The top employers for Agricultural Program Specialist jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Agricultural Program Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Agricultural Program Specialist jobs are:
Agricultural Program Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Agricultural Program Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,012 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Agricultural Program Specialist

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Hamilton Square, NJ

$125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

USDA Forest Service rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

166th of 290 rated public sector bodies

Job description

This position is located in the Farm Service Agency, New Jersey State Office, Operations Branch A, located in Hamilton Square, Mercer County, New Jersey.
Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. If education is required or being used to qualify, you must submit a copy of your transcripts.
Basic Requirement
GS-1145 Series

Education: Undergraduate Education: Major study - economics, agricultural economics, marketing, business administration, animal or poultry science/husbandry, agronomy, soil science, or related curricula dealing with the production and distribution of farm products.

Graduate Education: Major study -- dairy science, agricultural marketing, domestic agricultural development, farm management, agronomy, or other agricultural specialty areas; OR

Experience:

Experience that demonstrated:

  • Knowledge of the laws and regulations governing agricultural stabilization and conservation programs and of the particular application of national policies and objectives at the State level.

  • Understanding of farming practices and customs in the United States, and of the economic needs of farm communities at the State level.

  • Knowledge of current State and Federal agricultural trends; and

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with representatives of public and private organizations, farmers' associations, and others, and to interpret regulations, programs, and policies affecting them.

In addition to meeting one of the Individual Occupational Requirements listed above, applicants must meet the following Minimum Qualifications Requirement in order to be considered:
Specialized Experience Requirement: For the GS-13 level: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in federal service or comparable experience not gained through federal service. Specialized experience is defined as experience that involved work in directing, developing, reviewing, administering and coordinating programs which demonstrate knowledge of the laws and regulations governing agricultural stabilization and conservation programs and of the particular application of national policies and objectives at the State level; understanding of farming practices and customs in the United States, and of the economic needs of farm communities at the State level; knowledge of current State and Federal agricultural trends; and ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with representatives of public and private organizations, farmers' associations, and others, and to interpret regulations, programs and policies affecting them.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Time-in-Grade Requirement: If you are a current federal employee in the General Schedule (GS) pay plan and applying for a promotion opportunity, you must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled. You must meet this requirement by the closing date of this announcement.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Employment Type: OTHER

What USDA Forest Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply