Communication and Market Development Specialist - North Dakota Wheat Commission

Full-Time • Fargo, ND

The North Dakota Wheat Commission is dedicated to enhancing the value and marketability of wheat grown by North Dakota farmers. Through strategic efforts, the Commission works to expand global and domestic market opportunities, promote the nutritional benefits of wheat-based foods, support wheat varietal development and other key research initiatives, and participate in educational efforts on national trade policy. These vital programs are funded by North Dakota wheat producers through a checkoff of two cents per bushel sold, reinforcing a strong producer-driven commitment to the long-term success and sustainability of the wheat industry.

The North Dakota Wheat Commission is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Communication and Market Development Specialist to join our team. This position plays a key role in facilitating the Commission’s communication program and supporting market development and promotion efforts for North Dakota wheat.

This position is based in Fargo, ND, however candidates in the Bismarck/Mandan, ND area may also be considered. This role requires occasional evenings, weekends, and travel (in-state and out-of-state). Candidates must have a valid driver's license and the ability to lift up to 50lbs. This position is located in office with the ability to work remotely on an occasional basis with pre-approval.    

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and implement the Commission’s communication program and outreach strategy with producers, customers, consumers, and youth.

• Research and recommend effective communication channels to strengthen Commission publications and outreach efforts, especially across digital, social, and virtual platforms.

• Develop and distribute timely, informative, and well-written content for press releases, newsletters, annual reports, publications, website updates, and social media platforms.

• Publicize Commission initiatives in marketing, research, and policy by consulting with staff, Commissioners, and national and regional partners to remain current on key issues.

• Design and develop marketing materials, presentations, and display materials for customer outreach, trade events, educational programming, and Commission use.

• Support domestic and international market development and promotion efforts, including planning and logistics for trade team visits, coordinating speakers, and assisting with customer engagement.

• Assist with producer outreach and educational programs, often in collaboration with university researchers, Extension professionals, and industry partners.

• Conduct and support market information research to inform communication strategies and customer outreach.

• Represent the Commission at meetings, conferences, and events, both in-state and out-of-state.

• Enhance consumer and youth understanding of wheat production, nutrition, and the value of North Dakota wheat through creative communication efforts.

The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, along with background or knowledge in agriculture and the wheat industry. They must be able to work collaboratively with producers, customers, consumers, youth, and industry stakeholders. This position requires creativity, professionalism, and a passion for promoting North Dakota’s wheat industry at the local, national, and international levels.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, economics, agriculture, or a closely related field.

• Or an associate’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, economics, agriculture, or a closely related field with three years of professional working experience communications, marketing, or a related field.

• Or five years of professional working experience communications, marketing, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct agriculture experience, including on the farm, or closely associated ag industry 

Learn more and apply here.