CDA-Market Expansion Program Manager (Grant Specialist V)

CDA-Market Expansion Program Manager (Grant Specialist V)

Salary

$92,232.00 - $110,676.00 Annually

Location

Broomfield County, CO

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

BAA-00416-09102026

Department

Department of Agriculture

Division

Conservation Services Division

Opening Date

09/11/2026

Closing Date

9/25/2026 3:59 PM Mountain

FLSA

Determined by Position

Type of Announcement

This position is open only to Colorado state residents.

Primary Physical Work Address

305 Interlocken Pkwy, Broomfield, CO 80021, USA

FLSA Status

Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

How To Apply

Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.

Department Contact Information

Human Resources, Colorado Department of Agriculture, 305 Interlocken Parkway, Broomfield CO 80021

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Department Information

Who we are:

Agriculture is a part of all our lives. When you eat, put on clothes, or care for an animal--your life is touched by agriculture. Colorados food and agriculture industry generated $47 billion of economic activity in 2019 and supports nearly 5% of the states workforce. CDA is proud to be a part of such an important industry.

Mission:

The CDAs mission is to strengthen and advance Colorados agriculture; promote a safe and high-quality food supply; protect consumers; and foster responsible stewardship of the environment.

Core Values: Partnership, Service, Professionalism, Proactivity, and Respect

CDA Wildly Important Goals:

To accomplish our mission, CDA focuses on five "wildly important goals:"

• Goal 1: Expanding National and International Market Access

• Goal 2: Developing Agricultural Leaders

• Goal 3: Advancing the Colorado Water Plan

• Goal 4: Implementing the Beaver Strategy

• Goal 5: Providing Education on Animal Mistreatment and Livestock Theft

We use these goals to focus and align the daily work of our staff in support of Colorado farmers and ranchers. Learn more about our Department and our wildly important goals in our performance plan on our website.

What you get from us:

In addition to a great work location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:

• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including aPERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus optional 401(k) and 457 plans (www.copera.org)
• Medical and dental health plans (https://stateofcoloradobenefits.com/)
• Employer supplemented Health Savings Account ($60 per month)
• Paid life insurance, plus additional optional life insurance options
• Paid Short Term Disability and optional Long Term Disability coverage
• 11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave accruals
• BenefitHub state employee discount program
• Employee Wellness program State of Health
• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, remote work opportunities, free parking, professional development and more!

To learn about the total compensation package for State government employment visit: https://www.colorado.gov/dhr/totalcompensation

Equal Opportunity

The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness.

The State is resolute in non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities.

We believe that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Learn more about our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion by visiting our EDI Homepage: https://dpa.colorado.gov/about-us/edi.

Description of Job

Organizational Purpose:

This division exists to provide oversight and coordination of CDA's efforts to protect and enhance the state's agricultural activities, including land use and range management, conservation, soil and vegetation management, grazing rights on public lands, water quality and quantity, wildlife habitat, endangered species, and energy development. The purpose of the division also includes administrative and financial assistance to the 76 conservation districts, and oversight and administration of the noxious weed, bio-control (insectary), groundwater, chemigation, and weed-free forage programs. It also includes coordination and collaboration with other states and federal agencies.

Major Objectives of the Position:

The Conservation Market Expansion Program Manager is a strategic leader responsible for managing the cross-division coordination, organization, and execution of the $16M budget for the Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) grant and program. The Program Manager will directly influence the success of projects funded by the AMP Grant, uplifting conservation efforts and advancing marketing opportunities for farmers and ranchers across industries from every area of the state. The Program Manager will be responsible for distributing more than $13 million dollars over 2 years to support producers implementing conservation practices (soil health, noxious weeds, climate resilience, and others) and support producers engaging in new markets. The position will also be responsible for developing a program-wide strategy and workflow that aligns with division programs and federal funding rules. This program will have a lasting impact on the Colorado agricultural industry, and this position will determine the success or failure of the program

The Conservation Market Expansion Program Manager:

• Creates and leads the implementation of internal structures, workflows, and processes to support execution on grant deliverables, including distributing $13.7M directly to Colorado farmers and ranchers. Leads AMP project efforts across teams and divisions, including the Markets Division and Conservation Services Division (CSD), ensuring programs that utilize AMP funding execute on project deliverables and reporting requirements.
• Creates guidelines and program rules and makes daily decisions that will impact Colorado farmers and ranchers and their ability to apply for or spend these grant awards.
• Liaisons between CSD, Markets, and the Commissioners Office, coordinating with the AMP Steering Committee to ensure successful project implementation.
• Maintains communication and coordination with federal partners at USDA-NRCS, advancing goals of the AMP program for the state of Colorado in coordination with CDA's core values and strategic mission.

Primary Duties:

Market Expansion Program Management:

The Conservation Market Expansion Program Manager will be responsible for the overall strategic direction and administration of the AMP program, including creating and executing program processes and structures within the AMP team that work across CDA divisions. These guidelines and strategies will impact CDA programs, partnering agencies, and farmers and ranchers across Colorado. In addition this position will manage the strategic direction of the program with Division leaders. Specific administrative and strategic responsibilities for this position include but not limited to:

• Design and oversee various rules,processes, and guidelines related to distribution of AMP funding through grants.
• These design decisions will determine if and how farmers and ranchers can apply for and use these funds
• They will also determine rules around verification and grant management, including impacts to producers who have not met grant goals.
• Lead strategic decision-making and execution of grant programs associated with this program with the program team, AMP Steering committee and CDA leadership.
• Assist the program team in identifying impactful opportunities for program funds.
• Develop, monitor, and evaluate inputs, outputs, and outcomes of individual grant awards and develop other organizational tools to track program progress.
• Develop grant reporting requirements that will impact farmers and ranchers.
• Provide regular status updates through in-person briefings, written reports, and other communication methods to inform the AMP Steering Committee and CDA leadership.
• Manage environmental review process, per federal regulations.
• Lead internal meetings with program managers across the Department that are working on AMP-funded programs
• Ensure all state and federal reporting deadlines are met by internal staff.
• Utilize reporting from grant specialists in each division to track and monitor the program budget, identify and resolve any financial issues successfully.
• Comply with all procurement and grant procedures and policies.
• Establish and follow processes to prevent fraud, waste and abuse of program funding.
• Create processes that other departments will utilize to manage their own grant and grant reporting.

Internal Cross-Team Coordination & Strategy:

This position will be responsible for communicating and coordinating across teams within the Conservation Services Division and Markets Division to ensure effective and impactful spenddown of AMP grant funds. They will work with program leadership across teams and divisions throughout all phases of the AMP program, coordinating appropriate action steps for programs from program establishment through project completion. They will also report regularly to the internal AMP Steering Committee, including presenting for approval programs spend-down plans for AMP funds, strategizing and adjusting spenddown plans as needed, and regularly updating the Committee on project progression with the ultimate goal of total accurate and impactful spenddown of AMP funds. Duties include:

• Creating an organized internal and external communications strategy for AMP-related updates and deadlines as needed.
• Working with other departments (including Department of Natural Resources, Depart of Local Affairs) to demonstrate how this program will overlap and intersect with their programs, and design clear rules and strategies to align programs and meet goals. These departments will have to adjust their program design and program reporting requirements to account for the new AMP program. This position will help other departments revise their program rules and guidance.
• Assist program managers, at CDA and across the state, with the development, promotion, review, selection, awarding of grants through various Department programs.
• Disseminate to the necessary staff,all federal and state compliance requirements in administering AMP funding.
• Scheduling, hosting, and coordinating cross-team and cross-department program updates in both virtual and in-person settings.
• Presenting AMP updates to the AMP Steering Committee, Agricultural Commission, other Departments, including the Colorado Water Conservation Board, and the State Land Board, various stakeholder meetings, advisory councils, and others as needed.

Coordination with Federal Agencies (Grantor):

This position has the primary responsibility for communication and coordination with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA/NRCS) federal partners on the AMP grant. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Compile and submit reports and invoices to USDA timely and accurately, with support from program staff, CDA's accounting team, and the AMP Steering Committee. Submit semi annual reporting to NRCS using their required reporting spreadsheet.
• Advocate for CDA's policy and programs. Promote Colorado producers, farmers, ranchers, and ag businesses.
• Ensure CDA is in compliance with grant agreement and grant rules. Work with CDA's Procurement team to report grant progress and request reimbursements.
• Ensure CDA's AMP-funded grants are processed per state and federal requirements.
• Attend training, meetings, or conferences required through the AMP grant award.
• Oversee a successful close out grant and wind down of the AMP grant program.
• Work with federal partners to ensure a smooth reporting and invoicing process.
• Allocate and monitor AMP funding awards, encumbrances, and expenditures across programs and teams.
• Compile program results and statistical data to provide reports to USDA-NRCS and the AMP Steering Committee to relay programmatic performance and implementation.

Outreach and Engagement:

The AMP Program Manager will engage Colorado stakeholders both through formal entities within CDA (steering committees, advisory groups, commissions, etc.) as well as through public stakeholder interest groups from diverse backgrounds on a regular basis throughout the project for the following purposes:

• Assist program managers in the promotion of AMP grant opportunities, including online and in-person workshop or information sessions
• Develop electronic and print promotion material.
• Gather feedback as needed on project priorities
• Inform the CDA of areas of need within the state, including technicalities specific to certain industries
• Inform producers of upcoming project opportunities funded by AMP grant dollars through conference presentations, webinars, or other engagement opportunities
• Attend site visits across Colorado to visit with grantees

This position will need to travel within the state a few times a year. When possible, a Fleet Car will be provided.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

Must be a Colorado resident at the time of application.

This posting may be used to fill more than one vacancy.

• This is a Grant Funded Position set to expire on 3/31/2028 if not renewed*

Please note that this position is considered hybrid for the Broomfield Office location and is eligible for flexible work arrangements, including some work-from-home options.

Skills-based Hiring:

This position is advertised in alignment with Executive Order 2022-015, Skills-Based Hiring. Recruitment for this position recognizes that skills can be developed through various pathways, including formal education, work experience, volunteering, self-directed learning, and other life experiences, opening doors to individuals from varied backgrounds. Those with relevant experience but without traditional credentials are welcome to apply!

Salary Range:

BIWEEKLY

$3,547.38 - $4,256.77

ANNUALLY

$92,232.00 - $110,676.00

Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are typically made at or near the range minimum.

Minimum Requirements:

Proven Experience, Knowledge, Skills:

• Eight (8) years of program management, grant management, agricultural business, conservation or agricultural support services, business management experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position.

OR

Education and experience:

• A combination of related education, Public Administration, Agricultural Business, Environmental Science, Economics or related field and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to eight (8) years.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with strategic program development and program management
• Experience with federal, ideally USDA, grant management
• Experience working with agricultural producers
• Experience managing grantees, including tracking budgets
• Experience with measuring, monitoring, and evaluation strategies.

Conditions of Employment:

• Must have and maintain an active Colorado drivers license. Must be able to pass a motor vehicle background check.
• Must be a resident of the state of Colorado.
• Be willing to travel 6-10 times a year throughout Colorado
• Must be willing to work outside of normal business hours
• Required Competencies:
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and public speaking skills.
• Experience working with Program Management
• Experience with Grant Management
• Experience with outreach and education
• Knowledge of conservation practices.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and juggle multiple priorities, and able to react and adjust quickly to changing conditions.
• Detail oriented
• Excellent communication skills; able to communicate effectively and articulately in writing and orally with diverse communities in all corners of the state.
• Work well under pressure.
• Strong relationship management skills and excellent representation of the department in community interactions.
• A proven track record for developing and maintaining trusted relationships with stakeholders and industry experts.
• Excellent negotiation and consensus building skills.
• Proactive approaches to problem-solving and with strong decision-making capability.
• Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently

Important Information:

Part of, or the entire selection process for this position will involve a review of the information you submit in your application materials. Therefore, it is paramount that in the experience portion of your application, you describe the extent that you possess the education, experience and competencies outlined in the job announcement as well as the special and/or preferred qualifications. Failure to include adequate information or follow instructions may prevent you from competing in subsequent measures used to arrive at a top group of applicants.

Please submit the following:

• Online application (completed fully) describing how you meet the minimum qualifications
• OR If you are not able to submit an online application, a paper application is available at this link: PDF State Paper Application. Paper applications must be received (either by US mail or email to mary.hunt@state.co.us by the closing date and time of the application period listed on this announcement.
• DD214 (if applicable)
• Unofficial copy of transcripts (if applicable)

Factors that will be assessed:

• Technical Competence - Technical experience as it relates to the duties outlined in this job announcement.
• Depth and Breadth of Experience - Experience that covers multiple areas outlined in this job announcement. Experience should be varied and not one dimensional and demonstrate a wide range of community involvement.
• Job Fit - Experience will be evaluated to determine how well your past experience aligns with and meets the business needs of this position. Current experience is preferred.

Appeal Rights:

As an applicant who has been removed from consideration during the selection or comparative analysis process, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board and/or request a review by the State Personnel Director. A standard appeal form is available on the State Personnel Board website, https://spb.colorado.gov/forms-and-filing. If you appeal, your appeal must be submitted in writing on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative, and received at the following address within ten (10) days of your receipt of this notice: Colorado State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director, Attn: Appeals Processing, 1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver, CO 80203. Fax: 303-866-5038. Phone: 303-866-3300. Email address: dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us. The ten-day deadline and these appeal procedures also apply to all charges of discrimination. Refer to Chapters 4 and 8 of the State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Directors Administrative Procedures, 4 CCR 801, for information about the appeals process. The State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Directors Administrative Procedures are available at spb.colorado.gov.

Supplemental Information

Important Information:

Part of, or the entire exam for this position will involve a review of the information you submit in your application material. Applications are considered complete and accurate at the time of submission. Therefore, additional information may not be solicited or accepted after your application has been received. Therefore, it is very important that you clearly describe all of your relevant experience on the application itself. Applications left blank or marked "SEE RESUME" will not be considered.

All applications that are received by the closing date of this announcement will be reviewed against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement by a Human Resources Specialist. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications may proceed to the next step. Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process.

ADAAA Accommodations:

Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact by phone or email at least five business days before the assessment date to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date.

The Department of Agriculture is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to Mary Hunt, at mary.hunt@state.co.us or call 303-869-9006.

E-Verify

CDA uses e-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.

Toll Free Applicant Technical Support: If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it.

The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits

Please note that each agencys contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.

01

Please confirm your understanding that this role relies on grant funding scheduled for extension review on Mar 31, 2028, and employment will conclude should funding not be extended.

• Yes
• No

02

The Conservation Market Expansion Program Manager will make strategic decisions on program design to ensure federal dollars are spent efficiently, appropriately, and with impact. Describe a complicated program you managed and how you juggled internal and external stakeholders, competing timelines, and budget issues.

03

Describe your experience working with federal or state grants

04

Colorado Dept of Agriculture works to ensure our programs meet the real on-the-ground needs of Colorado producers. How can grants be designed to best support Colorado farmers and ranchers?

05

Are you a current or previous employee of the State of Colorado?

• Yes
• No

06

If so please list your Employee ID Number

Required Question

Employer State of Colorado

Address See the full announcement by clicking

the "Printer" icon located above the job title

Location varies by announcement, Colorado, --

Website https://careers.colorado.gov/