DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR, DIVISION OF PLANT HEALTH & COMPLIANCE - UNCLASSIFIED

Posting number: 2026-03171

Department: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Job classification: Unclassified

Posting type: Open Competitive

Categories: Agriculture, Program Management

SummaryThe Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA), Division of Plant Health & Compliance, is seeking to fill the Deputy Administrator position in Sparks. The Deputy Administrator for Plant, Health and Compliance serves as the senior management role under the Division Administrator by helping oversee and coordinate all division operations. The role requires leadership across regulatory, inspection, testing, licensing, certification, personnel management, budgeting, and policy development functions. The incumbent works collaboratively with state, federal, local agencies, industry partners, and community organizations to ensure effective program implementation and compliance with statutes. Preferred qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science or a related field, five years of experience in agricultural regulation or management, and knowledge of agriculture-related industries and state administrative processes. Strong skills in communication, leadership, conflict resolution, process improvement, and program oversight are essential. A valid Nevada driver’s license is required within 30 days of appointment.
Examples of dutiesPreference will be given to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in an agricultural
science or a closely related field, and at least five years of experience in agricultural
regulation or management. Experience in production agriculture, animal science,
biology, natural resource or range management, personnel supervision, and
familiarity with state administrative, legislative, and budgeting processes is
preferred.
An equivalent combination of education and experience, as determined acceptable
by the Director, will be considered. Candidates must possess a valid Nevada driver’s
license at the time of appointment or obtain one within 30 days.
QualificationsDuties include, but are not limited to, all division personnel-related functions, along with
assisting in regulatory program oversight, management, budgeting, progress tracking,
testing, inspection, licensing, certification, and service programs. The position also
supervises and directs staff performing regulatory, testing, inspection, enforcement,
evaluation, and certification activities statewide.
The incumbent will participate in policy development, ensure compliance with state and
federal statutes, and work collaboratively with local, state, and federal agencies,
community organizations, businesses, and the public.
Supplemental informationSuccessful candidates will demonstrate the following:
• Ability to collaborate and lead through example, self-awareness, motivation, empathy, and social and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge and application of current management trends and principles.
• Ability to direct multiple programs involving multi-disciplinary staff
• Effective communication of ideas and principles through public speaking and concise written documents
• Application of a code of ethics in the business environment
• Ability to form and maintain positive working relationships with employees, industry, local government, state and federal organizations
• Knowledge of agriculture and plant industry related industries and their economic importance
• Application of fiscal policy
• Ability to review and streamline processes and make changes for efficiency and paperless work
• Ability to solve problems and address and resolve conflict, and
• Knowledge of legislative processes

Recruiter Contact Information: Sonja Grass - SonjaGrass@admin.nv.gov