Foreign Animal Disease Manager

August 5, 2024

State of Iowa

Des Moines

FULL TIME

Job Description

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) seeks to fill the position of Foreign Animal Disease (FAD) Response Manager-Assistant to the State Veterinarian. The role of the FAD Response Manager-Assistant to the State Veterinarian is to plan, direct, and manage FAD preparedness and emergency management programs in the Animal Industry Bureau and assist the State Veterinarian in foreign animal disease preparedness. Applicant chosen will primarily work in the office working on FAD preparedness. Time will also be spent in the field working with internal and external stakeholders that would be affected by a foreign animal disease in Iowa. The applicant chosen will also need to be able to work in the office and in the field during a FAD outbreak. Applicants are not required to be a veterinarian. Preferred applicants would be veterinarians, individuals with animal agricultural production experience, or individuals with FAD emergency preparedness experience. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license for statewide travel.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Serve as an assistant to the State Veterinarian as needed, including but not limited to activities associated with FAD preparedness, response, and emergency management.
Manage, coordinate, facilitate, and supervise emergency management programs administered by the Animal Industry Bureau with primary focus in FAD related emergency management programs.
Oversee, manage, review, and update all Iowa FAD plans.
Coordinate with public and private stakeholders to ensure engagement and awareness of FAD planning in Iowa.
Oversee funding related to FAD programs, including management of grants that include but not limited to State of Iowa Emergency Management Funding, Homeland Security Grants, and other federal grants.
Develop, implement, and maintain plans for diagnostic testing protocols during an FAD outbreak ensuring inclusion of stakeholders and necessary administrative rule and/or code changes.
Coordinate and oversee emergency supplies and equipment in Iowa Emergency Stockpile ensuring maintenance of equipment and acquisition of appropriate equipment and supplies.
Understand and maintain a working knowledge of Iowa Code and Administrative Rules pertaining to FADs and emergency management.

As an employee of IDALS you are a State of Iowa employee and eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Low out of pocket, high quality family medical insurance as low as $205.00 per month, single as low as $61.00 per month
Dental insurance is free for single and $46.00 per month for family coverage.
$20,000 basic life insurance at no cost, voluntary supplemental life for an additional cost, and long-term disability insurance at no cost
Exceptional retirement package includes IPERS (Iowa Public Employee Retirement System) which is a fixed income or defined benefit pension plan.
In addition to IPERS a deferred compensation plan (similar to a 401K) with a state match of up to $75.00 per month
Paid leave includes – 9 holidays, sick, vacation, military leave, and jury duty leave.

To learn more about benefits available as a State of Iowa Employee click here to visit the web page.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:
1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field, and experience equal to five years of full-time professional-level work in program administration, program development, program operations, or management.
2) A total of nine years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.
3) All of the following (a, b, and c):
a. Three years of full-time professional-level work experience in program administration, program development, program operations, or management; and
b. A total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and
c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, public health, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.
4) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes twelve months of full-time work as an Executive Officer 2 or two years of full-time work as an Executive Officer 1 or comparable specific management-level position.
For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description. (Download PDF reader)

Why Choose the State of Iowa?
At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
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