Jobs

Associate/Senior Associate

THIS POSITION WILL BE LOCATED IN WATERLOO, IOWA.

Primary Purpose of this Position: This position is responsible for developing and implementing integrated communications projects and programs for MorganMyers clients. The immediate need is a candidate with strong technical writing skills to work on one large national account with the opportunity to add more accounts over time.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

• Recommend, develop and implement world-class communications programs that will help client achieve its objectives
• Implement assignments, including preparation and management of communications plans, interviews, research, writing, design direction
• Manage client activities to ensure project completion in a timely, cost-effective and high-quality manner
• On behalf of the client, build relationships with the media and other key stakeholder groups (influencers and associations) through use of appropriate PR techniques
• Support senior account personnel in client contact; handle the majority of day-to-day client contact, manage expectations and keep projects on course
• Monitor time and expenses on assigned accounts and contribute to invoice preparation
• Contribute to invoice preparation
• Contribute to preparation of budgets and income/expense projections
• Perform ongoing assignments under limited supervision
• Perform other duties as required by team leader
• The position will be located in Waterloo, Iowa.

Education/Experience:

• Degree in public relations, journalism or related communications field
• Strong writing and editing skills; technical writing abilities and interest is a plus
• 3 to 5 years experience in marketing communications ideal
• An interest in and understanding of agriculture is a must

Knowledge/Skill Qualifications:

• Strong project management skills, as well as writing, interviewing and editing skills
• Ability to understand and translate technical information into marketing communications tools
• Basic understanding of agricultural equipment and its applications, as well as geographic differences in crop production
• Knowledge of and ability to deal with agricultural issues and trends
• Excellent organizational abilities, utilizing personal skills, other people and material resources
• Extreme attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to remain cool under pressure
• Self-confident and takes pride in high-quality work
• Respect for and support of other team members
• Some travel required.
• The position will be located in Waterloo, Iowa. Some assistance with relocation may be available.

To apply, please send resume, cover letter and writing samples to carol.shoberg@mranet.org.

Posted: May 2013

Writers/Technical Writers in the Agricultural Industry

(both freelance and/or regular full-time positions)

MorganMyers is seeking experienced writers and technical writers in the ag industry (animal health and/or ag equipment).

Primary purpose of the position is to strategize communications efforts, create campaign concepts, write headlines and text for client jobs, such as brochures, mailers, radio spots, CD-ROMs, etc.

An interest in and understanding of agriculture is a must!

Responsibilities:

• Writes copy on specific topics, promotions and direct mailings related to the agricultural industry (animal health, agricultural equipment, etc.)
• Assists in the preparation of the client program and coordinates layouts with the Art Director and Account Executive
• May assist in estimating production costs or overseeing work done by outside suppliers
• Researches articles, reports, editorials, reviews and other material

Education:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, as shown through writing samples
• Minimum of 3 years experience in writing collateral materials

Qualifications:

• Good working knowledge of grammar, punctuation, usage, meanings and have extensive vocabulary
• Must be computer literate, using either a PC or a Mac
• Must have working knowledge of various software programs such as MS Word, PowerPoint, etc.
• Must have basic math skills, especially in technical writing
• Should have excellent reasoning and judgment skills
• Must be a creative thinker, an analyzer and a problem solver
• Must possess the ability to work independently or as a member of a team

The job may be located in either Waterloo, IA or Waukesha, WI.

To apply, please send resume, cover letter and writing samples to carol.shoberg@mranet.org.

Posted: May 2013

Director of Communications and Member Relations

Texas Cattle Feeders Association seeks Director of Communications and Member Relations to design and implement public and member communications and membership activities.  Utilize weekly e-newsletter, Facebook, Twitter and other means to communicate projects, policies and services to members, the public and other stakeholders.  Minimum 5 years’ experience required.  Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience.  Please include examples of written work and descriptions of projects managed with your resume.

For more information or to submit resume contact association at Christie@tcfa.org or 806.358.3681.

Posted: May 2013

Public Relations Associate

The Wisconsin Holstein Association is currently seeking a part-time Public Relations Associate to be based out of the Baraboo office 20 hours per week. The Public Relations Associate will coordinate projects relating to the day-to-day implementation of both public relations and marketing strategies to the Wisconsin Holstein Association membership and the dairy industry.

The main responsibilities include but are not limited to: media relations, press releases, website maintenance, social media, marketing collateral design, writing articles, event planning and membership relations.The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelors of Science or Associates Degree in a related field and have 3-5 years of related experience. Candidates must be team-oriented with excellent verbal and written communication skills, have strong attention to detail, good organizational and problem-solving skills.

Proficiency with InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat and Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word and PowerPoint) is required. Experience with video editing is preferred.

If you are interested in joining our outstanding team, submit the following materials by May 15, 2013 to larryn@wisholsteins.com or mail to: WI Holstein Association, 902 8th Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913.
1) Cover letter explaining why you would be the best fit for the position
2) Resume including education, work experience and accomplishments
3) List of three references with contact information

For more information on the position visit the WHA website at www.wisholsteins.com/publicrelationsassociate.html or call the office at 1-800-223-4269.

About Us
Wisconsin Holstein is a not-for-profit membership organization with the purpose of promoting the Wisconsin Holstein registered breed and its breeders and owners. For more information visit the WHA website at www.wisholsteins.com.

Posted: April 2013

NAWG Internship Program - Communications

The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) offers an internship program for sophomores, juniors or seniors in college interested in gaining real-world experience in a policy advocacy organization. For the summer of 2013, NAWG is specifically seeking a communications-focused intern.

NAWG is a Washington, D.C.-based trade association representing 22 state wheat grower organizations. From offices in the Wheat Growers Building on Capitol Hill, NAWG’s staff members are in constant contact with state association representatives, NAWG grower-leaders, Members of Congress, Congressional staff members and the public. NAWG’s lobbyists work on issues as diverse as federal farm policy and crop insurance, environmental regulation and research funding.

NAWG also leads a number of efforts outside the Beltway to benefit wheat growers, including the quest to bring the benefits of new and innovative research tools to wheat growers and efforts to find common ground between growers and the railroads that transport their products. NAWG participates in a variety of communications- and policy-focused coalitions, including the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, the Alliance to Feed the Future, Farm Policy Facts and advises TV program America’s Heartland.

Applicants can expect a NAWG internship to provide a well-balanced, unique-to-D.C. experience in the day-to-day operations of an agricultural advocacy organization. Selected individuals will assist the director of communications and other office departments as needed, but specific experiences are likely to include:

1. Conducting research and preparing press statements, one-pagers and reports;
2. Assisting the communications director with the weekly NAWG news update;
3. Monitoring wheat- and policy-related news;
4. Developing content for NAWG’s website and social media outlets; and
5. Interfacing with members of the media, the public and NAWG stakeholders to ensure they have the tools they need for their work.

Successful candidates will be responsible for all living costs while in Washington, D.C., including housing, food, and transportation to and from work, which is one block from the Senate office buildings and the Union Station Metro terminal. Any required business travel and associated costs will be covered by NAWG.

However, this is a paid internship; NAWG interns are considered temporary employees and paid $8.25 per hour.

Successful applicants must be able to work well in a group setting; demonstrate an interest in and/or a connection to agriculture; demonstrate communications-related skills including writing, editing and research; have a working knowledge of government; and be interested in pursuing a career after graduation focused on agriculture and/or communications work.

Preference will be given to applicants from states with NAWG-affiliated state wheat grower associations.

Applications for this opportunity are due April 30. Start and end dates will be determined based on the selected student’s school schedule.

Interested students should complete an application packet including:

The Internship Program Application Form, available directly at http://www.wheatworld.org/wp-content/uploads/other-internship-program-application-form.pdf.

A cover letter explaining how they learned about the NAWG internship program and what they hope to gain from participating.

A current resume including any organizational affiliations, work experience, awards, honors, education, etc.

Two letters of recommendation from professors, employers or personal references.

An essay (maximum 200 words) on the top three public policy issues that interest them.

Official university/college transcript(s), both undergraduate and graduate if applicable.

Proof of English speaking and writing competence if they are from a country that is not English-speaking.

Intern candidates may be asked to submit additional writing samples or take a grammar/copy-editing test before selection.

All materials submitted must arrive in one package and must be written in English. Materials become the confidential property of the National Association of Wheat Growers and are not returnable.

Completed packets can be emailed to mkessler@wheatworld.org to the attention of:
Melissa George Kessler
Director of Communications
National Association of Wheat Growers
415 Second Street, NE, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20002

Questions or comments may also be directed to Melissa George Kessler at mkessler@wheatworld.org.

Posted: April 2013

 

VP of Strategic Communications

The National Pork Board is seeking a creative and visionary person to manage and promote internal and external communications.  This leadership position will be key in developing a strategy with other management team members to formulate a coordinated campaign for delivering National Pork Board message to producers, opinion leaders, consumers, and other key audiences.

This individual will act as a spokesperson for the National Pork Board on numerous occasions; assist in preparation of speeches, presentations and statements; supervises writing and preparation of National Pork Board publications, brochures, several newsletters, etc. intended for various internal and external audiences.  This person will be responsible for preparation of the Annual Report. Knowledge of National Pork Board practices/policies is helpful.  The V.P. will have heavy involvement with producer leadership and staff management in execution of the National Pork Board’s mission.

Applicants should have ten years’ experience within a corporate or association public relations department, preferably in the agriculture sector, with demonstrated success of a communications/marketing campaign. Experience in crisis management and risk communications is preferred.

A Bachelor’s Degree in communications, marketing or related field.

This position will require 30-40 percent travel via air and ground and requires a valid driver’s license and good driving record.

The National Pork Board has responsibility for Checkoff-funded research, promotion and consumer information projects and for communicating with pork producers and the public. The Pork Checkoff funds national and state programs in advertising, consumer information, retail and foodservice marketing, export market promotion, production improvement, technology, swine health, pork safety and environmental management.   Applicants should be able to support the mission of the organization with enthusiasm to serve U.S. pork producers.

Qualified candidates should forward their cover letter, resume and salary requirements by May 10^th, 2013 to: HR@pork.org

No phone calls please.

The National Pork Board, an equal opportunity employer, offers an exceptional benefits package and work environment.  Visit us online at www.pork.org and www.PorkBeInspired.com

Posted: April 2013

Editor of Content & Publications - Illinois Farm Bureau

Description

• Evaluates editorial content and directs and motivates support staff to ensure timely and thorough coverage of news and information.
• In conjunction with the Director of News & Communications, determines editorial priorities and content placement primarily among print and online platforms. Exercises prudent editorial content decision-making and judgment.
• In conjunction with the Farm Information Web Editor and Radio Director, ensures timely collaboration among all IFB communications platforms to maximize IFB editorial resources.
• Evaluates IFB’s news content and products and makes recommendations for improvement and expanded use.
• Oversees budgets for gathering editorial content, in particular for FarmWeek and Partners.
• Reviews and edits all copy. Monitors news events, releases and social media. Responsible for consistent tone and content to achieve goals of the organization.
• Manages copy flow and transmission. Coordinates all facets of news production and in particular, publications. Stays current with news gathering, communications platform and delivery technology. Follows and ensures  compliance with IFB Brand Manual and AP style.
• Coordinates development of special sections, columns, illustrative graphics, images and other print and online design components.
• Surfaces story ideas. Gathers information through interviews or research. Contributes news and feature stories, commentaries, images, audio and video segments for all IFB communications platforms.

Required Skills:

Education:

Education equivalent to a college degree.

Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of the English language and rules of grammar.
• Computer knowledge, including proficiency in word processing and photo-editing software.
• Knowledge of desktop publishing.
• Basic knowledge of production agriculture.
• Strong working knowledge of agricultural issues.

Skills:

• The ability to function effectively under deadline pressure.
• The ability to organize assignments and numerous details to meet production and posting deadlines and achieve goals and objectives of multiple IFB communications platforms and the organization.
• Strength in communicating with writers, farmers, county Farm Bureau managers, and others who may serve as information resources for and constituents of the various IFB communications platforms.

Preferred Skills:

Education;

Education equivalent to a college degree in journalism, agriculture, or related field.

Experience:

• Experience with editorial content gathering and management.
• Five or more years of experience in writing and editing news across multiple communications platforms including online and print.
• Experience in supervising content writers and editors with divergent talents and personalities.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of news gathering and layout technology including QuarkXPress, Indesign and Photoshop.
• A basic respect for and understanding of the Farm Bureau organization.

Posted: April 2013

Account Executive

Hartland, WI

Company Description
Charleston|Orwig is a strategic communications consultant serving leading and emerging brands. We focus primarily on the food system—from agriculture through processing and distribution to the point of retail. Our business is divided into two complementary disciplines: Integrated Marketing—Creating demand, building brands and developing long-term value. Reputation Management—Building, strengthening and protecting an organization’s image (managing crisis as necessary).

Position Description
The person in this position will manage all aspects of account service.  As the client contact, the candidate will successfully learn and master C|O’s internal process.  They will partner with internal teams to deliver strategic plans and execute effective campaigns.  Further, they will execute ongoing project needs, while responsibly managing client and agency expectations and budgets.  The successful candidate will be flexible, creative and conceptual with the ability to work at a fast pace.  Prior agency experience is a plus.

What Makes This a Great Opportunity?
Being an employer of choice is one of our greatest strengths, with staff associates rating C|O as a “Best Place to Work.”  Our supportive atmosphere encourages long tenure in an industry known for quick turnover.
    •    Strategic communications consultant for leading brands in diverse industries since 1992
    •    Corporate culture of positive core values used to guide interaction with clients and each other
    •    Continuous improvement environment valuing ideas, collaboration and results
    •    Casual, friendly work environment
    •    Dog day Fridays – employees can bring their dogs to work with them on Fridays

Essential Responsibilities
    •    Meet with clients to discuss their communications needs
    •    Work with a team to devise a plan that meets the client’s brief and budget
    •    Present plan ideas and costing to clients
    •    Execute the client’s plan and ongoing requests
    •    Primary contact to the creative team who will produce the campaign
    •    Check and report progress to internal teams and the client
    •    Manage the account’s budget and invoice the client

Basic Qualifications
    •    3 - 5 years of experience, agency experience preferred
    •    Bachelor’s Degree required
    •    Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines
    •    Advanced MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook Skills

Desired Experience/Traits
    •    Strong spoken and written communication skills
    •    Excellent presentation and negotiation skills
    •    Confidence, tact and a persuasive manner
    •    Highly organized with good time management skills
    •    Ability to work with a variety of colleagues and clients
    •    Work well in a team environment
    •    Strong business sense with the ability to build and track budgets

Compensation
Charleston|Orwig provides a competitive salary along with a full range of employee benefits and a 401K.

For Further Information Contact
molly steffen, recruiter
C H A R L E S T O N | O R W I G
charlestonorwig.com
d: 262.563.5091   
m: 262.565.8135

Posted: March 2013

Executive Director

Missouri Beef Industry Council

Reports to the MBIC Board of Directors and serves as chief staff officer of the Council. Under policy direction from the Board, establishes, operates and evaluates programs; employs, trains and evaluates staff; and, is responsible for all operations and budgets of the organization.

Specific Tasks:

- Makes recommendations to the Board for the planning, implementation and evaluation of programs; develops and monitors budget; provides for all aspects of accountability and legal functioning of the organization.

- Coordinates with Missouri Department of Agriculture to administer and monitor the checkoff collection system; provides support in communications and relations with Beef Board, USDA and other oversight entities.

- Plans and manages a producer communications and industry communications program for the Council. Provides timely information to the Board; develops/screens funding proposals and recommendations for program activities.

- Represents MBIC to various industry, government and consumer audiences, as well as trade and consumer media.

- Manages the in-state programs of promotion, research, information and education as part of a nationally coordinated marketing plan.

- Is responsible for the employment, training, supervision and evaluation of a staff to carry out the programs and business of the organization.

- Maintains an effective public/industry relations program, including liaison with the Cattlemens Beef Promotion and Research Board, National Cattlemen Beef Association, U.S. Meat Export Federation and other state and national entities.

- Serves as assistant secretary-treasurer of MBIC and ensures that accurate and timely reports of financial and business activities are submitted to the Board.

Performs other related duties as assigned by the Board.

Needs to be present at the MBIC office during normal working hours, or as necessary at least five days per week unless away on MBIC activities.

Place of residence shall be within one hour of MBIC office.

Please e-mail resume to: chairman@mobeef.com

Posted: March 2013

Associate/Senior Associate

THIS POSITION WILL BE LOCATED IN WATERLOO, IOWA. Some assistance with relocation may be available.

Primary Purpose of this Position: This position is responsible for developing and implementing integrated communications projects and programs for Morgan & Myers clients. The immediate need is a candidate with strong technical writing skills to work on one large national account with the opportunity to add more accounts over time.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

• Recommend, develop and implement world-class communications programs that will help client achieve its objectives
• Implement assignments, including preparation and management of communications plans, interviews, research, writing, design direction
• Manage client activities to ensure project completion in a timely, cost-effective and high-quality manner
• On behalf of the client, build relationships with the media and other key stakeholder groups (influencers and associations) through use of appropriate PR techniques
• Support senior account personnel in client contact; handle the majority of day-to-day client contact, manage expectations and keep projects on course
• Monitor time and expenses on assigned accounts and contribute to invoice preparation
• Contribute to invoice preparation
• Contribute to preparation of budgets and income/expense projections
• Perform ongoing assignments under limited supervision
• Perform other duties as required by team leader

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in public relations, journalism or related communications field
• Strong writing and editing skills; technical writing abilities and interest is a plus
• 3 to 5 years experience in marketing communications ideal
• An interest in and understanding of agriculture is a must

Knowledge/Skill Qualifications:

• Strong project management skills, as well as writing, interviewing and editing skills
• Ability to understand and translate technical information into marketing communications tools
• Basic understanding of agricultural equipment and its applications, as well as geographic differences in crop production
• Knowledge of and ability to deal with agricultural issues and trends
• Excellent organizational abilities, utilizing personal skills, other people and material resources
• Extreme attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to remain cool under pressure
• Self-confident and takes pride in high-quality work
• Respect for and support of other team members
• Some travel required.
• The position will be located in Waterloo, Iowa. Some assistance with relocation may be available.

Please submit cover letter, resume and salary requirements to carol.shoberg@mranet.org listing Associate/Senior Associate in the subject line.

Posted: February 2013

The Creative Director:

Provides creative leadership for the firm in terms of:

• • Leading the creative process for each account team through creative brief approval to concepting to campaign execution
  • Overseeing creative execution of campaigns – traditional format and digital – to ensure the integrity of the brand look, feel and messaging stays intact and evolves as appropriate
  • Interaction with clients in terms of showcasing and selling creative
  • Developing alliances/partnerships with creative organizations or individuals to build the firm’s creative bandwidth, as well as leading the creative team on staff and those with whom we are currently aligning
  • Working with the Morgan & Myers management team to shape firm’s brand look, feel and story, and future vision; develop a creative identity for Morgan & Myers

• Responsible for contributions to, and participate on, a management team which is shaping our firm’s brand and future vision
• Keeps up on – and educates people in the firm on – latest trends in creative design and approach, plus incorporation into all communication mediums
• Provides idea generation as a part of account teams in terms of creative solutions to solve client problems. Is part of the brainstorming teams.
• Is responsible for meeting and exceeding both client and M&M expectations for high quality creative and cost-effective service
• Is a key component to new business efforts and will work with the management team to identify new business targets, develop plans for reaching targets, lead creative efforts for pitches, and be a part of the team pitch team as appropriate

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and guidance to the in-house creative department on-staff and those with
• Ensures that all creative work meets or exceeds internal and external client quality standards.
• Maintains billable profitability for him/herself and his/her team.
• Represents the agency at creative/professional/civic functions.

Morgan&Myers’ goal for the Creative Services group is to be indispensable to all clients by producing creative communications concepts and solutions that achieve desired results for our clients.

Our goal is to move from good creative to excellent creative.

Education/Experience

• BA or MA degree in Communications or equivalent
• 5 to 10 years experience, including 2 years of management/leadership experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Interest in or experience in agriculture, food or integrated marketing is a plus

Knowledge/Skills/Qualifications

• Strong project management skills, as well as writing, interviewing and editing skills
• Ability to understand and translate technical information into marketing communications tools
• Knowledge of and ability to deal with agricultural issues and trends
• Excellent organizational abilities, utilizing personal skills, other people and material resources
• Extreme attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to remain cool under pressure
• Self-confident and takes pride in high-quality work
• Respect for and support of other team members

Physical/Mental Demands: Ability to give, receive and analyze information, formulate work plans, prepare written materials, and articulate goals and action plans. Must understand people and be able to communicate effectively with them. Must be able to handle frequent high stress situations. Computer keyboarding and sitting at desk for extended periods of time are part of the daily responsibilities.

Special Working Conditions: Work in a typical office setting. Up to 10-20% travel required per year.

Please submit cover letter, resume and salary requirements to carol.shoberg@mranet.org listing Creative Director in the subject line.

Posted: February 2013

Public Relations Account Executive with
Beef/Livestock Experience

Provide day-to-day strategic direction and tactical execution of public relations activities for agency livestock clients.  This individual will coordinate the planning, development and execution of public relations programs in partnership with the advertising account service team. This individual will work collaboratively with other departments within the agency (media, creative, interactive, account service) to ensure PR activities are well-integrated into overall client marketing communication plans.

Position is based in Hartland, Wis.

Summary of Qualifications:
- 3-5 years professional experience in communications, marketing or journalism
- 1-2 years agency experience
- Livestock (beef or swine) experience/knowledge
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Solid understanding of PR strategy
- Ability to travel
- Good photography skills a plus

Interested parties should send their resume, three writing samples and references to Dave Harding at: dharding@charlestonorwig.com

Charleston|Orwig is a full-service communications consultant, providing integrated marketing and reputation management to agricultural and food system clients. To learn more, please visit www.charlestonorwig.com.

Posted: January 2013

Communications and Public Relations Intern

The American Angus Association Communications and Public Relations Department is accepting applications from college juniors or seniors studying journalism, agricultural communications or related fields. Applicants should have strong writing and design skills, in addition to completed coursework in news and feature writing, editing and design.

Experience in photography, video and social media is an asset in this fast-paced internship. The internship spans from approximately early-May to mid-August, with specific starting and ending dates depending on the applicant’s availability.

Applications are due Feb. 5, 2013. To apply, send a cover letter, resume, references and writing samples to Jena Thompson, assistant director of public relations, American Angus Association, 3201 Frederick Ave., Saint Joseph, MO 64506. For more information, contact Thompson at 816-383-5100 or jthompson@angus.org.

Posted: January 2013

Project Coordinator - Georgia Peanut Commission

Background:  Established in 1961, the Georgia Peanut Commission is a commodity checkoff board established as a governmental entity under Georgia State Law. We are funded by an assessment on peanut farmers and are charged with conducting programs in the areas of research, education, and promotion.

Position Description:  This is an entry level professional level position with room for advancement over time. Responsibilities will be broad and varied

Under the direction of the Commission’s Executive Director, this position would be responsible for assisting in most functions and activities of the Commission.

These areas of responsibility include: development, coordination, execution, and/or assistance (long—range or short term) as required by Executive Director in National Promotions, Regional Promotions, Export Promotions, Educational Programs, Research Programs, Legislation, and Marketing.

This person will be working under the supervision of the Commission’s Executive Director and in direct support of the Directors of Communication, Field Services, Research, and so forth.

Work responsibilities will be broad and varied and will entail serving in support of project activities and the appropriate project directors of the Commission.

Skill Sets:  working knowledge of Office Microsoft Programs such as Word, Excel, Power Point, Access, and Outlook. Must have general writing skills, including business correspondence, contracts, program and project presentation, and proposals. Reasoning ability for researching and developing position and discussion papers, editorials, press releases, and feature articles.

Also, should have knowledge of digital graphics, layout, design and copy and printed materials such as flyers, brochures, booklets, newsletters, periodicals, press kits, and ad slicks.

Candidates should have some ability to develop video presentations and radio: assemble image presentations with text, provide technical direction, write audio script, and voice over for embedded and integrated digital presentations.

General PR skills and ability to design and carry out specific project work is also desired.

Beside the normal activities of research, education, and promotion the Commission produces a magazine, the Southeastern Peanut Farmer magazine. The magazine is sponsored through the sale of ads. The Director of Communications may require assistance in acquiring and servicing advertisers. This area deserves special mention because the current staff is small and more resources need to be directed to insure keeping the publication as the premier peanut publication in the nation.

The Commission also does sponsored programs such as the Georgia Peanut Farm Show and seeking sponsors and servicing the sponsors may be a shared responsibility with others.

There will be some reimbursable travel involved in this position.

Employment process:  Candidates will go through screening tests and job interviews with program managers.

Screening tests will be to determine writing skills, problem solving ability, and project design.

Position closing:  The position will close February 15, 2013 or as soon after as a suitable candidate has been found.

Salary guidance:  Entry level BS is $36,000 plus employee health insurance and Georgia state retirement. More experienced candidates or candidates with advanced degrees will be considered accordingly with salary commensurate with education and experience.

How to apply:  Send a transcript or other proof of completion of degree(s) and a resume with work and educational experience and contact information to Don Koehler, Executive Director, Georgia Peanut Commission, P.O. Box 967. Tifton, GA  31793-0967. For inquiries, don@gapeanuts.com.

Posted: January 2013

Editor

Progressive Publishing in Jerome, Idaho, is seeking an experienced editor to help produce its Forage Grower and Progressive Dairyman magazines. He or she will join a successful, award-winning agriculture publishing team in our Idaho office.

The preferred candidate would have some experience in hay and corn silage production, cattle grazing and/or livestock feeding. Candidates with rock-solid editorial skills but with little ag experience will be considered. The candidate should have the ability to organize and lead other team members, attend to details, meet deadlines, coordinate multiple projects and communicate effectively, both verbally and in print.  Previous experience in writing, layout, copyediting, proofing or managing in-house and/or freelance writers a plus.

Offering competitive salary, 401k and a great work environment.

Send a cover letter and resume to natalie@progressivedairy.com
or fax to (208) 324-1133.

Posted: January 2013

Communications Intern

The Communications Department intern will assist with day-to-day activities that include print, audio and visual communications about the pork industry and related news on a national level.

Specific experiences include:
•Working with producers and in media relations at World Pork Expo and at the Ag Media Summit
•Assisting with development of Pork Checkoff news releases, Pork Checkoff’s national magazine Pork Checkoff Report, the national newsletter Pork Leader and the October Pork Month media kit
•Managing and creating weekly podcasts
•Contributing content to the Pork Checkoff’s Internet site and social media tools utilized by the Checkoff
•Assisting with special projects

Applicants must be interested in the pork industry.  Applicants will benefit from having an agricultural background and/or an academic emphasis in animal science, agriculture journalism, agricultural communications or journalism.  Photography skills, broadcasting skills and familiarity with AP style writing are a plus

*Applicants interested in the Communications position are required to send two writing samples with their resume.*

Criteria for applying:
 •Our internships will begin approximately May 13, 2013 and continue through approximately August 9, 2013.
•All internships are paid, and candidates are expected to work full-time for 13 weeks.  All positions are based at our office in Clive, Iowa.
•Positions will be filled by March.
•Please indicate in the subject line which internship you would like to be considered.
•Interested candidates should forward resume, cover letter, and writing samples if needed, via email to Intern@pork.org  (Microsoft Word or PDF formats only)
•No phone calls please.

Posted: January 2013

Contract/freelance work wanted

Agricultural journalist/public relations professional with 25 years experience looking for contract/freelance work to help “pay the bills.” Experience includes 15 years working as Media Relations Director for Montana Farm Bureau, handling all of the organization’s public relations and publications. Have served as editor/writer/ad salesperson for several horse magazines over the years. Additional work includes public and media relations for events, i.e. the State Fair of Virginia, the Indian Paintbrush Festival, Montana Farm Bureau conventions and special events, and most recently the Ag Technology Show in Billings, MT. Have worked for the non-agricultural sector, as well, having spent five years writing and designing a monthly newsletter for the Montana Contractors’ Association.

Interested? Let’s talk—or email! Call Rebecca Colnar, 307-461-0150, cowcamp@wavecom.net. Resume available by request.

A few additional facts: I am on the board of ARC and serve as their membership chair. I own/run a cow-calf operation in Custer, MT with my husband, and have my public relations business, Cow Camp Communications, based out of Sheridan, WY.