International Marketing Program Manager - Internal

International Marketing Program Manager - Internal

Salary

$79,944.00 - $142,512.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Multiple Locations, WA

Job Type

Agency Internal - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-04722

Department

Dept. of Agriculture

Division

Farm and Food Systems Development - International Marketing

Opening Date

06/22/2026

Closing Date

6/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

AGRICULTURE - A Cornerstone of Washingtons Economy

The Washington State Department of Agriculture has been serving the state for more than 100 years. Through service, regulation, and advocacy, we keep agriculture viable and vital in Washington State, while protecting consumers, public health, and the environment. We work extensively with farmers and ranchers, but our responsibilities - from ensuring food safety to environmental protection - touch the lives of millions of people locally, nationally, and abroad.

The agency includes 780 employees approximately and grows close to 1,000 employees at the peak of seasonal work. To learn more and view additional openings, please visit our Employment Page.

The Opportunity

The Farm & Food Systems Development Division is dedicated to strengthening the food systems and economic viability of Washington agriculture. The programs in this division support consumers, farmers, and food businesses through service, assistance, and advocacy advancing the vision that agriculture thrives while contributing to the health of the people and the economy of Washington.

The International Marketing Program was established to help Washington businesses expand their food and agricultural exports around the world. The Program provides a variety of export development and assistance services to businesses including education, connections to foreign buyers, and help with navigating regulations. The Program also conducts marketing initiatives that promote Washington agriculture in foreign markets and continually works to address trade barriers that prevent or limit foreign market access for Washington products.

The International Marketing Program Manager is responsible for the development and implementation of a cohesive trade development strategy for the benefit of Washington's food and agriculture industry, aligning it with the states overall international trade efforts in collaboration with the Office of the Governor, the Department of Commerce, other WSDA programs, commodity commissions, and the larger food and agricultural community. The position influences and oversees all aspects of WSDAs International Marketing Program, including strategic planning, budget and legislative issues, staff supervision and development, contract and grant management, and stakeholder relations. The position also serves as the Director's advisor on agricultural trade policy and works closely with industry stakeholders to ensure a strong understanding of their needs and priorities. The position directly supports the agency's mission of advocacy, ensuring that agriculture remains viable in Washington State.

Position and Salary Information

WSDA is recruiting for a full-time permanent WMS Band 3 position within the Farm & Food Systems Development Division. This position is not represented.

The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the preferred candidates job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The typical starting salary range for this position is: $79,944 - $142,512 annually.

Duties

What to Expect

Some of the various responsibilities within this role:

• Strategic Planning and Implementation: Develop and implement a strategic plan to increase exports of Washington States agricultural and food products in collaboration with business and industry stakeholders.
• Program Operations: Administer overall program operations and ensures plan, program, activities, and policies are effectively carried out. Establish priorities for staff and contractors and ensure program activities and events are run efficiently and effectively, including but not limited to outbound and inbound trade missions, trade shows, international trade representative visits, agricultural promotions, incoming government delegations, outreach, and export education.
• Budget Management: Prepare and oversee the programs budget, allocate resources, and seek additional funding to address program needs.
• Management of International Trade Representatives: Responsible for procuring and managing contracted international trade representatives to help Washington agricultural companies facilitate export, conduct matchmaking and promotional activities, and help resolve trade barrier issues. Collect stakeholder feedback on needs and markets of interest, coordinate and manage the Request for Proposals (RFP) process in alignment with state procurement rules and ensure that hired trade representatives fulfill contract obligations.
• Grant Procurement and Management: Seek and obtain outside financial resources and grants, including USDA Market Access Program (MAP), Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP), America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP), Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP) and other grants that are pertinent to the programs goals. Administers grants in accordance with grant requirements.
• Collaboration: Work on trade issues and agricultural marketing activities in collaboration with state, federal, and foreign agencies, industry associations, and agricultural stakeholders. Key partners include the Governors Office, Department of Commerce, commodity commissions, agricultural organizations, the Western U.S. Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA), trade and economic development organizations, the Northwest Seaport Alliance, the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and the USDA Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS).
• Oversee Trade Policy and Market Access issues: Responsible for tracking, understanding, and reporting-on market access and trade policy issues that affect Washingtons agricultural industry. Serve as the Director's advisor on international trade policy issues and assist in the agencys communication efforts as they relate to foreign trade. Work closely with the Governor's Director of International Affairs & Protocol and track trade policy issues for state trade missions and incoming government delegations. Track trade barriers and work with other states and USDA to address trade issues.
• Legislative and Policy Lead for International Trade and Marketing: Responsible for tracking and reporting on legislative issues pertinent to international trade and marketing. Prepare presentations, reports and other materials as needed on legislative and policy issues. Appear before legislative committees or other policy committees as needed.
• Export Statistics: Responsible for the ongoing collection, analysis, and reporting of Washington's food and agriculture export statistics including determining the collection methodology and overseeing annual publication.
• WUSATA Representative: Serve as the Washington State Marketing Official (SMO) for the Western United States Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA) and serve on committees that determine policies for the implementation of marketing activities.
• Government Trade Missions: Organizes and implements Government Trade Missions, including working with the Governors Office, Lieutenant Governor's Office, Department of Commerce, Association of Washington Business, and others as appropriate to ascertain purpose and goal of the mission; working with WSDAs overseas representatives, U.S. embassies, foreign government officials and industry groups to develop and implement an agenda to promote Washington agriculture and address trade barriers; and prepare information and talking points for the WSDA Director and others as-needed.
• External Outreach and Communication: Serve as the spokesperson and liaison for agricultural international trade development for the state of Washington. Work to cultivate external relationships with other agencies, legislators, stakeholders, USDA, other states, WUSATA, and other partners to optimize support for international trade opportunities.
• Supervises and Develops Staff: Oversee and effectively distribute program work; coach and mentor staff through regular feedback, instruction, and encouragement. Assure appropriate and optimum use of the programs resources and enhance the effectiveness of employees through timely appraisal and professional development opportunities. Address and resolve conflicts. Evaluate staff performance and addresses concerns. Support effective communication throughout the program.
• Maintain the highest standard of professional and ethical conduct.

Qualifications

Who should apply?

Professionals with:

• Bachelor's degree or higher or four (4) years of professional experience in international trade, agricultural business development, agricultural marketing, or a related field.
• Supervisory or management experience.
• Experience managing financial resources and budgets.
• Experience managing contracts and/or grants.
• Experience managing complex, collaborative projects.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills with the ability to work effectively with executive leadership, policy makers, and industry stakeholders.
• Strong ability to analyze complex regulatory and policy issues and develop strategic solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to represent local, state, or federal agencies on behalf of executive leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in public presentations, in meetings and one-on-one discussions, and in written documents.
• Demonstrated ability to cooperatively work with disparate groups to find practical and effective solutions to

problems.

• Demonstrated ability to solve problems independently, analyze and make effective decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion and judgment in solving, implementing and applying solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with multiple competing priorities and time constraints.
• History of strong leadership competencies and high-level professional skills.

Preferred/Desired Education, Experience, and Competencies:

• Prior experience as a state or federal International Trade Specialist or similar position.
• Working knowledge of the export process for food or agricultural products.
• Working knowledge of agricultural trade policy.
• Experience developing and implementing strategic plans.
• Experience managing international trade missions.
• Experience using Salesforce or other customer relationship management software.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

• Ability to obtain Washington State Drivers License and U.S. Passport.

Supplemental Information

Employee Benefits

• A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules, and teleworking.
• WSDA provides an excellent benefits package beyond traditional benefits. State employment offers Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave; click here for more information.
• 12 paid Holidays & Vacation and Leave Accruals.
• All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required will be provided by the agency.

How to apply

You must complete your careers.wa.gov profile and answer the supplemental questions. In addition to completing the online application, and supplemental questions applicants must attach the following documents to their profile to be considered for this position:

• A cover letter describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position
• Three professional references

By submitting these materials, you are indicating that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Any untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from the applicant pool or dismissal if employed.

If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com.

The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified, and documentation may be required. Applications received via e-mail will not be accepted in lieu of applying through the states on-line recruitment system.

WSDA uses a I-9 form(Download PDF reader) to determine Employment Eligibility and Verification, once hired. This document is the authorization of an individual's ability to be hired for employment within the United States. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.

Equity at WSDA

The Department of Agriculture recognizes, appreciates, supports, embraces, and respects all cultural identities and backgrounds while we collaborate in authentic ways. We hire amazing people that share in the commitment to our Pro-Equity Anti-Racist (PEAR) strategic plan, our Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act implementation plan, and our unique needs and desires for belonging, respect, and inclusion. We value the growth and development of our team members by providing equitable access to resources and opportunities for continuous learning, improvement, and advancement.

We strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a productive and dedicated workforce that reflects the communities we serve while we are committed to a workplace that celebrates our differences and supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Contact Us

Should you have any questions regarding this position or the online application, contact the Human Resource Office at Recruitment@agr.wa.gov.

Prior to a new appointment with the Department of Agriculture, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.

The Human Resources Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.

Veterans Preference: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veterans Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security numbers. For additional information on Veterans Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

People with a disability, who need assistance with their application or need this announcement in an alternative format, may call 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.

For more information about the Washington State Department of Agriculture, visit us at www.agr.wa.gov.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Your preferred name:

02

Your pronoun(s):

03

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?

• Yes
• No

04

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status?

• Yes
• No

05

When was the last time you intentionally learned about someone else's culture or lived experience that differs from your own? What did you learn from the experience? Share in your own words (150 words or less, not AI generated).

06

Describe a situation where you had to adapt your usual way of doing things to better serve someone or a group of people with a background different than your own. What did you change, what was the outcome? Share in your own words (150 words or less, not AI generated).

07

To be considered for this position you must attach a cover letter and three professional references. Have you attached or included these documents to your application?

• Yes
• No

08

This opportunity is for current internal WSDA employees. Are you a WSDA employee?

• Yes
• No

09

Do you have a bachelor's degree or higher or four (4) years of professional experience in international trade, agricultural business development, agricultural marketing, or a related field.

• Yes
• No

10

Do you have supervisory or management experience?

• Yes
• No

11

If you answered "Yes" to the question above, please briefly describe your supervisory or management experience. If you answered "No", please write N/A in the box below.

12

Are you able to obtain and maintain a Washington State Drivers License and U.S. Passport?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov