The ideal candidate will possess and be able to demonstrate key position-critical skills and abilities, including: in-depth knowledge and experience of food safety laws and regulations; the ability to communicate effectively (oral, presentations, writing); the ability to provide leadership; the ability to project confidence; the ability to utilize and implement sound decision-making skills; a professional demeanor and composure in all situations; the ability to work with a wide variety of customers and stakeholders - both internal and external; the ability to serve as a resource and technical expert in the area of emergency management planning and response related to food safety; and, the ability to effectively and successfully forecast, plan, direct, and implement work assignments and projects. More About MDARD: The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is comprised of four Bureaus that use a customer-driven, solution-oriented approach to cultivate and expand new economic opportunities for the food and agricultural sector; safeguard the publics food supply; inspect and enforce sound animal health practices; control and eradicate plant pests and diseases threatening the $125.8 billion food and agriculture system; preserve the environment by which the farming community makes their living and feeds consumers; and protect consumers by enforcing laws relating to weights and measures.