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Education Program Consultant (USDA School Nutrition Programs-Communications)

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Education Program Consultant (USDA School Nutrition Programs-Communications)

Salary

$66,726.40 - $103,147.20 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-01632

Agency

282 Iowa Department of Education

Opening Date

12/22/2025

Closing Date

1/6/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

[email protected]

To Apply

To ensure full consideration for this position, all requested materials must be completed and uploaded through the NEOGov online application process.

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

Job Description

Iowa Department of Education’s mission is ensuring all students experience a world-class education. To accomplish our mission, we need talented, passionate people working together to build an excellent education system that empowers all students to achieve their full potential.

The Iowa Department of Education seeks a dedicated Education Program Consultant responsible for coordinating communications, providing technical assistance and conducting procurement and administrative reviews for USDA Child Nutrition Programs. This position will be an integral member of the Bureau of Nutrition and Health Services Data, Reporting and Program Support Team.

Your Responsibilities:

+ Serve as the Bureau staff person specializing in Communications for the USDA School Meal Programs and the Summer Food Service Program. Coordinate group email messaging, social media, press releases and informational articles with bureau team leads, section chief, bureau chief and Bureau of Communications & Information Services team. Develop resources and write and review articles for School Nutrition Programs. Manage School Nutrition Email Distribution Lists. Assist with bureau webpage updates and overall review of bureau webpages. Develop, write and update manuals, handbooks, newsletters and memos.

+ Coordinate opportunities to promote school meals and school wellness. Coordinate content and presentations for bureau team members. Manage promotion and registration of training events in coordination with school meals training coordinator.

+ Complete grant applications. Assist grant coordinator with grant submissions, as needed. Track work plans and budgets for assigned grant projects. Complete grant budget and program reporting. Manage contracts.

+ Review and approve annual web-based program applications. Conduct procurement and administrative reviews of the USDA School Meal Programs, Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option, as assigned, for compliance with all Federal and State regulations and provide guidance governing participation in these programs. Assist with administration and implementation of other USDA programs, as requested,

+ Provide schools with technical assistance, resources, training, and best practices to create and maintain a healthier environment including the implementation of wellness policies and school breakfast expansion, promotion of school meals and development and distribution of resources to address food insecurity.

Candidates are encouraged to include detailed information about their relevant experience in their application, or submit a cover letter and resume in addition to their application.

If you wish to review a copy of the Position Description Questionnaire, please [email protected].

Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday; some nights and weekends, occasional in-state and out-of-state travel

A successful candidate will bring or have the ability and desire to learn:

+ Passion for accomplishing common goals in pursuit of public service

+ Strong technical skills

+ Strategic and analytical mindset

+ Knowledge and experience with coordinating the development of legislation, administrative rules, and legislative proposals

+ Ability to work collaboratively on, and provide leadership for, high-performing teams

+ Ability to work independently, moving projects forward with minimal supervision

+ Ability to work in complex situations and meet deadlines while leading teams as a non-traditional leader (no supervisory authority)

+ Experience providing technical assistance and professional learning to educators

+ Ability to manage self in relation to prioritization and time management

+ Strong written and verbal communication skills

+ Ability to interpret and break down highly technical and regulatory language, and present information in an understandable manner

+ Conflict resolution and interpersonal skills

+ Desire to work with diverse teams and stakeholders

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

+ Experience developing and editing written communications;

+ Experience developing and presenting materials for adult learners.

+ Ability to keep multiple projects moving forward at the same time and meet deadlines;

+ Ability to work in an environment where the individual may be receiving guidance and direction from multiple individuals;

+ Experience being detail-oriented with ability to apply established procedures and requirements into practice with speed and accuracy;

+ Willing to travel and willingness to remain out of home location overnight on occasion as the job requires (primarily in-state travel);

+ Proficiency with office software applications, e.g. word processing, spreadsheets, and ability to learn other custom software applications including web-based systems, and nutrient analysis;

+ Experience in government regulation implementation;

+ Ability to convey required corrective action while maintaining a positive working relationship

+ Experience working with USDA Child Nutrition Programs preferred.

+ Registered dietitian preferred

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

+ Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the lives of children, their families, and Iowa communities

+ Collaborative, positive work environment

+ Talented and passionate work colleagues that will help you learn and grow

+ Opportunities to collaborate with experts from around the country

+ Employee discounts from a variety of vendors

+ Competitive salary and benefits package:

https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/employment/Benefits\_Beyond\_the\_Paycheck.pdf

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visitwww.e-verify.gov.

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 and five years of full-time post-graduate work experience in any one or a combination of the following areas:

a. Professional training, teaching, or counseling experience in an educational setting;

b. Professional administrative experience in an educational setting;

c. Professional finance, accounting, or auditing experience, including the preparation or analysis of financial statements;

d. Professional experience in a major technical program area housed within the Iowa Department of Education;

e. Professional data integration, data analysis, and statistical analysis experience;

f. Professional communications experience, including public relations, marketing, or journalism;

g. Professional school safety and emergency preparedness experience.

2) A combination of a total of five years of post-graduate education and full-time experience (as described in number one), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited post-graduate college or university course work equals one year of full-time experience.

3) Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s degree, possession of a valid Iowa Teaching Certificate, and three academic years of teaching and/or administrative experience in PK-12 and/or a post-secondary educational institution.

4) Possession of a School Business Official Authorization from the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and seven years of full-time professional experience in finance, accounting, or auditing, including the preparation or analysis of financial statements.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\_and\_pay/JobClassDescriptions/EducationProgramConsultant-01071.pdf)

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-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .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 (https://ipers.org/members) .

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.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

+ Yes - I understand and agree.

+ No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

+ No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

+ Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree, or Higher? IF YES, how many years do you have of full-time postgraduate work experience in any one or a combination of the following areas: a. Professional training, teaching, or counseling experience in an educational setting; b. Professional administrative experience in an educational setting; c. Professional finance, accounting, or auditing experience, including the preparation or analysis of financial statements; d. Professional experience in a major technical program area housed within the Iowa Department of Education. e. Professional data integration, data analysis, and statistical analysis experience; f. Professional communications experience, including public relations, marketing, or journalism. g. Professional school safety and emergency preparedness experience

+ Not applicable – I do not have a Bachelor's Degree or higher with the identified areas

+ No experience in the identified areas

+ Less than two years of experience in the identified areas

+ Two years to less than four years of experience in the identified areas.

+ Four to less than five years of experience in the identified areas.

+ Five or more years of experience in the identified areas

04

How many years do you have of a combination of post-graduate education and full-time experience in a. Professional training, teaching, or counseling experience in an educational setting; b. Professional administrative experience in an educational setting; c. Professional finance, accounting, or auditing experience, including the preparation or analysis of financial statements; d. Professional experience in a major technical program area housed within the Iowa Department of Education. e. Professional data integration, data analysis, and statistical analysis experience; f. Professional communications experience, including public relations, marketing, or journalism. g. Professional school safety and emergency preparedness experience. ****Twenty-four semester hours of accredited post-graduate college or university course work equals one year of full-time experience.

+ Not applicable – I do not have a post-graduate education with the experience in the identified areas.

+ No post-graduate education or experience in the identified area

+ Less than two years of post-graduate education and/or experience in the identified areas

+ Two years to less than four years of post-graduate education and/or experience in the identified areas.

+ Four years to less than five years of post-graduate education and/or experience in the identified areas.

+ Five or more years of post-graduate education and/or experience in the identified areas

05

Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree, or higher and have a valid possession of a valid Iowa Teaching Certificate? IF YES, how many years do you have of full-time teaching and/or administrative experience in PK-12 and/or a post-secondary educational institution?

+ No experience in the identified areas

+ Less than one year of experience in the identified areas

+ One years to less than Three years of experience in the identified areas.

+ Three or more years of experience in the identified areas

06

Do you have, or have had, a BoEE License?

+ Yes

+ No

07

Has there been probable cause, suspension, revocation or disiplinary action taken against you?

+ Yes

+ No

08

If you answered "YES" above, please describe:

09

Which best describes your education and experience? (If multiple responses apply for you, please choose the one option that best describes your experience)

+ Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) OR 4+ years of work experience with a major/emphasis in a Human Services related field (e.g., social work, counseling, public administration, human resources, communications, criminal justice, paralegal)

+ Associate’s Degree OR 2 to <4 years of work experience with a major/emphasis in a Human Services related field (e.g., social work, counseling, public administration, human resources, communications, criminal justice, paralegal)

+ Less than 2 years of work experience with a major/emphasis in a Human Services related field (e.g., social work, counseling, public administration, human resources, communications, criminal justice, paralegal)

+ NA

10

How many years of full-time work experience do you have communicating with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs?

+ 5 or more years of experience

+ 4 years to less than 5 years experience

+ 3 years to less than 4 years experience

+ 2 years to less than 3 years experience

+ 1 year to less than 2 years experience

+ Less than one year experience

+ NA

11

How many years of full-time work experience do you have in determining eligibility, need, and benefits (or similar experience) for a client?

+ 5 or more years of experience

+ 4 years to less than 5 years experience

+ 3 years to less than 4 years experience

+ 2 years to less than 3 years experience

+ 1 year to less than 2 years experience

+ Less than one year experience

+ NA

12

How many years of full-time work experience do you have utilizing independent judgment to make correct decisions based on information received?

+ 5 or more years of experience

+ 4 years to less than 5 years experience

+ 3 years to less than 4 years experience

+ 2 years to less than 3 years experience

+ 1 year to less than 2 years experience

+ Less than one year experience

+ NA

13

How many years of full-time work experience do you have interpreting information received and determining whether it meets criteria found in various policies or regulations?

+ 5 or more years of experience

+ 4 years to less than 5 years experience

+ 3 years to less than 4 years experience

+ 2 years to less than 3 years experience

+ 1 year to less than 2 years experience

+ Less than one year experience

+ NA

14

How many years of full-time work experience do you have utilizing computer systems to document information while simultaneously obtaining it from the caller?

+ 5 or more years of experience

+ 4 years to less than 5 years experience

+ 3 years to less than 4 years experience

+ 2 years to less than 3 years experience

+ 1 year to less than 2 years experience

+ Less than one year experience

+ NA

Required Question

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

282 Iowa Department of Education

Address

Grimes State Office Building

400 E 14th St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website

https://www.educateiowa.gov/

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