Initial Posting Date:

06/03/2026

Application Deadline:

06/14/2026

Agency:

Department of Agriculture

Salary Range:

$3,798 - $5,193

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Administrative Specialist 1(Water Quality Program Assistant)

Job Description:

Are you looking to join a team of passionate professionals? Do you have a quality general knowledge of data entry, customer service, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask? Apply today and begin your career as an Administrative Specialist 1. The Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Water Quality Program is currently recruiting for one Administrative Specialist 1 position.

What you’ll be doing

As the Administrative Specialist 1 (Water Quality Program Assistant) in the Water Quality Program, you will be the first point of contact for individuals, agricultural operators, and stakeholders seeking information related to water quality rules, program requirements, and compliance assistance. You will provide vital administrative support while ensuring that inquiries are addressed promptly and accurately. This role includes:

• Provide support for the Water Quality Program by responding to phone calls and emails, supplying non-technical information, and assigning inquiries to appropriate staff in accordance with program guidelines.

• Prepare and process correspondence and compliance-related documents by formatting, assembling packets, and preparing materials for distribution using established procedures.

• Coordinate CAFO Advisory Committee meetings by identifying attendees and drafting agenda topics. Attend meeting to coordinate the process of preparing materials, taking notes, and arranging logistics such as meeting space, supplies, and mailings.

• Assisting with other office tasks such as maintaining records, scheduling meetings, and supporting other administrative functions as needed to ensure the smooth operation of the program.

The Administrative Specialist 1 (Water Quality Program Assistant) is a full-time permanent position, there is no option for hybrid work during your trail service period this position follows a Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM work schedule. This position is in Salem, Oregon.

Click here to view a full description of this position.

What we’re looking for:

Two years of secretarial or basic administrative support experience that includes records processing, generating documents, and gathering and sorting data.

OR

An associate degree in general office occupations and one year of experience with records processing, generating documents, and gathering and sorting data.

OR

An equivalent combination of education and experience.

What we are looking for (Desired Attributes):

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, particularly when handling sensitive regulatory documentation, operator records, compliance tracking, and correspondence that may be used for official or legal purposes.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft, proofread, and format correspondence such as notices, letters and standard regulatory communication to regulated entities and the public.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat) and comfort working in shared systems, trackers, and database environments used for program administration.

• Ability to learn and adapt to multiple established workflows, including shifts in procedures, systems updates, databases, and equipment.

• Ability to track and route work assignment’s using established systems or shared inboxes, ensuring tasks are completed, followed up on, and properly documented within defined procedures

Projected Recruitment Timeline

• Recruitment Closes: June,14, 2026

• 1st Round Interview may start: June 22, 2026

• 2nd Round if needed may start: TBD

• *These dates are approximate and may change. *

How to apply:

Required: A cover letter & resume is required and is an important part of the application process. All application materials are reviewed by Human Resources, the Hiring Manager, and panel members throughout the recruitment process. Your cover letter & resume is a key opportunity to speak directly to each decision-maker, highlight your skills and experience. In your cover letter, please describe your experience managing multiple tasks with competing deadlines in an administrative or operational environment. Include how you prioritized work, the systems or tools you used to track assignments, and how you ensured accuracy and timely completion. Your cover letter must be no more than two pages. Failure to attach a cover letter and resume may result in the disqualification of your application.

• Upon submitting your application, please be sure to check your Workday account for additional tasks to complete such as questionnaires and to request veteran’s preferences (if applicable).

• Veterans: We value the dedication of Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members! Take advantage of Veterans’ Preference by submitting the required documentation at time of application. The requirements can be found on the Veterans' Resources page under “Qualifying for Veterans’ Preference.”

• Current state employees – please apply through your employee Workday account.

How are candidates selected?

The selection process consists of a reviewing your application materials, including an evaluation of your education, experience, training, and overall professionalism. Candidates who follow the application instructions, submit the required documents and demonstrate how they meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to an interview. Only the requested documents will be reviewed. Attention to detail is important, and your application materials will be evaluated for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Learn more about the Oregon Department of Agriculture:

At ODA, employees work with a dynamic and supportive team of mission-focused individuals tasked with ensuring healthy natural resources, environment, and economy for Oregonians now and in the future through inspection and certification, regulation, and promotion of agriculture and food. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are embedded in ODA’s core values. Employees at all levels of the agency work together to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Learn more about what we do here!

What’s in it for you

The State of Oregon offers a competitive and affordable health and benefits package, including excellent medical, vision and dental coverage, paid holidays off, and personal business leave, as well as paid and accrued vacation leave and sick leave. In addition to standard medical benefits and employee leave, the state also provides additional optional benefits, such as basic life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, deferred compensation savings program, and flexible spending accounts for health care and childcare expenses. More information is available from the Public Employees Benefit Board.

Additional Information:

• This position is represented by SEIU.

• Current state employees, please apply through your employee Workday account.

• Per the Pay Equity Law passed in 2017, an equal pay analysis will be conducted to determine the compensation of the successful candidate. The analysis will be based on the relevant experience, education, training, and certifications documented in the application materials.

• United States Employment Eligibility: The Oregon Department of Agriculture does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, all applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's Form I-9, confirming authorization to work in the United States. The Oregon Employment Department is an E-Verify employer. If you are the successful candidate, you must present your I-9 acceptable documents (See page 3) for employment verification.

This recruitment may be used to fill current and future Permanent, Limited Duration, Job Rotation and Temporary vacancies as they occur.

Questions/Need Help?

If you have questions about the recruitment or need an accommodation for the recruitment process, please email to: oda.recruitment@oda.oregon.gov or call 503-986-4584.