Market Development Specialist

Market Development Specialist Spokane, WA Job Details Full-time From $72,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Flexible schedule Life insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Project team coordination Stakeholder engagement Teamwork Economics Microsoft Excel Bachelor's degree in communications Market analysis Event coordination Writing skills Bachelor's degree in business Data reporting Project coordination Lead generation Bachelor's degree in economics Mid-level Driver's License Content creation Bachelor's degree Task prioritization Data interpretation Project implementation Participating in conferences Communications Agriculture Productivity software Data collection Agriculture Business Communication skills Technical Proficiency Marketing Stakeholder relationship building Stakeholder management Full Job Description Position Overview The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) is seeking a Market Development Specialist who is passionate about promoting the world's best grain and who will proudly represent Washington grain farmers. The Market Development Specialist supports the planning, coordination, and execution of market development programs that expand demand for Washington grain. This role works closely with the CEO and internal team to implement WGC's strategic initiatives, coordinate key programs and trade teams, and contributes to communications that highlight the quality, reliability, and value of Washington grain. This position is ideal for a highly organized, motivated professional who can manage projects, build relationships, and grow into increasing responsibility over time. The Market Development Specialist will initially receive guidance and direction from the CEO, with the opportunity to take on greater ownership of programs and initiatives as they develop in the role. Familiarity with the grain industry and previous market development experience is strongly preferred. WGC employees value clear and kind communication, embrace a growth mindset, and take seriously the stewardship of grower dollars. The WGC is an at-will employer.

Location:

Spokane, WA. Not considered a teleworking position, although some remote work is allowed.

Job Function:

Market Development, Agricultural Marketing Compensation:

Starting at $72,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Benefits:

https://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html Key Responsibilities Market Development In coordination with the CEO, support the development and execution of international and domestic market development programs that increase demand for Washington grain and showcase its quality and reliability. Assist in planning and coordinating trade team visits, grower outreach meetings, and market engagement activities, with increasing responsibility for leading components of these efforts over time. Program Coordination Coordinate logistics and implementation of WGC programs and events, including trade teams, grower meetings, and outreach initiatives. Ensure activities are well organized, executed on time, and aligned with WGC goals. Over time, take on greater responsibility for managing select programs independently. Communications Integration Partner with the Manager of Communications to support marketing and outreach efforts across digital and print platforms. Contribute to content development, storytelling, and program visibility by helping gather information, draft materials, and support production of communications that demonstrate value and impact to growers and stakeholders. Data and Reporting Collect and organize key industry data related to production, crop progress, exports, and market trends. Assist in preparing reports and summaries for internal use and external audiences. Support coordination of the annual crop quality sampling process in collaboration with industry partners and regional elevators. Strategic Support & Reporting Support the development and implementation of the market development components of the WGC Annual Plan. Assist in tracking metrics, compiling program outcomes, and contributing to reports that demonstrate the impact of WGC investments. Grow into a more active role in planning and evaluation over time. Travel Participate in meetings and conferences as needed; host trade teams; occasional overseas travel.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Project Coordination & Execution:

Demonstrated ability to organize, manage, and follow through on multiple projects or events with strong attention to detail and deadlines.

Communication Skills:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex information to a variety of audiences.

Relationship Building:

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders, including growers, industry partners, policymakers, and international customers, while navigating varying perspectives and priorities with professionalism and respect.

Organizational Skills:

Highly organized with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a dynamic environment.

Analytical Thinking:

Ability to gather, interpret, and present data in a clear and meaningful way to support decision-making and program evaluation.

Initiative & Growth Mindset:

Self-motivated with a willingness to learn, take direction, and gradually assume greater responsibility and ownership of programs over time.

Collaboration:

Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a small team, contributing to a positive and productive work environment.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with data tracking, reporting, and digital communication tools.

Preferred Experience:

Experience in agriculture, commodities, international trade, or market development programs Experience coordinating events, meetings, or stakeholder engagements Familiarity with marketing, communications, or content development Experience working with data analysis, reporting, or program evaluation Bachelor's degree in agriculture, business, communications, economics, or a related field Foreign language abilities. Special Requirements Frequent work outside of normal business hours. Domestic and international travel, and ability to maintain required documents. Valid driver's license.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee will be:

Sitting:

Constantly•entering computer data, talking on telephone

Standing/walking:

Constantly•On pavement, concrete, carpet, tile and linoleum

Crouching:

Occasionally•Lifting, perform tasks at low levels, putting supplies/materials away.

Kneeling/crawling:

Seldom•Checking computer wires and ports.

Stooping:

Occasionally. Reading monitors, lifting light objects, storing supplies or equipment

Twisting:

Frequently•Reading monitors, papers, interact with residents and/or co-workers Reaching (overhead/extension): Occasionally•Lifting manuals, tenant files, supplies

Handling/Grasping:

Constantly•Door handles, supplies, papers, keys, keyboarding, phone

Pushing/Pulling:

Seldom•Moving computer equipment or supplies

Lifting/carrying:

Seldom•Supplies, equipment, materials, Average weight 5 lbs, maximum weight 25 lbs.

Fingering/Feeling:

Constantly•Keyboarding, phone, handling papers, materials, keys

Climbing:

Occasionally•Stairs Leg/foot use: Constantly•Walking, climbing stairs

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is subjected to: Safety requirements: Adhere to company, and property safety and standards and procedures

Exposures:

Noise•general office noise (phones, normal tones of voice, typical downtown traffic) How to

Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents to : A cover letter outlining their relevant experience and interest in the position A current résumé Or•Apply via Indeed Application deadline: Application review will begin on April 17, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. The Washington Grain Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as defined by applicable laws. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact Human Resources at We value diversity in our workforce and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. About the WGC The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) is a state agency under the Washington State Department of Agriculture working to enhance the long-term profitability and competitiveness of Washington small grains and small grain producers through research, marketing, and education. Funded through the farmers we represent, the WGC advances the wheat and barley industries through public education, market development, and small grains research activities that a single farm would not be able to do on its own.

Pay:

From $72,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Spokane, WA 99224