Overview
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has exciting and unique career opportunities for individuals with a broad range of backgrounds. If you are interested in agriculture, the economy, public health, animals, and the environment, then a career with the Department might be for you.
Our work focuses on enhancing the quality of life for the people of New York State by supporting the production of high-quality and diverse agricultural products; ensuring a safe, nutritious and accessible food supply; providing economic opportunities for farms and rural residents; fostering agricultural environmental stewardship; and safeguarding New York State’s land and livestock.
Who We Are





Milk Control and Food Safety staff travel New York to ensure the safety of our food supply from producer to consumer, and protect the health of New Yorkers.
Scientists at the Food Laboratory provide expert, state-of-the-art analytical testing in support of food safety across New York.
State veterinarians work to ensure the health and safety of animals, from livestock to dogs, cats, and more.
Staff in the Division of Agricultural Development work to market and promote our farmers and food and beverage businesses, including helping with the Taste NY stores across the state.
Through trainings, webinars, conferences, and more, Department staff always have the opportunity to work as a team and brainstorm together.
Staff in the Division of Plant Industry conduct inspections of nurseries, orchards, greenhouses, saw mills, apiaries, and more.
Employment with New York State
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets provides rewarding career opportunities for individuals with a broad range of backgrounds.
Most state jobs are divided into two categories – competitive and non-competitive.
- Competitive Jobs (exam required):
- You must take and pass a civil service exam before applying for a competitive job.
- Applying for the specific position comes after you sign up, take, and receive your exam results - a process that takes at least 90 days.
- Non-Competitive Jobs (no exam required):
- You must meet the qualifications for non-competitive jobs, but do not need to take an exam. These positions are generally filled by people with professional licenses, trade skills, or other specific qualifications.
Visit the NY.Gov page for information concerning exams and the hiring process, and how to find a job in New York State Government.
Current Employment Opportunities
The Department offers a variety of employment opportunities in a number of occupational categories. Our job postings are listed on State Jobs NY. Each individual posting provides specific information on duties, qualifications, salary, and how to apply.
Employment for Persons with Disabilities
The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply to all jobs that they are qualified to do. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity, and reasonable accommodations and/or modifications as necessary, for qualified persons with disabilities.
Learn more about the Governor's Program to Hire Individuals and Veterans with Disabilities for more information on specialized programs designed to help place individuals with disabilities in state jobs.
Employee Benefits
Permanent, full-time New York State employees are eligible for several attractive benefits.
- Vacation, holiday, sick, and personal leave
- Generous leave benefits include 13 days of paid vacation leave in the first year of employment with bonus days for additional years of service; 12 days annual paid holidays; five days annual paid personal leave; and 13 days of annual paid sick leave.
- Health Care Coverage
- A choice of quality health insurance plans is available at an affordable, low premium cost to all employees and their families through enrollment in the Empire Plan or a variety of Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs).
- Retirement Plan
- Full-time employees are offered a superior plan that provides secure retirement income with vesting after 10 years of service.
- Payroll Deduction Savings Plans
- A variety of savings plans are available through payroll deduction, including the Deferred Compensation plan, the U.S. Savings Bonds Payroll Savings plan, and New York's College Savings Program.
- New York State Flex Spending Account (FSA)
- The FSA account offers two opportunities for pre-tax savings: the Dependent Care Advantage Account and the Health Care Spending Account.
- Tuition Assistance Programs
- A variety of tuition voucher and reimbursement opportunities are offered through negotiated agreements with employee unions.
- Life Insurance and Disability Insurance
- Certain employees may purchase a group-term life insurance policy. Additionally, employees who participate in the Income Protection Plan are covered for short-term and long-term disability benefits.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- The EAP is an assessment and referral service that can connect employees with local service providers and support services to help them address their personal needs.
- Employee Wellness Program (EWP)
- The EWP offers all state employees various lunchtime activities, including yoga, exercise, meditation, CPR training, and stress management seminars.
Student Internships
Individual programs within the Department may sponsor student internship experiences. All student internships are posted on the Statewide Student Internship Portal.
Contact the Division of Human Resources Management
Contact us by phone:
Contact us by email:
Mailing Address:
The New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets
10B Airline Drive
Albany, New York 12235