(Senior) Policy Officer for Manure Policy

Job Description

The work of the Manure Team is diverse, and there is a strong connection between the various issues the team handles. For example, the team is working on future manure policy and legislation regarding manure production. A key priority is implementing the seventh Nitrates Directive Action Program and the European derogation decision, with the aim of achieving the goals for improving water quality and implementing the measures outlined in the European derogation decision. An eighth Nitrates Directive Action Program is also being developed for the coming years, which will take effect in 2026. Additionally, efforts are underway to improve compliance and reduce the risk of manure-related fraud. In addition, the work has an important European component, as a large part of the regulations is European, and efforts are being made to implement a number of changes, such as the possibility of using fertilizer substitutes produced from animal manure. 

What will you be doing? We are looking to strengthen our team with a policy officer who will work flexibly on the topics listed above. The manure issue is subject to significant political and social dynamics. In the coming period, a number of measures will need to be implemented, both through the development of laws and regulations and in consultation with the implementing and enforcement agencies. You will be assigned to various dossiers, prepare administrative consultations, and contribute to letters to Parliament and debates. You can explain complex matters in an accessible way, are a strong writer, and enjoy doing so. You will also have the opportunity to work on European initiatives related to manure policy. We will determine exactly which dossiers you will work on in consultation with you and based on your background and experience. 

The PAV Directorate is a dynamic organization where a lot is happening. In consultation with your management team member, you can be flexibly assigned to projects in other teams within the directorate, while your own preferences and capabilities are, of course, taken into account. Are you looking to advance your career? The ministry offers plenty of training opportunities and avenues for growth. 

Job Requirements

You thrive on a challenge, enjoy working in a political and administrative environment, and take pleasure in helping to shape a transition. In hectic situations, you keep a cool head, set priorities, and maintain focus. You prefer to do this in collaboration with others. You have a flexible mindset, are a skilled networker, and know how to get things done. 

What else we ask for: 

• You have a bachelor's degree.
• You are interested in working at the intersection of policy-making, oversight, enforcement, and implementation.
• You have experience as a policy officer or a suitable background to work as a policy officer.
• An interest in agriculture is a plus.
• You have strong communication skills and are able to maintain a broad external network.

If you do not meet all the job requirements, we still encourage you to apply, and we look forward to reading in your cover letter what you need to perform this role. 

Skills: 

• Environmental awareness
• Planning and organizing
• Networking
• Collaborate
• Initiative
• Strong analytical skills
• Political and administrative sensitivity 

Terms of Employment

• Salary level: Grade 11
• Monthly salary: Min. €3,608 – Max. €5,503 (gross)
• Employment status: Permanent employment contract
• Minimum number of hours per week: 32
• Maximum number of hours per week: 36 

Other terms and conditions of employment

In addition to your salary, you will receive an Individual Choice Budget (ICB). The ICB consists of money (16.37% of your gross annual salary) and time. With the ICB, you can make choices that suit you and customize part of your employment benefits. For example, you can choose to have a portion of your monthly income paid out whenever you wish. You can also convert this budget into leave and vice versa, or spend it on tax-friendly purposes. The Dutch government is strongly committed to personal growth and career development and offers numerous opportunities for this. Secondary employment conditions include various study facilities, company fitness programs, full reimbursement of your public transportation costs for commuting, and partially paid parental leave. 

Details

• The introductory and selection process consists of at least two rounds of interviews and a final discussion regarding terms of employment.
• Checking references or conducting an assessment may be part of the selection process.
• Colleagues within the central government who are permanent employees may be seconded.
• If you do not (yet) have a permanent position as a civil servant, you will start with a temporary position with the prospect of a permanent one. 

What else do we offer you: 

• A pleasant work environment with excellent facilities, just a short walk from the central station.
• Plenty of opportunities to continue developing your skills and specialize.
• We believe it’s important to maintain a good work-life balance. Working hours can be arranged flexibly by mutual agreement.
• If you are hired, hybrid work is an option; you will work partly from home and partly at the office. We believe it is important to have a good home office setup. We therefore offer a subsidy for home office equipment and a work-from-home allowance in accordance with the Central Government Collective Labor Agreement (CAO Rijk). 

After the application deadline, the job posting and the employer’s contact information will no longer be visible online. To avoid having to request this information later, we ask that you download and save the job posting. 

We do not accept unsolicited applications for our job openings. 

Interested in applying?

The Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality / DG Agro (DGA) invites you to apply on their website. Clicking the button below will take you away from this site and directly to the application form. The government values a diverse and inclusive organization. Working in diverse teams makes us more effective, more innovative, and makes the work more enjoyable. Everyone is therefore invited to apply.