Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Commercial Agriculture)

As part of the Land Grant system, the University of Illinois was established to provide world-class education, pioneer research and discovery, and apply learning to benefit the health and wellbeing of residents and communities across Illinois. Extension is the university’s statewide network of educators, faculty experts, and staff dedicated to that mission.

About the role

The Extension Educator serves as a full-time, 12-month academic professional responsible for the development, delivery, and evaluation of educational programs supporting the mission of University of Illinois Extension.

One full-time position is available in Unit 23 – Bond, Clinton, Jefferson, Marion, and Washington Counties (housed in Washington County – Nashville, IL). Additional positions may become available in other locations. This is a security-sensitive position requiring comprehensive background checks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research and outreach on the commercial production and management of field crops.
• Serve both the Extension Unit and the state in program delivery.
• Collaborate with campus-based specialists, faculty, and the Commercial Ag team on locally relevant research projects.
• Cooperate with campus faculty on pest surveys and share findings with stakeholders.
• Oversee selected Commercial Agriculture programs within the Unit and manage related regional and statewide duties.
• Provide program leadership, interpret and integrate information, and teach in the field of designated expertise.
• Assess the needs of local clientele in a systematic and analytical manner through networking and collaboration with community organizations.
• Develop innovative curricula and programs addressing local needs and aligning with broader state and national initiatives.
• Deliver high-impact programs using innovative delivery mechanisms to optimize reach and effectiveness.
• Guide program expansion and quality by training and supporting employees or volunteers.
• Evaluate program impact using statistically relevant methods, focusing on both short-term and long-term changes in clientele practices.
• Develop contemporary communication approaches, including electronic technologies (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, blogs, e-learning).
• Comply with all reporting deadlines and requirements (e.g., plans of work, activity and impact reporting).
• Market and represent Extension’s interests to external partners and stakeholders.
• Compete for internal and external resources to enhance program development and impact.
• Cooperate with the County Director to achieve budget goals, address staffing needs, and fulfill grant initiatives.
• Develop professional collaborations with the County Director, other Educators, and Extension Council Members.
• Support the total University of Illinois Extension program and accept statewide responsibilities as recommended.
• Serve as an effective team member and volunteer for leadership roles as appropriate.
• Lead unit teams under the direction of the County Director.
• Establish professional relationships and participate in campus-based partnerships to complement Extension programming.
• Be an active member of professional societies to stay current in the discipline.
• Seek professional development opportunities to enhance subject matter competency.
• Use research and evaluation findings to create innovative programs and improve existing ones.
• Share evidence-based best practices with peers.
• Assist unit staff with gathering program participant demographic information for civil rights reporting compliance.
• Perform other duties contributing to the mission of University of Illinois Extension.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited institution (e.g., field crop production, crop management, weed science, plant pathology, entomology). Other fields may be considered with relevant work experience.
• Master’s degree must be completed by hire date; candidates with a degree in progress may be considered for interviews.
• Experience with educational programs.
• Ability to earn or maintain active Certified Crop Advisor certification.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Local, regional, and limited statewide travel required; personal transportation required.
• Some work required during evenings and/or weekends.
• Ability to perform physical demands, including moving items up to 40 pounds, and working in various environmental conditions (e.g., hot/cold weather, uneven ground).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within crop sciences, including management of crops, soils, pests, and plant nutrients.
• Teaching experience in informal and formal settings.
• Experience with University of Illinois Extension.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work within a team environment and build/maintain networks.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Life Insurance.
• Retirement Plan.
• Paid Time Off.
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $59,000 to $82,000. The final salary offer will consider internal equity, candidate experience, qualifications, and budget constraints.

Schedule

This is a full-time, 12-month academic professional position with an expected start date as soon as possible after the closing date.