Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms)

As part of the Land Grant system, the University of Illinois was established to provide world-class education, pioneer research and discovery, and put learning and discovery into practice 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 with primary responsibility for the development, delivery, and evaluation of educational programs supporting the mission of the University of Illinois Extension.

One full-time position is available in Unit 26 – Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Randolph, and Williamson Counties (position will be housed in Perry or Jackson County). Additional positions may become available in other locations. This is a security-sensitive position requiring comprehensive background checks.

Responsibilities

• Focus on Local Food Systems within community-based production settings.
• Collaborate with Local Food Systems/Small Farms, Horticulture, and Family and Consumer Economics Extension Educators.
• Build networks among groups focused on local food production for emerging audiences.
• Provide research-based information and educational programs for growers, schools, decision-makers, and other stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver programs in:
  • Fruit and vegetable production
  • Food marketing initiatives
  • Food safety and Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs)
  • School and community gardens
  • Integrated pest management
• Build networks and increase collaboration with agriculture stakeholders.
• 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 collaborating with community organizations.
• Develop innovative curricula and programs to address local needs and align with broader state and national initiatives.
• Deliver high-impact programs using innovative delivery mechanisms to optimize reach and effectiveness.
• Guide program expansion and quality processes by training and supporting employees or volunteers.
• Evaluate program impact using statistically relevant methods, focusing on both short-term and long-term changes.
• 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.
• Establish professional relationships and participate in campus-based partnerships to complement Extension programming.
• Be an active member of a professional society to stay current in your discipline.
• Seek professional development opportunities to enhance subject matter competency.
• Use research and evaluation findings to create innovative programs and improve existing ones.
• 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 programming.

Requirements

• Master’s degree related to subject matter emphasis from an accredited institution (e.g., agricultural economics, agronomy, animal science, entomology, horticulture, plant pathology, soil science, or weed science). Other fields may be considered with relevant work experience.
• Master’s degree must be completed by hire date if currently in progress.
• Informal and/or formal teaching experiences.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Local, regional, and limited statewide travel required; personal transportation required.
• Ability to work evenings and/or weekends as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Work experience with agriculture.
• Work experience with agriculture research and/or demonstration.
• Ability to organize, manage, and conduct educational activities for adult audiences.
• Knowledge and experience in program planning, promotion, and resource development.
• Experience with University of Illinois Extension.

Skills

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

Working Conditions

• Exposure to various environmental factors, including hot or cold weather, noise, allergens, and uneven ground.
• Physical demands may include moving, transferring, or transporting items up to 40 pounds, with frequent lifting of up to 20 pounds, and twisting, pushing, and pulling movements.

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.