Extension Educator - Crops

About the role

This Extension Educator position will enhance Minnesota’s cropping systems by applying expertise through Extension educational programming for agricultural professionals and crop producers. The role involves program development, delivery, marketing, evaluation, and leadership, using research, partnerships, and technology. The position is part of the University of Minnesota Extension Crops Team, contributing to programs on agronomy, pesticide safety, soil fertility, sustainability, and integrated pest management, with a focus on the Institute for Agricultural Professionals (IAP).

Location and work environment

The position will be based in a University of Minnesota Extension Regional Office in Central/Eastern Minnesota, with preferred locations including Anoka, Farmington, St. Cloud, or Mankato. The role is on-site and in-person, with hybrid arrangements possible (up to two remote days per week). Travel requirements include local day trips every other week, statewide day trips 3–4 times per month, overnight trips within Minnesota 1–2 times per month, and occasional out-of-state travel. The role may also require 1–2 trips per month to the St. Paul Campus for team collaboration and events.

Responsibilities

• Program Leadership and Development (70%)
  • Design, develop, deliver, implement, and evaluate educational programs on crop production topics using scholarly research.
  • Identify educational needs and audiences, and create curricula and materials to meet those needs.
  • Use in-person and virtual formats (seminars, webinars, workshops, media) to educate crop producers and agricultural professionals.
  • Contribute to the Institute for Agricultural Professionals, pesticide safety education, and regional agronomic issues (e.g., corn, soybean, small grain, forage production, pest management, soil fertility, sustainable agriculture).
  • Collaborate with communication staff to develop program materials and marketing via websites and social media.
  • Evaluate program impact and adapt future programming accordingly.
  • Engage in professional development through conferences, self-study, and other means to maintain expertise.
• Partnerships and Collaboration (15%)
  • Collaborate with Extension educators, specialists, and agricultural teams at the University of Minnesota.
  • Develop and maintain partnerships with commodity groups, conservation organizations, government agencies, and industry to support Extension programming.
  • Foster a positive work climate with colleagues, advisory groups, audiences, and partners.
  • Participate in team meetings and serve on committees and boards.
• Scholarship (15%)
  • Partner with faculty and research professionals to conduct applied research related to crop production that supports Extension programs.
  • Share research findings through reports, newsletters, websites, social media, podcasts, or other formats.

Requirements

• Master of Science degree in agronomy, crop science, soil science, entomology, plant pathology, weed science, agricultural education, or a related discipline.
• Experience in agronomy, pest management, plant/crop science, cropping systems, soil science, or a related discipline.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to end-users.
• Skills in technology-enhanced communication and/or teaching.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships and collaborations with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation with required liability insurance for travel to workshops and programming.
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including occasional evening or weekend work.
• Reliable internet access if working outside the assigned office location.
• Ability to travel within designated communities and to statewide events, including occasional overnight travel (1–2 times per month on average).
• Ability to perform tasks involving frequent repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, standing, bending, twisting, lifting, and carrying up to 20 pounds frequently, with occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including in farm fields, research plots, and on uneven terrain.
• This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Preferred qualifications

• Two or more years of experience in extension education, adult education, or communications related to crop production.
• Two or more years of full-time experience in agronomy, pest management, plant/crop science, cropping systems, soil science, or a related discipline.
• Experience coordinating educational events.
• Evidence of designing, delivering, and evaluating educational programs.
• Documented problem-solving and outreach in crop production systems.
• Experience influencing needs-based applied research and translating research into adoptable practices for farmers and end-users.
• Experience or background in integrated pest management in farming systems.
• Demonstrated skills in project/program management and working with farmers and/or agricultural professionals from diverse backgrounds.
• Familiarity with working with media (print, television, and/or radio).

Pay

The estimated salary range is $72,000–$82,000, with the final salary determined at the time of offer based on education, qualifications, and experience.