Extension Educator - Field and Forage Crops

About the role

The Extension Educator provides statewide leadership and subject-matter expertise within the Penn State Extension Agronomy and Natural Resources Unit. As a member of the Field and Forage Crops Extension Team, this position expands Penn State Extension's capacity to deliver high-quality educational programming, provide technical support to agricultural producers, and contribute to applied research that addresses emerging agronomic challenges across Pennsylvania. The Educator will focus on agronomic production systems, including nutrient management, sustainable cropping systems, and precision agriculture, while serving as a key resource for producers and agricultural stakeholders. The position is supported by a statewide team of Extension Educators and university faculty and utilizes both traditional and innovative technologies to deliver impactful programming. The position will be based at the Penn State Extension – Blair County Office, with service to farms in the surrounding counties and program delivery statewide.

Responsibilities

• Identify priority educational needs in collaboration with the Field and Forage Crops Extension Team.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs related to agronomy, nutrient management, and crop production systems.
• Deliver programming through a variety of methods, including workshops, field days, online courses, webinars, videos, and publications.
• Create original, research-based educational content for diverse audiences.
• Support statewide program initiatives and contribute to team-based educational efforts.
• Provide technical assistance to agricultural producers on agronomic practices, nutrient management, and crop production systems.
• Promote adoption of sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices.
• Support implementation of practices that improve water quality by reducing nutrient and pesticide losses.
• Assist producers in adopting pest management strategies that reduce environmental impact and resistance risks.
• Collaborate with university-based faculty to develop and conduct applied research relevant to stakeholder needs.
• Participate in interdisciplinary projects across Extension program teams and external partners.
• Foster relationships with agricultural agencies, agribusinesses, and service providers to strengthen program impact.
• Communicate local and statewide needs to research and Extension teams.
• Serve as a representative of Penn State Extension across the assigned region and statewide.
• Build and maintain relationships with agricultural producers, industry partners, and governmental agencies.
• Engage with diverse audiences through educational programming and outreach efforts.
• Identify emerging issues in agronomy and natural resource management and respond through Extension programming.
• Contribute to the development of external funding through grants, contracts, and cost-recovery programs.
• Participate in team efforts to secure and manage program funding.
• Contribute to written reports, articles, and other program documentation.
• Provide leadership within programming teams and collaborative initiatives.
• Actively participate in Extension program teams and statewide initiatives.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and expand technical expertise.
• Collaborate with Extension colleagues, faculty, and partners to enhance program effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Demonstrated teaching, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and virtual communication platforms.
• Ability to develop and deliver digital and in-person educational programming.
• Ability to travel frequently and work across multiple counties.
• Ability to lift and transport educational materials and equipment, with or without accommodation.
• Master's Degree with 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted.

Preferred:

• Master's degree or higher in agronomy, plant science, nutrient management, agri-business, or a related field.
• Experience in agricultural education, Extension, or the agricultural industry.
• Spanish language proficiency (written and verbal).
• Experience developing educational materials, publications, or digital content.
• Experience with grants, applied research, or program leadership.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.