Extension Educator, Health and Community Wellness (Food and Health Systems)

As part of the Land Grant system, the University of Illinois was established to provide world-class education, pioneer research, and apply learning and discovery 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.

We invest in our employees through professional development and training, promote a healthy work-life balance, and foster a culture of inclusivity, teamwork, and recognition.

About the role

The Extension Educator serves as a full-time, 12-month academic professional responsible for developing, delivering, and evaluating educational programs that support the mission of University of Illinois Extension.

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

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative curricula and programs addressing local needs and aligning with state and national initiatives.
• Deliver high-impact programs to community-based audiences through collaborative educational outreach.
• Promote and represent Extension with external partners and stakeholders.
• Build collaborative relationships with County Directors, Educators, and Extension Council Members.
• Establish partnerships with campus colleagues to connect research and academic expertise with Extension programs.
• Evaluate program impact and measure changes in participant knowledge, behavior, and practices.
• Provide program leadership, interpret and integrate information, and teach in the field of designated expertise.
• Assess local clientele needs through networking and collaboration with community organizations.
• Develop and deliver educational programs using innovative delivery mechanisms.
• Guide program expansion and quality by training and supporting employees or volunteers.
• Evaluate program initiatives focusing on both short-term impacts and long-term changes in clientele practices.
• Develop contemporary communication approaches, including electronic technologies (e.g., social media, 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 County Directors, Educators, and Extension Council Members.
• Support the total University of Illinois Extension program and accept statewide responsibilities as assigned.
• Lead unit teams under the direction of the County Director.
• Establish campus-based partnerships to connect academic programs and research with Extension initiatives.
• Participate in professional societies to stay current in the discipline and seek professional development opportunities.
• Use research and evaluation findings to improve program quality and share best practices with peers.
• Assist 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 public health, community health, or a related health education field from an accredited institution. Degrees in other fields may be considered with relevant work experience demonstrating similar competencies.
• Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered, but the degree must be completed by the hire date.
• Teaching experience in informal and formal settings.
• Experience building collaborations or community partnerships.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with University of Illinois Extension.
• Experience working in varied settings and communities.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work within a team environment and build community networks.
• Knowledge of obesity prevention strategies using policy, systems, and environmental approaches.

Working Conditions

• Local, regional, and limited statewide travel required; personal transportation required.
• Exposure to varied environmental factors (e.g., weather, noise, allergens, uneven ground).
• Physical demands include moving, transferring, or transporting items up to 40 pounds.
• Work schedule may include evenings and/or weekends.

Administrative Relationships

• Administratively responsible to the County Director.
• Programmatically responsible to the Program Leader(s) for delivering programs aligned with national and state priorities.

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.

Benefits

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