Extension Educator, Youth Development, Animal Science (SW MN region)

About the Job

Job code: 9624YS
Employee Group: Professional & Academic (P&A)
Full/Part Time (FTE): 100%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Office location: Extension Regional Office options of Marshall, Morris, or Willmar; another location near the Worthington area may also be possible. Work location determined at offer. This is an in-person position, where hybrid or flexible work options may be available.
Estimated salary range: $64,000 - $78,000
Apply by: July 20, 2026

About the Job

This regional Extension Educator, Youth Development (Regional Educator) works with a team of educators across a multi-county southwest region and statewide to provide educational leadership for 4-H Youth Development animal science and adult learning programs. Regional Educators lead programmatic efforts to create high-quality learning environments where youth thrive. Placed on an academic promotion track, they use research-based methods to design and manage programs, teach and facilitate learning, and contribute to the field through scholarship.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the development of regional 4-H Animal Science programs in collaboration with locally-based 4-H Extension educators. Ensure alignment with state Animal Science priorities while addressing local community needs and departmental goals.
• Design new and innovative program approaches to enhance local and regional 4-H Animal Science education to prepare youth for work and life.
• Collect and use data to inform 4-H Animal Science program decisions. Engage audiences and partners in developing data-driven local program plans with goals and strategies that achieve program growth and audience retention.
• Collaborate with the state 4-H Animal Science team to lead and support statewide programs and projects, such as animal science project bowl, project development committees, show committees, livestock judging, Minnesota State Fair animal science experiences, Livestock Quality Assurance & Ethics training, and educational tracks at other Minnesota 4-H events. Ensure youth in the region have access to and participate in state-level programs and events, and serve as the region’s primary point of contact.
• Ensure University of Minnesota and Minnesota 4-H policies and procedures, such as risk and financial management, are communicated in the region and consistently implemented.
• Manage the animal identification process in the region and support, guide, and advise local implementation.
• Secure and steward financial resources to support regional 4-H Animal Science programming, including developing grants, sponsorships, and partnerships; manage program budgets and ensure responsible use of funds in accordance with University and Extension policies.
• Facilitate solutions to questions, concerns, and issues related to program conduct.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree at time of appointment.
• At least two years of post-bachelor’s degree professional experience in youth development programs, community-based or non-profit organizations, animal science, agricultural education, or related fields.
• Demonstrated expertise in animal science subject matter.
• Demonstrated experience using data-driven approaches in program design, development, implementation, and reporting
• Demonstrated expertise in written communication.
• Strong oral communication skills.

About the Department

University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota, a land grant institution with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high-quality, passionate employees. Find further information on the Extension website.

Extension’s Department of Youth Development fosters vibrant, sustainable and resilient communities by building a force of engaged young people who are able to learn and lead in a global society and a receptive social environment that challenges and supports youth in communities across Minnesota. We do this by studying issues, training youth workers, and delivering the 4-H Youth Development program. For more information about Youth Development: https://extension.umn.edu/families-and-youth

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $64,000 - $78,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Adequate retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Employment Requirements

• Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.