Farm Management Extension Educator

About the role

The College of Agricultural Sciences is seeking an entrepreneurial-minded Farm Management Extension Educator to join the Penn State Extension Business, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Development Team. The Extension Educator in Farm Management develops, delivers, and evaluates research-based educational programs that strengthen the financial, operational, and strategic management capacity of agricultural producers and agribusinesses. This role supports Penn State Extension’s mission by improving economic and community outcomes through applied research, outreach education, and stakeholder engagement. The educator serves a statewide audience, leads program development, collaborates across disciplines, and demonstrates measurable program impacts using a variety of delivery methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop, deliver, and evaluate research-based educational programs in farm financial management, business planning, risk management, and strategic decision-making using diverse delivery methods.
• Conduct needs assessments, define program objectives, and evaluate outcomes to ensure relevance, effectiveness, and measurable impact.
• Translate and disseminate applied research into practical tools, educational materials, and technical assistance for producers and agribusinesses.
• Coordinate and manage educational events, workshops, and outreach activities that enhance learning and engagement.
• Build partnerships and collaborate across Extension teams and external stakeholders to address complex agricultural business challenges and expand program reach.
• Conduct applied research, report program impacts, and secure and manage external funding to support program sustainability.
• Contribute to team initiatives, professional development, and organizational goals within Penn State Extension.
• Plan, implement, conduct, and evaluate educational programs for commercial agricultural enterprises, with a focus on initiatives that increase profitability and enhance farm sustainability.
• Assist livestock and plant industry enterprises with the financial implications associated with managing health, disease, and weather-related issues.
• Work individually and collaboratively to conduct needs assessments, establish learning objectives, develop educational materials, host events, and measure program success.
• Collaborate with university faculty and other Extension units to develop educational programs and products and conduct applied research relevant to stakeholder needs.
• Serve as a key member of the financial team with current and future state projects and programs, including farm finance, enterprise budgeting, ratio analysis, federal programs, and contracting.
• Develop a robust and diverse external funding portfolio (e.g., grants, contracts, program revenue) to support unit programs.

Qualifications

• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), interpersonal skills, and the ability to build effective working relationships.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in modern computer software packages, such as Microsoft Office; proficiency in standard financial software packages and/or statistics software is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree(s) in agricultural economics, economics, business administration, business, agricultural business management, finance, or related disciplines.
• Related work experience and interest in agricultural business management.
• Desirable experiences include teaching, facilitation, curriculum development, evaluation, grant management, project management, research, business management, or involvement in agricultural production and processing.
• Superior Microsoft Excel skills and fluency in Spanish are a plus.

Relational & Pedagogical Responsibilities

The successful individual will work both independently and across multiple program teams. They must engage effectively with diverse and underserved audiences across the Commonwealth and utilize innovative and entrepreneurial team collaborations that reach across multiple stakeholders, disciplines, departments, colleges, institutions, non-governmental organizations, independent businesses, and possibly state and local governments. Educational tools may include online courses, videos, mobile apps, electronic publications, traditional publications, and in-person presentations.

Location and Travel

The successful candidate will be based in western Pennsylvania, part of a state team, and expected to participate and deliver programs statewide. The home base will be in a western PA county Extension office with a flexible work agreement allowing work from home for a portion of the week. The specific county office will be discussed with the successful candidate. Travel, including some overnight trips, may be required as program, project, and applied research activities may occur at various locations across the Commonwealth. The job requires a valid driver's license and use of a private vehicle. The candidate must be able to carry equipment and educational materials and supplies, with or without accommodation.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Extension Educator - Intermediate Professional, this position requires a Master's Degree and 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. No certifications are required.

If filled as Extension Educator - Professional, this position requires a Bachelor's Degree with no prior relevant work experience required. No certifications are required.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires operating a motor vehicle as part of job duties; a valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary

The salary range for this position is $44,628.00 - $78,444.00.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; and substantial paid time off (holidays, vacation, and sick time). Employees also receive a generous 75% tuition discount for themselves as well as eligible spouses and children.