Farm Management Outreach Specialist

About the role

The UW-Madison Division of Extension is hiring a Farm Management Outreach Specialist to incorporate research findings into outreach for agricultural producers and agribusiness professionals across Wisconsin. This position is part of the Agriculture Institute's Farm Management Program and will collaborate with Extension colleagues to increase the reach and impact of farm management educational outreach programs.

Multiple economic and social factors impact Wisconsin agriculture and the financial viability of farm businesses. This role supports the development, delivery, and evaluation of programs for farmers and agribusiness professionals to inform decisions for profitable, healthy farm businesses.

Statewide location: Division of Extension headquarters are in Madison, WI, but the position location is flexible based on programmatic needs, candidate preferences, and suitable space availability. This is a partial remote position, with some work performed in-person at a designated campus location and some remotely (up to 2 days per week). Remote work requires an approved agreement and high-speed internet.

Travel is expected for periodic in-state work, requiring a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and facilitate outreach program content and materials.
• Identify, promote, and maintain external partnerships to support the outreach program.
• Communicate plans, activities, and achievements to the Program Manager, partners, and stakeholders.
• Deliver outreach program content and materials to community members.
• Lead the implementation of programs, policies, and procedures through oversight of day-to-day activities for program staff and volunteers.
• Schedule and secure resources and communicate logistics in support of outreach programs.
• Assist with monitoring outreach program budget spending (as needed).
• Develop and evaluate curriculum and programs, providing recommendations for improvement.

About Extension

Extension embodies the Wisconsin Idea by connecting UW–Madison’s research and educational resources with residents and communities to address local, statewide, and national issues. The UW-Madison Division of Extension Agriculture Institute focuses on emerging issues in Wisconsin’s agriculture and horticulture systems, promoting economically sustainable, socially responsible, and environmentally sound practices.

The Farm Management Program, part of the Agriculture Institute, works with the agriculture community to develop research-based information, resources, and tools that help inform decisions for profitable, healthy farm businesses.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in farm management, agricultural business, agricultural economics, agronomy, crop or soil sciences, dairy or livestock production, agricultural education, rural development, or a related field.
• Three or more years of relevant professional experience.
• Demonstrated skills in interpreting, utilizing, and applying evidence-based information and research findings.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both written and verbal, through a variety of technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for in-state travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education or experience in agricultural economics, strategic business management, business development, farm financial management and analysis, business succession, or transition.
• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Strong interpersonal relationships and problem-solving skills in a team setting.
• Experience building diverse, collaborative partnerships.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate scientific materials in written and verbal forms for lay and technical audiences.

Pay

The minimum annual starting salary for this 12-month position is $70,000, negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off.
• Competitively priced health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Tax-advantaged savings accounts.
• Participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund.