Field Specialist in Agricultural Business – Taney County, MO

About the Role

This position is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that support agricultural and agribusiness development and expansion in ways that improve Missourian’s quality of life and enhance the economic viability of Missouri enterprises while protecting the environment and the state’s natural resources. The role primarily serves Taney, Wright, Webster, Greene, Texas, Ozark, Douglas, and Christian Counties in the Southwest Region, with additional service across the state as needed.

Responsibilities

• Assisting agricultural operators and agribusinesses with decision-making, financial management, taxes, and risk mitigation as they start, expand, or diversify their businesses.
• Assessing new business opportunities and emerging economic issues faced by producers, landowners, and businesses.
• Offering technical assistance contracts, often in collaboration with state specialists, that support efforts such as business plans, marketing plans, feasibility studies, surveys, etc.
• Connecting appropriate regional and state partners with agricultural business owners when economic development opportunities arise.
• Applying interdisciplinary knowledge and collaborating with regional producer groups, agricultural support entities, and relevant organizations to leverage efforts and funding opportunities.

Core Duties

MU Extension Specialists deliver the University of Missouri to all Missourians by:

• Educating: Designing, conducting, and evaluating educational programs; teaching research-based information via various methods; and supporting individual, organizational, and community goals.
• Creating: Developing innovative and research-informed educational products, services, and materials; obtaining and using extramural funding; and contributing to the scholarship of Extension and Engagement.
• Connecting: Engaging with learners, stakeholders, volunteers, and communities; fostering engaged partnerships; and representing the University of Missouri on boards and committees.

Professional Expectations

• Engage with stakeholders to identify educational needs and collaborate with partners to meet programming needs.
• Create an annual plan-of-work aligned with local needs and statewide efforts.
• Provide monthly reports to county extension councils, supervisors, and others.
• Attend county extension council meetings and provide program reviews.
• Collaborate on research projects and deliver findings through various methods.
• Complete administrative tasks to support county efforts.
• Demonstrate competency in communication, subject matter knowledge, and professionalism.
• Offer timely, research-based information during emergencies.
• Participate in professional development events.

Additional Expectations

• Travel regularly throughout Missouri and occasionally out-of-state.
• Maintain a valid Missouri driver’s license, vehicle, and wireless telephone/data service.
• Attend events outside normal business hours as needed.

Qualifications

• Earned Master’s or other applicable terminal degree (MBA or Ph.D. preferred) in agricultural economics, agricultural business, agricultural marketing, business administration, or related field.
• Experience working with diverse audiences.

Benefits

This position is eligible for University benefits, including medical, dental, and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses.

Pay

Minimum starting salary of $58,000, with final salary based on qualifications and experience.

Location: Forsyth, Missouri

Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.