Extension Associate Aquaculture Production (West Region)

TITLE: Extension Associate Aquaculture Production (West Region)

DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Extension Program 

REPORTS TO: West Regional Extension Director 

EFFECTIVE DATE: Position will Remain Open until Filled

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt 

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB:  

To conduct Extension activities in aquaponics within western Kentucky. Under the West Regional Extension Director the Aquaponics position, will perform Extension activities in schools and alongside community partners.   

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY: 

The Extension Associate – Aquaponics Production will perform Extension duties include assisting in the planning, designing, and implementation of aquaponics systems, maintenance of recirculating aquaculture and aquaponic systems, assisting stakeholders with questions related to aquaculture and aquaponics, and other duties as required. Travel related to the above responsibilities

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

1. Assist in the designing and implementation of aquaponics system
2. Perform fish husbandry activities and data collection.
3. Perform plant propagation activities and data collection.
4. Maintain detailed data in proper spreadsheet layout.
5. Support and participate in extension/outreach activities related to Aquaponics.

OTHER DUTIES: The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Master's in Aquaculture, Agriculture, Biology, Biotechnology, or related field required.  1 to 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES: 

• Knowledge of aquaculture, hydroponics, and/or aquaponics
• Collaborate with KSU Specialist, 4-H Youth Development Agents, and Small Farm Agents to plan and execute programs.
• Determine unit program needs by monitoring trends and issues and conducting unit assessments involving the unit Advisory Committee and other leadership committees.
•  Network and build coalitions with other agencies, organizations and institutions to address the complex youth and family issues.
• Develop and deliver objective and research-based educational programs to meet the needs of diverse audiences, specify program goals and objectives, and identify resources needed.
• Complete various Cooperative Extension reports (KERS, Quarterly Report, Plans of work, etc. 
•  Performs other duties as assigned

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:

• Must be able to lift large boxes up to 40 lbs.
• Must be able to travel.
• Must be able to work evenings and weekends.
• Work could involve some exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
• Requires some standing or walking.
• A valid driver license and a personal vehicle for official duty travel are required. Mileage will be reimbursed at a rate established by the university.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform. The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences strives for inclusive excellence and is interested in qualified candidates who can contribute to this effort through their research, teaching, and/or Extension programs.