Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms)

Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms)

University of Illinois Extension

WHO WE ARE
As part of the Land Grant system, the University of Illinois was established not only to provide world class education and pioneer research and discovery, but to put learning and discovery into practice, to benefit the health and wellbeing of residents and communities in every part of Illinois. Extension is the university’s statewide network of educators, faculty experts, and staff dedicated to that mission. To learn more about University of Illinois Extension, visit https://extension.illinois.edu/global/who-we-are.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EMPLOYEES
We will invest in our employees, our most important resource, by providing professional development and training that enables you to learn and grow to your full potential. We will strive to provide a healthy work-life balance for all our employees, regardless of role. Together, we will maintain a culture that promotes inclusivity, teamwork, and an environment that challenges and rewards our employees. 

JOB PURPOSE
The Extension Educator serves as a full-time, 12-month academic professional with primary responsibility for the development, delivery, and evaluation of educational programs supporting the mission of the University of Illinois Extension.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree related to subject matter emphasis is required from an accredited institution of higher education. Examples of relevant majors could include, but are not limited to, agricultural economics, agronomy, animal science, entomology, horticulture, plant pathology, soil science, or weed science. Master's degrees in other fields will be considered with work experience that demonstrates similar competencies. Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews, but degree must be completed by hire date.
• Informal and/or formal teaching experiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Work experience with agriculture.
• Work experiences with agriculture research and/or demonstration.
• Ability to organize, manage, and conduct educational activities for adult audiences.
• Knowledge and experience in program planning, promotion, and resource development.
• Experience with University of Illinois Extension.
• Valid driver’s license.

SPECIFIC JOB INFORMATION:
One full-time position is available.
Location: Unit 26 – Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Randolph and Williamson Counties
(Position will be housed in Perry or Jackson County)
Additional positions may become available in other locations.
This is a security-sensitive position.  Comprehensive background checks, including but not limited to a criminal conviction information check, a CANTS check, and a review of the Registered Sex Offender list, will be conducted.

EXAMPLES OF THE WORK

• Focus on Local Food Systems within community-based production settings.
• Collaborate with Local Food Systems/Small Farms, Horticulture, and Family and Consumer Economics Extension Educators.
• Build networks among groups of those focused on local food production for emerging audiences.
• Provide research-based information and educational programs for growers, schools, decision-makers, and other stakeholders.

• Develop and deliver programs in:

1. Fruit and vegetable production
2. Food marketing initiatives
3. Food safety and Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs)
4. School and community gardens
5. Integrated pest management
6. Building networks and increasing collaboration with agriculture stakeholders.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Strong communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work within a team environment. Ability to build and maintain networks.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Development, Delivery and Evaluation

• Provide program leadership, interpret and integrate information, teach in the field of designated expertise, maintain the competencies to develop and deliver educational programming, and assist clients with the appropriate resource bases.
• Assess the needs of l