Extension Educator, Community and Economic Development, Southwest Region (2 positions)

Central State University; Washington (District of Columbia); Remote; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking Extension Educators to bridge the gap between research and community needs. This role involves developing and implementing educational programs that empower local residents and foster sustainable development. You'll work remotely but engage directly with community partners and stakeholders, making a tangible impact on community growth. Ideal candidates will possess strong communication skills, a background in community development, and the ability to work collaboratively. Join a dynamic team dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through education and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments to identify community issues.
• Develop educational programs for small businesses and families.
• Cultivate funding sources to enhance programming.

Skills

Community Development

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Data Analysis

Teaching Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration

Bachelor’s Degree in Community Development

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management

Tools

Computer Technology

Job description

Extension Educator, Community and Economic Development, Southwest Region (2 positions)

Job Summary:

Extension Educators provide a link between Land Grant University research and Ohio residents by creating innovative learning opportunities that address local issues. Dedicated to helping improve the quality of life for current and future residents, Educators collaborate with local, county and state agencies, partner organizations, businesses, and schools to analyze needs, develop, implement, and oversee vibrant and sustainable research-based educational programs, and provide resources and expertise to the local community.

The Community and Economic Development (CED) Extension Educator will work within the Southwest region. The Educator will be a remote worker but will be expected to travel daily to provide programming and to meet with partners, including county and regional agencies, community economic development authorities, city governments, etc. These engagements are to pursue collaborations, promote programs, conduct programming, and interact with community members. Educators may also be requested to assist in other regions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct needs assessments to identify critical issues and educational needs of targeted communities.
2. Develop communication and working relationships with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders within the communities.
3. Provide research-based educational programs and services to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and to individuals and families to assist with the creation of vibrant and sustainable communities.
4. Establish relationships with faculty on campus to enhance extension programming.
5. Cultivate external funding sources to enhance educational programming.
6. Work collaboratively with other regions and teams.
7. Collect qualitative and quantitative data to evaluate the impact of programs and services.
8. Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience in Public Administration, Community Development, Business Management, Sociology, Agribusiness/Agriculture/Food Marketing, or closely related field.
2. Knowledge in community and economic development that includes a specialization in one or more of the following: participatory planning, entrepreneurship, workforce/small farm/agribusiness/rural development, and leadership development.
3. Strong oral and written communication, leadership mentoring, and group process skills.
4. Evidence of strong interpersonal skills and ability to work within a team environment.
5. Exceptional, proven competency in interpersonal relationship skills, including the ability to effectively relate to and communicate with staff, faculty, elected officials, colleagues, and program participants from diverse cultural backgrounds.
6. Ability to interpret and enforce University policy and best practices in a variety of areas, including discrimination allegations, conflict of interest, volunteer management, and program liability.
7. Knowledge and skill with computer technology in preparing reports, presentations, data analysis, and internet applications.
8. Knowledge of basic educational methods and the ability to effectively teach program specific material.
9. Ability to work with minimal supervision, including prioritizing workloads and meeting deadlines.
10. Knowledge and understanding of the Extension organization, operation, philosophy, and commitment to diversity, equity, and intentional outreach to underrepresented community members.
11. Ability to plan and maintain a flexible work schedule, including evening and weekend work to meet time demands and/or special needs of program management.
12. A valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle with required liability insurance, to be utilized for frequent travel.
13. Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience within specialty field highly desired.
2. Teaching experience in informal and formal settings.
3. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain diverse networks.
4. Demonstrated experience working with urban, rural, and/or Appalachian communities, coalition and partnership building, community and organizational facilitation, agribusiness/agricultural marketing, non-profit management, community economic development, local government, community and economic data analysis, and neighborhood development.
5. Knowledge of extension programming.

Posting Date: 06/25/2024

Closing Date: Open Until Filled