Extension Educator Horticultural Crops - Franklin County

The Pennsylvania State University; Chambersburg (Franklin County); Hybrid; USD 51,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for an Extension Educator to enhance profitability in the vegetable and small fruit sectors. This role involves developing and delivering educational programs focusing on protective culture, utilizing various methods to engage producers. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with a master's degree and relevant experience in horticulture. Join a forward-thinking team committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and make a significant impact in agricultural education while enjoying flexible work arrangements.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required with 1+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience in horticultural crop production preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead educational program planning and implementation for producers.
• Deliver content on growing vegetables and small fruits.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Communication Skills

Research Interpretation

Funding Acquisition

Leadership

Creativity

Technology Proficiency

Bilingual (Spanish)

Education

Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or student) should log in to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State students (not previously employed by the university) seeking employment should log in to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Applicants who are not current employees or students should click "Apply" and complete the external application process.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State Cooperative Extension is seeking an Extension Educator to provide the vegetable and small fruit industries with knowledge and educational resources to assess management practices that enhance profitability. The position focuses on developing and delivering educational programming, primarily on protective culture (high tunnels and greenhouses). The selected individual will be an employee of Penn State Cooperative Extension, The Pennsylvania State University.

Program Development and Implementation:

• Lead planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs addressing producer needs and opportunities.
• Provide frameworks for producers and industry to analyze management options and maximize profits based on emerging best practices and pest management strategies.
• Deliver educational content (in-person or virtual) on growing vegetables and small fruits in protected culture.
• Plan and execute educational programs using diverse methods, including group experiences, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, internet, and distance learning.
• Conduct one-on-one consultations with key producers and industry partners for program development and problem-solving.

Key Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Understanding of the philosophy, objectives, and operation of informal education systems like Cooperative Extension.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work with diverse audiences and partners.
• Proven organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to conduct and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.
• Experience in obtaining funding through grants and industry support.
• Leadership and teamwork capabilities.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency with current technology tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Creativity, energy, motivation, and enthusiasm.
• Willingness to meet travel requirements and work evenings/weekends as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by program leaders or administrators.

Flexible work arrangements combining remote and on-campus work are available. Questions about flexibility should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview.

Qualifications:

This position will be filled at the Intermediate Professional or Advanced Professional level, depending on experience and education. The Intermediate Professional level requires a master’s degree and 1+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination. Preference is given to candidates with a focus on Horticulture and Entomology, and 2-5 years of relevant experience in horticultural crop production. Bilingual (Spanish) communication skills are a plus.

Salary and rank depend on education and experience. The position requires operating a motor vehicle, with a valid driver’s license and successful background checks.

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture of belonging and supporting community engagement.

The salary range is $51,000.00 - $89,600.00.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Information about campus security and crime statistics is available in the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, which can be reviewed here.

Employment requires successful background checks in accordance with university policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer. For accommodations due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.