Extension Educator Horticultural Crops - Franklin County

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Extension Educator to enhance the profitability of the vegetable and small fruit industries. This dynamic role involves developing and delivering educational programs focused on protective culture, utilizing various methods to engage producers. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, alongside a master's degree in a relevant field. Join a collaborative environment that values diversity and inclusion, and make a significant impact within the community by empowering producers with knowledge and resources. Flexibility in work arrangements, including remote options, is offered.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required with 1+ years of relevant experience.
• Preference for candidates with a focus in Horticulture and Entomology.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for planning and implementing educational programs.
• Deliver educational information on growing vegetables and small fruit.
• Conduct one-on-one consultations with key producers.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Research Skills

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Creativity

Proficiency with Excel

Proficiency with Word

Proficiency with PowerPoint

Education

Master’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture or Entomology

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Current Penn State Employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State Student (not previously employed at the university) seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• External Applicants: If you are not a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

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

Program Development and Implementation:

• Provide leadership for planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that address producer-identified needs and opportunities.
• Provide producers and industry with a framework to analyze management alternatives and maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices and pest management strategies.
• Deliver educational information (in-person or virtual) on growing vegetables and small fruit in protected culture.
• Plan and implement educational programs utilizing various methods including group experiences, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, internet, and distance learning.
• Conduct one-on-one consultations with key producers and industry partners related to program development and problem solving.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the philosophy, objectives, and operation of an informal education system such as Cooperative Extension.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work with diverse audiences in various settings.
• Proven organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to define, conduct, and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.
• Successful experience in obtaining funding through grants and industry support.
• Strong leadership and teamwork skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with current technology tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Creativity, energy, motivation, and positive enthusiasm.
• Ability to meet travel requirements and work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Team Leaders or administrator.

Flexibility in work arrangement, combining remote and on-campus work, is offered. Questions about flexible work should be directed 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 for candidates with a focus in Horticulture and Entomology, and 2-5 years of relevant experience. Fluency in Spanish is preferred.

Salary and educator rank depend on education and experience. The position requires operating a motor vehicle; a valid driver’s license and background checks are mandatory.

Penn State values diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture of belonging.

Salary range: $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.

Employment requires successful background checks.

EEO STATEMENT:

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. For assistance with the online application process due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.