Extension Program Assistant

Mississippi State University; Biloxi (MS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University is seeking a Full-Time employee for their Coastal and Marine Extension Program in Mississippi. The role involves engaging in coastal conservation research, community outreach, and managing projects related to marine environments. Candidates should possess a high school diploma and have skills in project management, communication, and Microsoft Office Suite. Reliable transportation and adaptability are required. This position anticipates an appointment date in May 2026 and involves substantial travel along the Gulf Coast.

Qualifications

• Experience in community engagement or education preferred.
• Familiarity with coastal and marine ecosystems.
• Typing and computer skills required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with research, outreach, and training related to coastal conservation.
• Lead workshops and engage in outreach opportunities.
• Manage extramural funding applications.

Skills

Community engagement

Project management

Strong communication skills

Microsoft Office Suite proficiency

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Google Drive

Basecamp

Job description

Job Details

Job no: 510440

Position type: Full-Time 12-Month

Department: 015901 - CREC-Coastal Marine Ext Program

Location: Harrison County

Categories: Support Staff

Position Open Date: Apr 24 2026

Position Function: To support a variety of routine and specialized Extension and research duties focused on a combination of coastal conservation and restoration, environmental monitoring, environmental stewardship, and environmental education. This position is administratively associated with the MSU Coastal Research and Extension Center in support of its Coastal and Marine Extension Program (CREC-CMEP).

Anticipated Appointment Date: May 2026

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The selected applicant will become part of the Coastal and Marine Extension Program (CMEP) and will be involved with a variety of program activities. The primary focus of the selected applicant will be to assist with research, outreach, and training related to coastal conservation and restoration, resilience, sustainability, marine debris/litter reduction, and other duties as assigned. The primary responsibilities of the selected applicant will be to lead and/or assist with the development, implementation, and evaluation of activities emphasized above. These duties will include activities such as, but not limited to:

• Organizing routine meetings with participants, partners, and team members
• Leading and/or co‑leading workshops for project participants and engaging in outreach opportunities
• Leading and assisting with the preparation and dissemination of outreach materials, extension publications, and technical reports
• Applying for and managing extramural funding
• Collecting, interpreting, and reporting data
• Performing research activities, such as literature reviews and sample collection/processing
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience, preferably in community engagement and/or education
• Extension, applied research, outreach, education, and project management experience
• Familiarity with coastal, marine, and estuarine ecosystems and associated field research

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must have reliable personal transportation, a valid driver’s license, and ability to travel often to sites along coastal MS, AL, and FL
• Ability to develop and maintain diverse and robust partnerships
• Typing and computer skills (word processing and spreadsheets)
• Highly flexible: ability to adapt to a rapidly changing schedule
• Ability to juggle multiple tasks and prioritize multiple demands
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Knowledge and skills in using Microsoft Office Suites especially Word, Excel, PowerPoint; knowledge and skills in document/project management/sharing platforms (e.g., Google Drive, Basecamp, etc.)
• Ability to apply for, secure, and manage extramural funding

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time
• Ability to work long hours, occasionally in remote locations
• Requires substantial routine travel, including overnight trips

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, [phone].