Farm Business Management Specialist (Cornell Cooperative Extension); Central New York

Zymtronix Catalytic Systems Inc; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 72,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Farm Business Management Specialist to enhance profitability for producers in Central New York. This dynamic role involves developing educational programs, conducting applied research, and building relationships with stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess a Master's Degree in Agriculture and have a strong understanding of farm business management. The position offers a hybrid work environment and a competitive salary, making it an exciting opportunity for those passionate about agriculture and community engagement. If you're ready to make a difference in the agricultural sector, this role is for you.

Benefits

Comprehensive Benefits

Hybrid Work Environment

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Agriculture or related fields.
• 2+ years of experience in agribusiness or related areas.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement educational programs for producers.
• Conduct field demonstrations and applied research projects.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Leadership

Communication Skills

Applied Research

Analytical Skills

Funding Acquisition

Creativity

Motivation

Education

Master’s Degree in Agriculture

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Access

Internet

Social Media

Job description

Farm Business Management Specialist (Cornell Cooperative Extension); Central New York

Farm Business Management Specialist

Extension Associate

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Cornell University

Central New York

Who We Are

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world.

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) provides educational outreach functions for Cornell University’s role as New York State’s Land Grant University. The Central New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Team was formed to provide high-quality educational programs and applied research efforts addressing the needs of dairy, livestock, and field crop producers in the region.

What You Will Do

As the Farm Business Management Specialist, you will provide producers and industry with a framework for analyzing production and management alternatives to maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices. You will work with farms of all sizes to analyze management strategies to expand production and profitability. Responsibilities include:

1. Planning and implementing educational programs using various methods, including direct teaching, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, internet, and distance learning.
2. Initiating and conducting field demonstrations and applied research projects relevant to the economics of commercial and livestock production.
3. Preparing quarterly reports, impact statements, and annual success stories on program progress and accomplishments.
4. Participating in regional, statewide, and national work groups related to Cornell University, Cooperative Extension, and industry sectors.
5. Exploring and pursuing new funding sources to extend program opportunities.
6. Analyzing and evaluating major program efforts with partners and making recommendations for improvement.

What We Need

We seek an individual skilled at building relationships with stakeholders to identify and address industry needs. The ideal candidate will appreciate New York State’s agricultural industry and understand farm business management. You will work across several counties and develop impactful extension and research programs. Requirements include:

1. Master’s Degree in Agriculture (Animal Science, Agricultural Economics, or related fields).
2. At least 2 years of relevant experience in agribusiness, livestock, dairy, field crops, or related areas.
3. Experience in applied research, interpretation, evaluation, and communication of results.
4. Knowledge of informal education systems like Cornell Cooperative Extension.
5. Understanding of principles and research in farm economics and business management.
6. Strong interpersonal skills to work with diverse audiences and partners.
7. Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
8. Ability to conduct and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.
9. Experience in securing funding through grants and industry support.
10. Leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
11. Proficiency with technology tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, Internet, Social Media).
12. Appreciation of agriculture as a business and lifestyle.
13. Creativity, energy, motivation, and enthusiasm.
14. Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.
15. Ability to travel within the region, reliable transportation, valid NY driver’s license, and ability to drive for university business.

Additional helpful qualifications include coursework in relevant areas and more extensive experience (5+ years) in the field.

Position Details

This full-time position is based in Central New York (Chenango, Fulton, Herkimer, Madison, Montgomery, Otsego, Saratoga, and Schoharie Counties). It offers a hybrid work environment with some remote work possible. The appointment is for three years with potential extension based on performance and funding.

Rewards and Benefits

We offer competitive benefits and a salary range of $72,000 to $74,000, based on experience and qualifications. Cornell is recognized for its workplace environment and offers comprehensive benefits. For more details, visit here.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, three references, and a diversity statement via Academic Jobs Online by May 31, 2025. For questions, contact Peter Landre at [e-mail]. Additional information about the team can be found at this link.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Cornell University is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages all qualified individuals to apply. We support a workplace free from discrimination and harassment based on any protected characteristic.