Local Food Systems & Small Farms Extension Educator

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Murphysboro (IL); On-site; USD 59,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Extension is seeking an Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms) to develop, deliver, and evaluate educational programs supporting the Extension mission across Illinois counties. The role is 12-month, full-time, with responsibilities spanning curriculum development, community partnerships, and statewide program alignment.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in a related field, teaching experience, and a valid driver’s

Qualifications

• Master’s degree related to subject matter emphasis from an accredited institution.
• Informal and/or formal teaching experiences.
• Work experience with agriculture.
• Work experiences with agriculture research and/or demonstration.
• Ability to organize, manage, and conduct educational activities for adult audiences.
• Knowledge and experience in program planning, promotion, and resource development.
• Experience with University of Illinois Extension.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Provide program leadership, interpret and integrate information, teach in the field of designated expertise, maintain the competencies to develop and deliver educational programming, and assist clients with the appropriate resource bases.
• Assess the needs of local clientele in a systematic and analytical manner. This will include networking and collaborating with community organizations and other relevant groups.
• Within the designated area(s) of specialization, develop innovative curricula and programs to address local needs as well as to mesh with the broader state and national interdisciplinary initiatives.
• Deliver high impact programs to all audiences utilizing a selection of innovative delivery mechanisms to optimize reach and effectiveness, by teaming with additional Extension employees and volunteers who assist with program management functions and teaching roles when appropriate.
• Guide program expansion and program quality processes by teaching and providing training and support to employees or volunteers who teach and work within the program area.
• Support voluntary educational delivery systems with relevant subject matter expertise.
• Evaluate the impact of program initiatives in a planned and statistically relevant fashion. Evaluation plans should focus not only on short-term impacts but also on long-term changes in clientele practices.
• Develop effective and contemporary approaches to communicate with clientele. This may include constantly evolving electronic technologies (e.g. twitter, Facebook, blogs, e-learning, etc.).
• Comply with all reporting deadlines and requirements (e.g. plans of work, activity and impact reporting, etc.)

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Networking

Education

Master's degree in agriculture or related field

Job description

University of Illinois Extension is seeking an Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms) to develop, deliver, and evaluate educational programs supporting the Extension mission across Illinois counties. The role is 12-month, full-time, with responsibilities spanning curriculum development, community partnerships, and statewide program alignment.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in a related field, teaching experience, and a valid driver’s