Poultry Management Educator

Penn State University; Nebraska; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State Extension seeks a Poultry Extension Educator to support Pennsylvania's poultry producers—from commercial operations to small flocks—through high‑impact education and outreach. Based in Lancaster County, you will design and deliver research‑based learning experiences in person and online, and collaborate with faculty, producers, and government agencies.

This 12‑month funded position requires a Master’s in poultry science (or related field) and strong communication, program development,

Qualifications

• Master's degree in poultry science or closely related field.
• 2+ years of relevant poultry extension experience preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to secure funding.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Extension colleagues and faculty to identify poultry industry needs and develop relevant programming.
• Design and deliver research-based learning experiences (in-person, online, webinars, publications).
• Contribute to applied research and outreach to improve poultry productivity and welfare.
• Address topics including broiler and layer management, nutrition, housing, health, biosecurity, and welfare.
• Build relationships with producers, agribusinesses, agencies, and organizations.
• Engage in securing external funding through grants and contracts.
• Communicate effectively across diverse audiences and work within an interdisciplinary team.
• Maintain communication with partners statewide.

Skills

Mastery in poultry science

Program development

Adult education

Grant writing

Communication skills

Travel willingness

Spanish outreach (optional)

Education

Master's degree in poultry science or closely related field

Bachelor's degree with substantial poultry experience

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This position is funded for 12 months; continuation past 12 months will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Join a forward-thinking, nationally recognized team at Penn State Extension as a Poultry Extension Educator . We are seeking a knowledgeable, motivated individual trained in poultry science who is passionate about supporting Pennsylvania's poultry producers, including commercial layers, broilers, and small-scale flock owners, through high-impact education, research translation, and innovative programming.

This position is based in Lancaster County and serves as part of a statewide team delivering programming across the Commonwealth.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Extension colleagues and faculty to identify critical poultry industry needs and develop relevant educational programming.
• Design and deliver research-based learning experiences for poultry producers and stakeholders using diverse formats (in-person, online, digital publications, videos, webinars, etc.).
• Contribute to and/or lead applied research and outreach efforts to improve poultry productivity, animal health and welfare, and sustainable management practices.
• Address topics such as: Broiler and layer management, nutrition, and housing; Poultry health, biosecurity, and disease prevention; Reproductive management and flock performance; Feed formulation, nutrition strategies, and growth optimization; Environmental stewardship and manure management; Small flock and backyard poultry production systems; Poultry welfare and management needs; and Integrated pest management for flock health and disease control.
• Build strong working relationships with producers, agribusiness professionals, government agencies, and other organizations.
• Actively participate in securing external funding through grants, contracts, and program income.
• Engage with diverse audiences and work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary, cross-functional Extension team.
• Maintain a high level of communication and collaboration with internal colleagues and external partners across the state and beyond.

What We're Looking For

• A Master’s degree or higher in poultry science or a closely related field.
• Candidates with a bachelor’s degree and exceptional work experience in poultry production will be considered.
• Broad knowledge of poultry production systems, including commercial broilers, layers, and small flocks.
• Experience or interest in sustainable and welfare-conscientious poultry practices and engaging Spanish-speaking audiences (Spanish proficiency valued).
• Demonstrated skills in program development, adult education, impact evaluation, and grant writing.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; excellent interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in computer applications and digital content development.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel throughout the state.

Why Join Penn State Extension?

This is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of a collaborative, innovative team dedicated to advancing Pennsylvania agriculture. As an Extension Educator, you'll have access to:

• Supportive statewide network of peers, specialists, and faculty.
• Professional development opportunities and access to cutting-edge research.
• The freedom to create and lead impactful programs based on stakeholder needs and your own expertise.
• A chance to make a real difference in the profitability, sustainability, and resilience of Pennsylvania's poultry industry.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Extension Educator - Senior Professional, this position requires:

• Master's Degree
• 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required Certifications: None

If filled as Extension Educator - Advanced Professional, this position requires:

• Master's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required Certifications: None

Application Information

This position is open until filled. Review of applications will begin immediately.

Join us in shaping the future of poultry production in Pennsylvania