Poultry Management Educator

Penn State University; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 66,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Penn State Extension seeks a Poultry Extension Educator to support Pennsylvania’s poultry producers through high-impact education and outreach across the Commonwealth. The role focuses on translating research into practical programming for commercial and small flock operations.

The position emphasizes collaboration with a statewide team, grant funding, and engaging diverse audiences. Requires relevant advanced degree or strong poultry production experience, and willingness to travel throughout

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in poultry science or closely related field.
• Bachelor’s degree with exceptional work experience in poultry production acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Extension colleagues to identify poultry industry needs and develop educational programming.
• Design and deliver research-based learning experiences for poultry producers using various formats.
• Lead applied research and outreach to improve productivity, health, welfare, and sustainable practices.
• Address topics including broiler/layer management, nutrition, housing, health, biosecurity, reproduction, feed formulation, and environmental stewardship.
• Build relationships with producers, agribusiness, government agencies, and others.
• Help secure external funding through grants, contracts, and program income.
• Engage diverse audiences and work within an interdisciplinary Extension team.
• Maintain strong communication with internal and external partners statewide.

Skills

Program development

Adult education

Impact evaluation

Grant writing

Verbal communication

Written communication

Interpersonal skills

Computer applications

Digital content development

Travel willingness

Education

Master’s degree in poultry science

Bachelor’s degree with extensive poultry production 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-conscious 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 and beyond.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $65,508.00 - $108,444.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.