Horticulture Vegetable and Small Fruit Extension Educator

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State Cooperative Extension is seeking a Horticulture Vegetable and Small Fruit Extension Educatorfor Franklin County. The Extension Educator will provide commercial vegetable and small fruit growers/producers with the knowledge and educational resources necessary to assess production and management practices that will enhance their profitability. The individual selected will be an employee of Penn State Cooperative Extension, The Pennsylvania State University.

Specific Job Functions and Responsibilities

Program Development and Implementation

• Provide leadership for planning, implementing and evaluating educational programs that address producer identified needs and opportunities.

• Provide producers and industry with a framework to analyze production and management alternatives and to maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices, new varieties, food safety compliance, and insect and disease pest management.

• Plan and implement educational programs utilizing a variety of methods including direct teaching through group experiences, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, use of the internet and distance learning.

• One-on-one consultations with key producers and industry partners related to program development and problem solving.

Program Management

• Responsible for day-to-day program operations and fiscal accountability.

• Individually and collaboratively explore and pursue new and additional funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities.

• Responsible for routine operations, reporting and accountability.

• Support team efforts of communication with stakeholders and partners.

• Support team efforts is planning and implementing of regional and statewide events.

Professional Improvement

• Participate in professional development opportunities appropriate to program and personal skill enhancement.

• Participate in related professional organizations.

Program Evaluation

• Define and develop reporting mechanisms for producer-focused "measurable" outcomes.

• Analyze and evaluate major program efforts with the input of all program partners and make recommendations for enhancing these efforts. Communicate evaluation results, findings, and recommendations as appropriate.

• Prepare quarterly reports and yearly impact statements on program progress and accomplishments.

• Meet the evaluation and reporting requirements of all funding partners.

Key Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired to Perform the Work of this Position

• Knowledge of the philosophy, objectives and operation of an informal education system such as Cooperative Extension.

• Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work with diverse audiences in one-on-one and group settings; working effectively with advisory boards and committees, community and funding partners.

• Proven organizational and time-management skills.

• Ability to define, conduct and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.

• Successful experience obtaining new funding including grants and industry support.

• Strong leadership and teamwork skills.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• Fundamental competence utilizing current technology as a management and program delivery tool (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

• Creativity, energy, motivation and positive enthusiasm.

• Ability to meet the travel requirements of the job.

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as essential job functions require.

• Ensure compliance with the Affirmative Action Plan. Through public notification and "All Reasonable Efforts," make programs accessible to clientele without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, of veteran status.

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Program Team Leaders or the administrator in-charge.

Qualifications

This position will be filled as an intermediate, advanced or senior professional, depending upon the successful candidate's competencies, education, and experience. Minimum requirements for an intermediate professional include a master's degree and one or more years related experience, an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Additional experience and/or education and competencies are required for higher level jobs. Preference will be given to candidates who have a concentration in Horticulture, Entomology, Plant Pathology, or a closely related field. Two to five years of relevant experience and knowledge and/or experience in horticultural crop production is desired. Candidates who speak and write Spanish fluently to effectively communicate with diverse audiences are preferred

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.

Salary will be commensurate with education, training and experience.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: