Job ID359314 LocationAll Other -See Job Description Job FamilyEducation-Extension Full/Part TimePart-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code9625ST Employee ClassAcad Prof and Admin About the Job Title:Extension Educator, Agriculture & Horticulture Classification:Assistant Extension Educator, Job Code 9625ST Appointment:.75 FTE (75% time), 30 hours a week, funded by Olmsted County Extension Area:Department of Agricultural and Natural Resource Systems (ANR) Office Location:Olmsted County Extension Office, Rochester, MN Apply by:February 4, 2024 ABOUT THE COUNTY Olmsted County is located in southeastern Minnesota. It serves eight cities, 18 townships and nearly 163,000 residents. The County seat and most populous city in the county is Rochester which is home to several large corporations and small businesses.The community is innovative, diverse and growing.Olmsted County is a mix of urban and rural areas with minimal buffers between these areas. There are 3 main rivers which flow to the Mississippi River - Zumbro River, Whitewater River and the Root Rover.Agriculture in Olmsted County includes crops of corn, soybeans, forages, vegetables and sweet corn along with livestock production is dairy, beef cattle & hogs which accounts for market values that exceed $214 million. There has also been extensive growth in urban agriculture such as community gardens, food forests, etc. which will continue to grow.With such an expansive geographic region, there are opportunities for untapped agriculture, horticulture and natural resources in the area. ABOUT THIS POSITION The University is looking for candidates with skills and experience in engaging stakeholders in agriculture and horticulture; developing and strengthening networks; and teaching and facilitating informal educational programs that are relevant to Olmsted County. The Extension educator will be responsible for determining local needs involving Extension programming and will provide technical assistance and information in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources, as well as support of the Master Gardener program and volunteers. This position will: Provide research-based educational resources to residents of Olmsted County. Build trusted relationships and partnerships with community members and leaders. Provide relevant education and support to residents in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources. Design, develop, deliver, and evaluate research-based educational programs and make them accessible and welcoming to diverse participants. Provide technical assistance and expertise in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources. Communicate effectively and positively with colleagues and stakeholders about the work. Job Duties Include: Provide oversight for the Master Gardener program, which includes managing recruitment, communications, program planning, financial management, and ensuring their work focuses on education of others and aligns with state program focus and needs, as well as county needs. Provide technical assistance in agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources based on local needs and expectations. Design, develop, deliver/implement, and evaluate local educational program offerings based on local needs and expectations, developing and maintaining effective county, regional, University and state partnerships that support the development and delivery of Extension educational programs. Adapt Extension programs for audiences with a range of knowledge, background, and cultures. Work in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) agencies, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD), Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), county environmental and land management services, and agricultural and natural resources professional organizations to provide education programs relevant to the county. Ensure that Extension programs, facilities, committees, and employment opportunities are acce sible to new, diverse, and historically underserved audiences. Foster and contribute to a positive work climate with colleagues, advisory groups, audiences and partnerships. Other duties as assigned. APPOINTMENT/BENEFITS This is a .75 FTE position (30 hours/week), annual Academic Professional appointment at the level of Assistant Extension Educator (9625ST). The appointment is reviewed for renewal annually, with continuation dependent on performance, results, availability of county funds, and program needs. Internal promotion is available and meeting the promotion policy criteria to achieve promotion is expected. A full University of Minnesota benefits package is available: . Reimbursement for travel and subsistence is available in accordance with University policy. Salary commensurate with education and experience; estimated starting salary range based on percentage of time (75%, 30hours/week) is $38,000 - $41,200. Salary range for 100% position is $51,000 - $55,000. Qualifications Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree (by start date of position) in an agriculture related discipline, i.e., horticulture, agronomy, soils, livestock production, agricultural economics, agriculture education, and/or other closely related field. Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills. A proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships and collaborations with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders, including those that may have diverse missions, goals, cultures (including Hispanic and native), and backgrounds. Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion. Skilled in Microsoft and Google Workspace applications. Additional Requirements: Valid driver's license and own means of transportation with required liability insurance, to be utilized for travel to workshops and transporting materials and supplies to events; the need to transport other people/employees may occur. Must be able to travel within the designated communities and provide in-person programming. When not in the assigned office location, employees must be reachable with a mobile number at the employee's own expense. That number will be published in the Extension staff directory. Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including occasional evening or weekend work. Must be able to travel within the designated communities and provide in-person programming. Working ability to perform tasks involving frequent repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, standing, bending, twisting, lifting, and carrying 10 pounds frequently, with occasional exertion of up to 30 pounds of force. Must have reliable internet connection if/when working outside of assigned office location. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Preferred Skills/Abilities: Master's degree. Current experience in horticulture or production agriculture and/or professional experience in the agricultural industry, government, or non-profit organizations involving horticulture or agriculture. Experience in creating new educational programs. Experience using technology for communication, information finding,... For full info follow application link. The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.