Conservation Agriculture Educator

Conservation Agriculture Educator

Job Type: Extension, Faculty/Academic Staff
Major Administrative Unit / College: Michigan State University Extension
Department: Extension Agriculture And Agribusiness
Sub Area: FAS- Fac./Acad Staff
Salary: Salary Commensurate with Experience
Location: Regional Responsibilities
Categories: Agriculture, Education/Training, Advising/Counseling, Fixed Term Academic Staff, Full Time, Non-Union

Position Overview

Michigan State University Extension is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment, where every staff member plays a role in achieving our collective goals. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is fundamental to our mission. This commitment involves:

• Collaborating to ensure programming reaches diverse audiences and yields equitable outcomes.
• Creating a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Equipping every team member with the necessary skills and resources to foster an inclusive atmosphere.
• Recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives and experiences to ensure equal access to our programs.
• Engaging in continuous learning to enhance our cultural competency and achieve inclusive excellence.
• Understanding that diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital to our organizational culture and programmatic success.
• Encouraging a culture of understanding and constructive feedback to achieve our shared vision.
• Working together to realize our goals through ongoing education and collaborative efforts.

Role Summary

As a key member of MSU Extension and the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute, this role provides leadership and educational expertise in promoting sustainable cropping systems that enhance soil health, carbon sequestration, and reduce nutrient runoff. This position encompasses both regional and statewide responsibilities, requiring collaboration with various teams, industry stakeholders, and educational partners to address the needs of our clientele.

Your responsibilities will include identifying, designing, implementing, and assessing educational programs that facilitate the adoption of innovative agricultural practices, such as advanced fertility management, conservation tillage, and cover cropping. You will lead initiatives that involve organizing educational events, developing decision support tools, and producing educational materials in partnership with MSU Extension staff and industry collaborators.

Effective communication is essential in this role, utilizing a variety of strategies including in-person meetings, virtual engagements, and multimedia outreach to disseminate research-based information. You will work closely with community members and stakeholders to develop programs that enhance public understanding and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Your position will involve collaboration with MSU colleagues and a network of agricultural and conservation organizations, serving as a regional contact to assess research and programmatic needs.

This full-time, fixed-term position may offer flexible work arrangements, with an expectation of office presence to fulfill job responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative educational programs addressing statewide agricultural needs and promoting conservation practices.
• Foster positive relationships within and outside the organization to enhance public perception of MSU Extension.
• Support the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute's commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equitable access to programming.
• Engage with community groups to assess client needs and develop effective educational initiatives.
• Collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies to conduct community needs assessments and inform program development.
• Serve as a resource for clientele and partners, providing timely information and updates on relevant agricultural topics.
• Utilize various media to communicate research findings and program schedules effectively.
• Work with MSU Extension staff to evaluate program impacts and guide future priorities.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Contribute to the creation of educational materials and publications.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Institute Director.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in soil science, agronomy, crop science, or a related field.
• Knowledge of conservation agronomy practices and precision agriculture.
• Proven ability in educational program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Demonstrated sensitivity and understanding of diverse populations.
• Experience in program development for varied audiences and communities.
• Ability to manage projects from conception to completion.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Experience working effectively in team settings.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Proficiency in technology for program delivery and communication.
• Willingness to travel locally and occasionally long distances.
• Ability to lift educational materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.
• Demonstrated commitment to cultural competency and inclusive excellence.
• Experience in marketing educational programs.
• Understanding of Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.

Desired Qualifications

• Three years of experience in Extension program delivery or relevant educational program planning.
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Experience in grant writing and management.

Application Materials

Current resume/CV, cover letter, and four professional references, including two supervisors.

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