Extension Educator - 4-H Youth Development/Ag and Natural Resources - Henry County

Job Summary

Extension Educators provide the link between Land Grant University research and Indiana residents by creating innovative learning opportunities that address local issues. Dedicated to helping improve the quality of life for current and future residents, Educators collaborate with local, county and state agencies, partner organizations, businesses and schools to analyze needs, develop, implement and oversee vibrant and sustainable research based educational programs, and provide resources and expertise to the local community.

This position has additional programming responsibilities focusing on 4-H Youth Development. By providing results driven educational opportunities, Indiana 4-H strives to be the premier, community-based youth program, while helping to develop and empower young people to reach their full potential. As a 4-H Youth Development Educator, you will help young people see themselves as unique, resilient, life-long learners who actively participate in their own future - setting personal goals and practicing self-determination. 4-H Youth Development Educators work with community partners to create and develop educational opportunities centered on science, citizenship and healthy living. They will provide leadership to the county 4-H program, focusing on 4-H clubs, groups and youth education initiatives. A vital component in developing a successful, sustainable local 4-H program is an engaged, active volunteer base. A significant responsibility of the 4-H Youth Development Educator is to recruit, train and develop the volunteers who work closely with the youth population.

As the agricultural industry responds to the growing demands for food, fiber and fuel, Extension outreach is becoming more dynamic as it incorporates agriculture and natural resource based strategies into economic development plans and programs. The Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator builds partnerships with county and regional agencies, agricultural producers, landowners, agricultural organizations, homeowners, decision makers, and citizens interested in the science of agriculture. The ANR Educator serves as a key resource in agriculture and natural resources in their county, and has responsibility for developing and implementing comprehensive programming, which may include cropping systems, farm business/farm management, livestock systems, horticulture, agriculture economics, natural resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Work with state and local advisory committees in conducting needs assessments to identify critically important issues
• Develop effective and contemporary approaches to plan, deliver and evaluate programming
• Ensure all efforts are made to reach diverse audiences and provide equitable access to programs and facilities
• Identify, recruit and develop the volunteer leadership necessary to help carry out the mission of Purdue Extension
• Develop regular and effective communications and working relationships with colleagues, partners and stakeholders within the community
• Quantify, communicate and promote the value of Extension education to key stakeholders, partners and decision-makers
• Develop and cultivate external funding sources to enhance educational programming
• Participate in and/or lead teams to enhance the scope and reach of Extension programming
• Other responsibilities as required

Extension Educator

Required:

• Master's degree
• Experience in farm management, commercial agriculture, livestock production, horticulture history, or another ag-related field and educational program development, delivery and evaluation, with related experience in youth development, volunteerism, and organizational systems
• In lieu of degree consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of related education and required experience (Bachelor's degree 2 years of experience)
• Experiences or leadership with taskforces and community coalitions or equivalents
• Ability to work with minimal supervision, including prioritizing workloads to meet deadlines
• Knowledge and skill with computer technology in preparing and making reports, presentations, data analysis and retrieval, email and internet applications
• Knowledge of basic educational methods and the ability to effectively communicate/teach program specific material
• Strong communication, leadership, mentoring, teamwork and group process skills
• Flexibility and creativity in the workplace
• Ability to work with diverse audiences and stakeholders
• Travel
• Valid U.S. or Canadian driver's license

Senior Extension Educator

Required:

• Master's degree
• 2 years of experience in farm management, commercial agriculture, livestock production, horticulture history, or another ag-related field and educational program development, delivery and evaluation, with related experience in youth development, volunteerism, and organizational systems
• In lieu of degree consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of related education and required experience (Bachelor's degree 4 years of experience)
• Experiences or leadership with taskforces and community coalitions or equivalents
• Ability to work with minimal supervision, including prioritizing workloads to meet deadlines
• Knowledge and skill with computer technology in preparing and making reports, presentations, data analysis and retrieval, email and internet applications
• Knowledge of basic educational methods and the ability to effectively communicate/teach program specific material
• Strong communication, leadership, mentoring, teamwork and group process skills
• Flexibility and creativity in the workplace
• Ability to work with diverse audiences and stakeholders
• Travel
• Valid U.S. or Canadian driver's license

What We'd Like You to Know:

• This position will be filled as an Extension Educator or as a Senior Extension Educator. The hiring manager will determine the job level based on the skills, experience and qualifications of the selected candidate.
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A valid driver's license is required for all Extension Educator positions
• A background check and MVR check is required for employment in this position
• Travel using personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement provided) and evening and weekend work is an integral part of this position
• Please attach the names and email addresses of at least three (3) references. As the application review process moves forward, an e-Reference form may be sent to the references for completion
• FLSA: Exempt (Not eligible for overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply

What You'll Get in Return:

All university employees are afforded a generous benefits package, https://www.purdue.edu/hr/benewell/index.php, including medical/dental/vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions. As part of Purdue University's expansive employee benefit package, the University is proud to offer its employees the opportunity to grow, learn, and advance by offering a tuition remission opportunity at both Purdue University and Purdue Global.

Take Your Next Giant Leap

We never stop, we keep going, because Discovery is in our DNA, and we want you to discover a Career at Purdue University! Come work alongside a family of diverse culture with faculty, students, and staff who come together to become one, Boilermakers! Our greatest adventures are yet to come, and we want to include you.

Come take your Next Giant Leap and Discover your next career!