Extension Educator, Ag & Natural Resources / 4 H Youth Development

~ What is Purdue Extension? The Cooperative Extension Service is one of the nation's largest providers of scientific research-based information and education. It's a network of colleges, universities, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, serving communities and counties across America. ~

The Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service program areas are: 

• Agriculture and Natural Resources 
• Health and Human Sciences 
• Economic and Community Development 
• 4-H Youth Development

Purdue Extension is a service tailored to meet the needs of Indiana, needs we know firsthand. Our educators, specialists, and volunteers live and work in all 92 Indiana counties. We provide the link between Land Grant research and Indiana citizens. In doing that we provide practical solutions to local issues. We provide information and expertise that's available in the form you want, when you want it. That's Purdue Extension, Indiana's home team advantage. 

Position Overview

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.

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.

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree with academic training and/or professional experience relevant to position responsibilities.
• 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.
• Ability to work with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Strong communication, leadership, mentoring, teamwork and group process skills.
• Flexibility and creativity in the workplace.