Area Fruit Specialist Extension Associate Lake Ontario Fruit Program
Cornell Cooperative Extension
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Cornell University Western New YorkThe College
of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science
and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to
tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education
and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping
concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy and environmental resources;
and social, physical and economic well-being. The Lake Ontario Fruit Program partners
with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Wayne, Orleans, Niagara, Monroe, and Oswego
Counties, Cornell University Cooperative Extension and faculty to provide
educational programs for the commercial fruit industry, using research-based
information to help the tree fruit and berry industries in New York compete in
the world market and provide safe, high-quality produce for consumers. Primarily, the objectives of the Lake
Ontario Fruit Program are to maintain competitiveness and profitability of New York
fruit farms in a global market; evaluate new technology for potential increases
in efficiency through applied research; assist in the adoption and implementation
of appropriate technologies; improve production and delivery of high quality
fruit to consumers; and to reduce financial, legal, labor, environmental, and
health risks. Focus of the position: Provide
commercial fruit growers, producers, consultants and industry representatives
with the knowledge and educational resources necessary to assess and adopt
integrated pest management practices that will enhance their profitability and
sustain the growth of the fruit industry in Western New York. Provide
leadership for planning, implementing and evaluating educational programs that
address producer identified needs and opportunities. Emphasis is on the demonstration and adoption
of Integrated Pest Management principles and practices leading to economical
and environmentally sound use of pesticides to maximize fruit quality,
profitability, and sustainability. The job duties include: - Provide producers and industry with a framework to analyze
and implement pest management alternatives and to maximize profit opportunities
based on emerging pests and best-management practices.
- 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 social media.
- Analyze and evaluate major program efforts with the input of
all program partners and make recommendations for enhancing these efforts.
- Prepare quarterly reports, impact statements, and yearly
success stories on program progress and accomplishments.
- Initiate and conduct field demonstrations and applied
research projects using integrated approaches to manage insect pests, diseases,
weeds, and others as appropriate to the needs of commercial fruit production in
Western New York.
- Meet the evaluation and reporting requirements of funding
partners.
- Support team efforts in communication with stakeholders and
partners.
- Individually and collaboratively explore and pursue new and
additional funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities.
- Support Cornell University and Cooperative Extension
system-wide initiatives through participation in program work teams, ad-hoc
committees and advisory groups.
- Participate in professional development opportunities,
conferences and workshops appropriate to program and personal skill
enhancement.
This position is full-time and will be located in Western New York.
This is a three-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding
and performance. Required Qualifications: - Masters Degree in Agriculture from an accredited institution
with a major in Pest Management or closely associated field (entomology, plant
pathology, etc.)
- 2+ years of relevant work experience in Agribusiness, Crop
Production, Cooperative Extension, or closely related fields.
- Experience in conducting, interpreting, evaluating and
communicating the results of applied research.
- Knowledge of the philosophy, objectives, and operation of an
informal education system such as Cornell Cooperative Extension.
- Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work with
diverse audiences in group and one-on-one 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 (Microsoft Office, Internet, Social Media
and Web development).
- Appreciation of Agriculture as a business and as a
lifestyle.
- Appreciation of the benefits/risks in the use of pesticides
as tools in perennial fruit crop production.
- Creativity, energy, motivation and positive enthusiasm.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as essential job
functions require.
- Must possess or have the ability to acquire a New York State
Certified Pesticide Applicators License within one year from start date.
- Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the
position, and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid
and unrestricted New York State driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications: - Coursework in crop protection that compliments the Masters Degree
focus: horticulture, pomology, plant physiology, soils, adult education, and
communications.
- Knowledge and experience in current and emerging fruit crop
production practices.
- Working knowledge of technical vocabulary and jargon common
to Spanish-speaking workers on fruit farms.
To apply: Please apply via Academic Jobs
On-line (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/13132). Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae,
contact information for three references, and a statement of contribution to diversity, equity and
inclusion via
the website. Applications will be reviewed as received,
continuing until a suitable applicant is identified. For more information,
please contact Craig
Kahlke at cjk37@cornell.edu. Additional information about the Lake Ontario Fruit Program can be found
at https://lof.cce.cornell.edu/about_program.php. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Life. Changing. Cornell
University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our
inclusive community of scholars, students and staff impart an uncommon sense of
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If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell University's Department of Inclusion and Workforce Diversity at voice (607) 255-3976, fax (607) 255-7481, or email at owdi@cornell.edu.
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Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement. |