Description

• Develop and deliver unbiased science-based extension programs and in-service training in high-priority and emerging youth interest areas of livestock, poultry, and companion animal topics. Work may include curriculum assessment and professional development of 4-H staff and volunteers beyond the 4-H team. Secondary focus includes program delivery, communication, and event coordination.
• With input from colleagues and other partners, provide leadership for planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that address K-12 STEM outreach needs. Emphasis is on the demonstration and adoption of principles and best practices leading to future animal industry and/or STEM careers.
• Provide leadership for and coordinate youth events, activities, awards, trainings, and competitions, including website and communications with participants, collaborators, and donors.
• Plan and implement educational programs utilizing various methods, including direct teaching through group experiences, electronic technology, use of the internet, and distance learning.
• One-on-one consultations with 4-H extension educators and industry partners related to program development and problem solving, as necessary.
• Prepare reports on program progress and accomplishments.
• Analyze and evaluate major program efforts and make recommendations for enhancing future programming.

Program Management:                                                                                                        30%

• Prepare and submit grant proposals to secure additional program funding, including salary support growing to about 25% of salary three years from start date, with the ability to identify, anticipate and recommend future budget and supply needs.
• Ensure compliance with the evaluation and reporting requirements of funding partners.
•  Individually and collaboratively identify, secure, and sustain new additional funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities.
• Responsible for preparing one or more program budgets, oversight, reporting and accountability for department 4-H endowment funds (Willman, Rice).
• Support team efforts of communication with stakeholders and partners
• Support team efforts in planning and implementing regional and statewide events, including Adult/Teen Volunteer Leadership training, State and National 4-H Contests and Events, Skillathons, Animal Crackers, and 4-H Career Explorations.
• Oversee 4-H animal science educational activities as appropriate related to NYS Fair.
• In coordination with administrative assistant, support national 4-H travel team opportunities in livestock and poultry areas across the United States.

• Utilize youth development-based research to develop and implement educational materials and programs within appropriate guidelines and considering the diverse needs of the community.
• Maintain current resources and program materials, making regular recommendations for website updates.
• Expand effective communication and working relationships with appropriate partners, other educational institutions, governmental agencies, and youth-serving Ag organizations.
• Maintain relationships with Cornell K-12 outreach networks, including the NYS 4-H Youth Development staff team, attend community stakeholder meetings, etc., as appropriate.

• Support Cornell University and Cooperative Extension system-wide initiatives through participation in program work teams, ad-hoc committees, and advisory groups.
• Participate in regional, statewide, and national work groups related to Cornell University, Cooperative Extension, the animal industry, and the 4-H Youth Development profession.
• Foster strong collaboration among faculty, peers, and industry stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with individuals and groups that support the work of the organization, including those who identify a community need and communicate impact. (e.g., NYS 4-H Foundation)
• Collaborate with colleagues responsible for multiple delivery methods, such as 4-H county-based club managers, after school, Ag in the Classroom, residential camps, and directors of statewide CCE conferences and trainings.

• Participate in professional meetings, in-service trainings, and other educational programs to develop skills and enhance capabilities to foster professional and personal growth to contribute to excellence in fulfilling the responsibilities of the position.
• Stay up to date with best practices in teaching technology to provide educational programming for K-12 audiences.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Animal Science, Agriculture Education, or other relevant fields from an accredited institution.
• 8+ years of progressively responsible and relevant work experience in 4-H youth animal science programs or equivalent K-12 educational settings.
• 3+ years of experience providing information dissemination through the use of professional development and/or technical assistance to practitioners in youth STEM fields.
• Experience in planning, implementing, and evaluating youth curricula and programs.
• Knowledge of and direct livestock farm operations and multiple species handling experience.
• Strong desire and ability to function in a team setting, with self-motivation to work independently with minimal direction.
• Demonstrated experience in leading teams and mentoring, coaching, and supervising paid staff and volunteers, including students.
• Experience working with diverse populations representative of New York state citizens and a commitment to helping ensure diverse, equitable and inclusive programming. 1+ years of successful grant writing, fund development and/or grant management experience. (Managing program budgets over $50,000).
• Ability to conceptualize and communicate youth development principles and knowledge of the philosophy, objectives, and operation of an informal education system such as Cornell Cooperative Extension.
• Proven organizational and time-management skills with the ability to provide direction and oversight as required.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Fundamental competence utilizing current technology as a management and program delivery tool (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, marketing and publication software, SharePoint, Internet web-based communication tools, i.e., Zoom and social media platforms).
• Be familiar with and demonstrate the ability to follow applicable federal, state, local and University policies, procedures, and requirements in working with K-12 audiences and in fiduciary and risk management roles.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends, including occasional overnight stays, as essential job functions require.
• 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.
• Must exercise sound and ethical judgment when acting on behalf of the University.

This position is full-time and will be located in Ithaca, New York. This is a five-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D./Doctoral/Professional Degree in Animal and/or Agricultural Sciences Education may substitute for 2 years of work experience.
• Practical or personal experience within the animal industry (animal management best practices).
• Experience with 4-H Program Management and staff supervisory roles.
  
• Coursework in research and evaluation methodology, education, and management experience is highly preferred.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/22639).

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.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

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