Job No. 158907
- Job Title:
- Extension Educator, Agriculture Production Systems (Nicollet, Sibley counties)
- Employer:
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University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Location:
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Twin Cities , MN
- Posting Date:
- 29-Jun-2026
- Description:
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Primary Responsibilities
60% Program and Resource Design/Development, Delivery and Evaluation
Programming
Design, develop, deliver/implement, and evaluate local agricultural, horticultural, and natural resource programs based on local needs and expectations, ensuring accessibility for all.
Conduct routine formal and/or informal needs assessments across counties to inform program development and delivery.
Identify, curate, and provide research-based resources in agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources.
Provide relevant program delivery and support for agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources, utilizing numerous delivery methods.
Adapt Extension programs and resources for audiences with a range of knowledge, background, and cultures.
Coordinate and Connect
Work in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) agencies, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD), Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), county environmental and land management services, and agricultural and natural resources professional organizations to provide educational programs relevant to the county.
Work collaboratively with other Extension Educators, Program Leaders, volunteers, participants and stakeholders
Coordinate with program teams to develop and amplify resources across a wide range of timely and relevant agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources education content.
Related duties as assigned
15% Program Operations, Communication and Reporting
Build and maintain strategic partnerships across Sibley and Nicollet Counties, the University, and relevant Departments to support local producers and enhance program delivery.
Represent the University of Minnesota Extension as a collaborative liaison, ensuring all interactions reflect the organization’s mission and values.
Execute multi-channel communication plans (social media, video, and print) to engage stakeholders and promote the impact of agricultural, horticultural, and natural resource programs in consultation with the Extension communications team.
Translate complex data into public value stories, delivering regular impact reports to County Extension Committees and local stakeholders.
Ensure operational excellence by monitoring compliance with organizational policies and documenting performance through annual reviews and professional plans of work.
Commit to continuous professional growth by staying current on industry research and seeking opportunities for promotion and advanced learning.
15% Master Gardener Program Management
Provide oversight for the Master Gardener program core functions, which includes: maintaining a regular system of communication with and among volunteers in coordination with the State Program, financial management, oversee local data entered into the statewide database; and ensure compliance with program policies and guidelines.
10% Technical Assistance
Provide technical assistance and information in the areas of crops, livestock, agriculture business management, manure management planning and horticulture based on local needs and expectations.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in an agriculture related discipline, i.e., livestock production, plant science, soil science, agricultural economics, agriculture education, and/or other closely related field.
Demonstrated strong English oral and written communication skills.
A proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships and collaborations with all colleagues, partners, and stakeholders, including serving all Minnesotans
Skilled in Microsoft and Google Workspace applications.
Additional Requirements
Must have a valid driver's license and own means of reliable transportation with required liability insurance.
Ability to work regularly at dedicated/assigned Extension offices.
When not in the assigned office location, employees must be reachable with a mobile or alternate number at the employee's own expense. That number will be published in the Extension staff directory.
Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including evening and weekend work.
Working ability to perform tasks involving sitting or standing, bending, twisting, with occasional exertion of up to thirty pounds of force.
Ability to work on a computer for prolonged periods of time.
Must be able to lift, push, pull 20 lbs routinely and 40 lbs rarely, as well as sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.
This position often works in the community. Must be able to travel several times per week and regionally/statewide multiple times per year. Reimbursement for travel and subsistence is available in accordance with University policy.
Must be eligible to work in the United States; this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree; preferably in an agriculture related discipline.
Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) or Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) or desire to obtain such certification
Experience developing and delivering informal education programs in agriculture.
Experience using technology for communication, information finding, teaching, and reporting.
Experience using distance technologies and social media to market and deliver educational programming.
Previous experience in Extension or another educationally related position.
Ability to engage in web-based communication, education, and training.
Ability to articulate the public value of educational programming in agriculture.
- Contact information:
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Twin Cities, MN 55455
- United States
- Employer's Website:
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