Assistant Program Leader, -H Youth Development

University of Illinois Extension

WHOWE ARE As partof the Land Grant system, the University of Illinois was established not onlyto provide world class education and pioneer research and discovery, but to put learning and discovery into practice, to benefit the health and wellbeing of residents and communities in every part of Illinois. Extension is the university’s statewide network of educators, faculty experts, and staff dedicated to that mission. To learn more about University of Illinois Extension, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..
OUR COMMITMENT TO EMPLOYEES We will invest in our employees,our most important resource, by providing professional development and training that enables you to learn and grow to your full potential. We will strive toprovide a healthy work-life balance for all our employees, regardless of role.

Together, we will maintain a culture that promotes inclusivity, teamwork, andan environment that challenges and rewards our employees.
JOB PURPOSE Oversee the positive youth development program components of the University of Illinois Extension 4-HYouth Development program. The position is part of the State 4-H Office basedin Champaign, IL that provides strategic program leadership for 4-H activities delivered by staff in all 102 counties and metro areas of the state. This position will be responsible for providing strategic leadership for programming and strategic goal planning that reaches nearly 260,000 across the state and supervise all 4-H program staff in the State 4-H Office.

• Master’s degree in youth development, education, social work or related field. Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews, but degree must be completed by hire date.
• At least five (5) years of full-time relevant professional experience.
• Experience mentoring and supporting interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience in strategic program planning.

• PhD in a related field.
• Demonstrated progressive, innovative, and effective program leadership/management.
• Familiarity with 4-H youth programs.
• Valid driver’s license.

SPECIFIC JOB INFORMATION: One full-time positions is available.
Location: Champaign, IL (Position will be located at the State 4-H Office) In-state hybrid work may be available with supervisor authorization andin compliance with Extension and university policies.

THIS IS A SECURITY-SENSITIVE POSITION. Comprehensive background checks, including but not limited to a criminal conviction information check, a CANTS check, and a review of the Registered Sex Offender list, will be conducted.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervision and Management:

• Provide direct supervision to the Specialists and Associates (10 direct reports) in the Illinois State 4-H Office. (STEM, Natural Resources & Shooting Sports, Creative & Cultural Arts, College & Career Readiness, Leadership, Healthy Living, Livestock/Animal Science, Food Systems, New Audiences & Outreach, Club Support & Awards)
• Supervise the Events and Communications Coordinator and provide direction in the planning of key events for Illinois 4-H staff.
• Direct state program staff in developing annual plan of work and conduct annual performance appraisals; manage and support the Specialist promotional pathway process for direct reports.
• Provide professional development opportunities to staff to enhance collaboration and connection to the Illinois Extension strategic plan and National 4-H initiatives; assist in planning and leading State 4-H staff meetings.
• Collaborate with the Senior Program Leads and Managers within the State 4-H Office as a team to ensure staff development, data collection and evaluation, financial operations, human resource management, alumni engagement, and marketing/branding opportunities.

Strategic Program Planning and Development:

• Provide leadership to ongoing and innovative 4-H youth development programs programmatically led by Specialists/Associates in the State 4-H Office.
• Lead and guide project curriculum/resource development and updates and statewide signature programs and events in partnership with administrative staff.
• Supervise and manage a statewide, peer-review process to support creation of evidence-based curriculum and programs to address the needs of the state, ensuring a strong research-based foundation.
• Lead an intentional charge to be accessible to all youth of Illinois, in accordance with the Civil Rights Act, Title IX, Rehabilitation, Americans with Disabilities Act, and the…