Extension Educator - Inland Lakes Shoreline Educator

Extension Educator - Inland Lakes Shoreline Educator

Posted on August 24, 2026

As part of MSU Extension (MSUE) and the Community, Food and Environment Institute (CFEI), this position provides local as well as statewide leadership and educational programming expertise in support of MSU Extension’s Center for Lakes and Streams, as well as a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) funded project focused on advancing lake stewardship in Michigan. You will work to identify, design, implement and evaluate research-based educational programs that meet current and projected outreach needs related to the adoption of best management practices (BMPs) in lakes statewide, with an emphasis on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula.

Through your leadership, you will conduct site visits, provide technical assistance, and deliver educational programming that ultimately results in shoreline habitat restoration efforts that include native plantings, bioengineering, and adoption of upland stormwater BMPs. Through collaboration in research, engagement with community members, and dissemination of research-based information through various methods, including in‑person and multimedia programming and written communications, you will explore and implement programs that lead to public knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors that encourage adoption of best practices that support inland lake health.

You will also develop, produce, and deliver outreach materials with messaging and content that is accessible and is consistent with Community, Food and Environment Institute, and the MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams messaging. There are multiple MSU Extension County office spaces available that this position can be based from, including Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Keweenaw, Baraga, and Iron Counties.

Other office locations in the UP will be considered based on the unique circumstances of the selected individual. This position may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment, however, there is an expectation to work from a MSU Extension County office. The needs, responsibilities, and opportunities of an individual’s position and office location drive the ability and amount of work‑location flexibility.

Identify, develop, conduct, and evaluate innovative educational programs that meet current and projected statewide needs, and supports growth and understanding of critical issues facing people in Michigan. Develop and maintain positive working relationships intra- and inter‑organizationally and create and promote positive public relations for MSU Extension and the CFEI. Understand and support the Community, Food and Environment Institute’s efforts in culture, access, belonging, and Civil Rights, with a special emphasis on removing barriers from participation and reaching all populations, including but not limited to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status, socio‑economic class and other human differences in rural, suburban and urban communities, and where applicable, increasing programmatic delivery and participation in urban centers.

Communicate and interact with community groups to evaluate the needs of the clientele. In concert with the MSU Extension work team(s), work with federal, state, and county agencies to complete needs assessment of the community and develop effective programming. Serve as an information resource to clientele, partners, and Extension staff. Develop and utilize appropriate media methods to communicate current and timely information, research results, and relevant industry updates, as well as a schedule of current and future activities.

Collaborate with MSU Extension staff to gather and report programming outputs and impacts, to demonstrate program effectiveness, and to guide future program priorities for MSU Extension, the CFEI and work teams. Actively participate in professional development opportunities. Author, produce, and submit regular research‑based educational materials and articles. Other duties or projects as assigned by the Institute Director.

Minimum Qualifications (see full description for complete list of requirements)

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a field of study related to aquatic ecology, limnology, fisheries management, science communication, or related field must be earned by date of hire.

Masters

Comprehensive benefits package: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..html

Commensurate with education and experience.

Final date to receive applications:
August 31, 2026

Michigan State University Extension