Extension Program Coordinator; -H - University of Illinois Extension

Extension Program Coordinator (4-H) - University of Illinois Extension

Extension - Unit 26, Marion

The Extension Program Coordinator, 4-H Youth Development supports the promotion, expansion, and implementation of University of Illinois Extension 4-H Youth Development Programs in the schools and communities.

• Program Support, Development, and Delivery
  • Coordinate and deliver educational programming in schools and community settings under the guidance of the 4-H Youth Development Educator.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with schools, teachers, and community partners to expand access to 4-H programming.
  • Identify and respond to community needs through program development, with an emphasis on reaching underserved audiences.
  • Support implementation of county and unit-wide 4-H initiatives (e.g., Teens as Teachers, recognition events, and 4-H shows).
  • Engage youth participants and cultivate interest in 4-H opportunities; collaborate with the County 4-H Program Coordinator to refer interested youth and adults for formal enrollment and volunteer onboarding.
  • Evaluate program effectiveness and recommend improvements, continuation, or discontinuation.
  • Maintain accurate program records and enter required data in reporting systems on a monthly basis.
• Marketing & Networking
  • Develop and implement outreach strategies to recruit youth participants and volunteers, with emphasis on schools and community-based settings.
  • Represent University of Illinois Extension and 4-H at community events, including coordinating and facilitating outreach/tabling efforts to increase program visibility and engagement.
  • Collaborate with unit marketing staff to utilize a variety of promotion methods, including social media and printed materials.
  • Network and collaborate with community organizations, schools, and partners to assess needs and develop responsive programming through participation in community meetings and coalitions.
• Organizational Duties
  • Participate in professional development opportunities.
  • Attend staff meetings as scheduled, and provide updates to Extension staff and Extension Council on accomplishments and activities.
  • Comply with affirmative action/equal opportunity policies and guidelines in all aspects of University of Illinois Extension work.
  • Follow all University of Illinois Extension and USDA policies and procedures in programs and employment.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

To perform the functions of this position, the employee will be required to work both within an office and outside in the communities that are served and must be able to travel between locations. Employee is responsible for personal transportation; a valid driver's license is preferred. Some work may be required during evenings and/or weekends. The position may expose the employee to a variety of environmental factors, including hot or cold weather, noise, allergens, and uneven ground.

Duties may also involve moving or transporting items that may weigh up to forty pounds, with frequent loads up to twenty pounds.

• High school graduation or GED.
• Four (4) years of responsible volunteer or professional experience in coordinating educational and/or community programs or activities, or an equivalent combination of volunteer or professional experience and college coursework.
• College coursework in any field of study totaling at least 60 semester hours (2 years).
• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and implement youth-focused educational programs.
• Working knowledge of youth development topics such as career readiness, leadership, health, volunteer management, natural resources, creative arts, and STEM.
• Effective communication, presentation, and youth audience engagement skills.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with all audiences.
• Ability to work effectively individually and in groups.
• Proficiency in operating computer systems.
• Attention to detail, prioritization, and multitasking ability.

This is a 100% full‑time Civil Service 0929 - Extension Program Coordinator position, appointed on a 12‑month basis. The…