Extension Instructor or Extension Educator - Early Childhood; Red Willow

Position Information

Open 12‑month, non‑tenure track position in the Early Childhood E‑Center of the Nebraska Extension at the University of Nebraska. The position is based in McCook, NE and serves the counties of Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Gosper, Harlan, Hayes, Hitchcock, Phelps, and Red Willow.

As an Extension Instructor or Extension Educator, you will develop and deliver high‑quality educational programs for parents, teachers, and early childhood professionals. You will support Nebraska’s integrated land‑grant mission through research, teaching, and service.

• Exemplify professional behavior toward colleagues, clients, and partner organizations.
• Develop, deliver, and evaluate innovative educational programs and products that reach county, regional, and statewide audiences.
• Establish and sustain a strong local and regional clientele base and programming portfolio.
• Employ innovative strategies and technologies for program design and assessment.
• Collaborate with assistants, educators, and specialists to foster research‑based decision making.
• Work closely with one or more Extension specialists to fulfill responsibilities.
• Collaborate with specialists, research faculty to conduct applied and validation research.
• Translate and convey research‑based information to partners and stakeholders.
• Engage local, regional, and statewide partners to address priority issues.
• Foster a culture of collaboration with local, regional and statewide leaders.
• Obtain funding and partnerships to enhance program reach and impact.
• Create revenue‑generating programming to support viability.
• Lead and contribute to high‑performing Extension programming teams.
• Engage in professional development to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Support youth development programs related to your assignment.
• Conduct needs assessments, develop programs, measure impact, and report results to various stakeholders.
• Collaborate with leads, specialists, advisory committees, and stakeholders to assess needs and provide access through diverse platforms.
• Participate in teams focused on current or future needs and strategize in program areas.
• Foster a culture of collaboration with local leaders and accountability in the region.
• Cultivate open and welcoming learning environments.
• Complete PEARS data entry and reporting requirements.
• Fulfill annual IANR reporting requirements and individual impact reports.

• Serve in or support the Lead Educator role as outlined in the Lead Educator document, in partnership with supervisors.
• Coordinate with Engagement Zone Coordinators and local Extension professionals to strengthen Nebraska Extension presence.
• Cooperate with local faculty and staff to promote Extension’s educational opportunities and impact.
• Build collaboration with local leaders and community members to strengthen university relationships.
• Support engagement of advisory or policy groups such as the Extension Board.
• Adhere to Equal Employment Opportunity compliance efforts.
• Accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special assignments at various levels.

Some travel and a valid driver’s license are required.

Tuition remission for up to 15 credit hours per year for full‑time employees. Upon completion of a master’s degree, the position may advance to an assistant extension educator appointment.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./.

• Master’s degree in child development, human development, early childhood education, or a closely related field for educators; bachelor’s degree for instructors (with expected progress toward master’s within five years).
• Demonstrated ability to communicate information (publications, presentations, web, and social media) to various audiences.
• Successful experience teaching in formal or non‑formal education settings (preschool, K‑12).
• Knowledge and/or experience working with early childhood professionals and/or caregivers.

• Effective management of multiple priorities and programs.
• Experience working with individuals, coworkers, and teams to accomplish goals.
• Outstanding leadership skills demonstrated by roles in college, career, or community activities.

McCook, NE. Pre‑placement driving record review and criminal background check required.

Submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae or resume, and contact information for three professional references. Complete the supplemental question regarding team experiences and contributions to inclusive environments.