Field Specialist in Agricultural Business – Taney County, MO

Job Summary

Assistant/Associate/Full Extension Professional, Employment

Location:

Forsyth, Missouri. Serves Taney, Wright, Webster, Greene, Texas, Ozark, Douglas, and Christian Counties and may serve other statewide locations. Works 12‑month ranked, non‑tenure track appointment.

Working title:

Field Specialist in Agricultural Business. Workload: 90% Extension Teaching, 10% Traditional Service.

• Plan, implement, and evaluate educational programs that support agricultural and agribusiness development, improve quality of life, enhance economic viability, and protect natural resources.
• Assist agricultural operators and agribusinesses with decision‑making, financial management, taxes, and risk mitigation.
• Assess new business opportunities and emerging economic issues faced by producers, landowners, and businesses.
• Offer technical assistance contracts in collaboration with state specialists, supporting business plans, marketing plans, feasibility studies, surveys, etc.
• Connect regional and state partners with agricultural business owners when economic development opportunities arise.
• Apply interdisciplinary knowledge and collaborate with regional producer groups, state and local support entities, and other organizations to leverage efforts and funding.
• Engage stakeholders across coverage counties to identify educational needs and collaborate with internal and external partners.
• Create annual plan‑of‑work that aligns with local and statewide priorities and report monthly to county councils, supervisors, and commissioners.
• Collaborate with campus‑based specialists on research projects and disseminate findings via demonstrations, workshops, courses, publications, and media.
• Manage administrative tasks needed to support county efforts and demonstrate competencies in communication, educational programming, grant acquisition, teamwork, and professionalism.
• Provide timely, research‑based information during natural disasters or unexpected events.
• Represent the university on boards and committees for assigned program area and participate in professional development events.

An earned Master’s or higher terminal degree (MBA or Ph.D.) in agricultural economics, agricultural business, agricultural marketing, business administration, business management, or related field at the time of appointment.

Experience working with a variety of audiences. Evaluation will include qualifications and experience in accordance with faculty standards.

• Valid Missouri driver’s license and a functional personal vehicle with wireless telephone/data service.
• Will travel regularly throughout Missouri and occasionally to out‑of‑state locations.

Minimum starting salary of $58,000, final salary determined by qualifications and experience. Eligible for University benefits: medical, dental, vision, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses.

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573‑884‑7278.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor employment visas.