Extension Instructor or Extension Educator - Livestock Systems; Brown

Overview

This twelve‑month, non‑tenure track position is based in Ainsworth, NE, with accountability to Brown, Rock, and Keya Paha Counties. The Livestock Systems Extension Instructor or Open Rank Extension Educator will focus on integrated livestock systems, developing co‑learning engagements for producers, allied industry, and stakeholders in the beef and small ruminant sectors.

The agriculture sector is the economic driver of Nebraska, with beef cattle as its largest component. The role supports producers and industry partners to make research‑based decisions that enhance stewardship, profitability, and quality of life. Expected outcomes include:

• Engagement strategies that build lasting relationships with livestock producers, industry leaders, allied industries, and commodity groups.
• Educational opportunities that improve resource stewardship and profitability for the livestock sector.
• Collaborative programs that address all components of livestock production systems—natural resources, production management, and finance.

• Exemplify professionalism toward colleagues, clients, and partners.
• Develop and deliver innovative, engaging educational programs using effective teaching methods and strategies.
• Establish and sustain a strong local and regional clientele base and document the programming portfolio.
• Employ innovative strategies and technologies to design, implement, and assess Extension programs at county, regional, and statewide levels.
• Engage learners in collaborative problem‑solving environments with assistants, educators, and specialists.
• Collaborate closely with Extension specialists to fulfill responsibilities.
• Work with specialists and research faculty to conduct applied research that can be amplified through multiple engagement platforms.
• Contribute to multidisciplinary teams translating research-based information to stakeholders.
• Partner with local, regional, and statewide leaders to address high‑priority issues.
• Foster a culture of collaboration that nurtures positive relationships among the University, its partners, and the communities served.
• Employ entrepreneurial practices to secure funding and partnerships, enhancing program reach and impact.
• Create ongoing programming revenue to support unit viability.
• Lead and contribute to high‑performing Extension teams.
• Pursue personal and professional development opportunities related to the role.
• Support youth development programs in related areas.
• Conduct needs assessments, develop learning platforms, measure impact, and report findings to Extension boards, county commissioners, state senators, stakeholders, and in professional publications.
• For educators: collaborate with lead educators, specialists, advisory committees, and stakeholders to assess needs and provide engagement opportunities via focus groups, surveys, and stakeholder meetings.
• Participate in teams that strategize on current or future needs across program areas.
• Creatively foster collaboration with local leaders and accountability to build positive relationships among the University and communities.
• Provide open and welcoming learning environments.
• Complete PEARS data entry and reporting requirements.
• Fulfill annual IANR reporting requirements, including an individual impact report.

• Serve as a Lead Educator, collaborating with supervisors to support role responsibilities.
• Coordinate with Engagement Zone Coordinators and other Extension professionals to promote Extension’s educational opportunities.
• Cooperate with local faculty and staff to promote Extension’s impact in the host county.
• Cultivate collaboration with local leaders and community members.
• Support engagement of advisory or policy groups such as the Extension Board, Ag Society, or County Commissioners.
• Adhere to Equal Employment Opportunity compliance efforts.
• Accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments at the administrative unit, college/division, institute, or university level.

Some travel is required; candidates must meet driver standards per UNL policy and possess a valid driver’s license.

Tuiti…