Area Dairy Management Specialist; Cornell Cooperative Extension); CCE Ontario County Office

Area Dairy Management Specialist (Cornell Cooperative Extension); CCE Ontario County Office

Extension Associate at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is one of Cornell University’s largest colleges, pioneering purpose‑driven science across disciplines to tackle challenges of our time through research, education, and outreach. The College’s initiatives focus on achieving next‑generation scientific breakthroughs, ensuring access to nutritious food and a healthy environment, and supporting local communities for a prosperous global future.

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) provides educational outreach for Cornell’s role as New York State’s Land Grant University. The Northwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program offers opportunities and information to producers, processors, and agri‑business professionals to improve the viability and economic well‑being of New York State farms.

As the Area Dairy Management Specialist, you will provide producers and agri‑service industry stakeholders with a framework to analyze production and management alternatives and maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best‑management practices. You will work with producers to assess production and demonstrate principles and practices that maximize quality, profitability, and sustainability. Additionally, you will focus on workforce development with farm employees in English and Spanish.

Other responsibilities include:

• Planning and implementing educational programs using various methods, including direct teaching through group experiences, workshops, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology and the internet.
• Initiating and conducting field demonstrations and in‑depth applied research projects appropriate to commercial dairy production needs.
• Preparing quarterly reports and yearly impact statements on program progress and accomplishments.
• Participating in regional, statewide and national work groups related to Cornell University, CCE and the Dairy and Field Crops Industries.
• Individually and collaboratively exploring and pursuing new funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities.
• Analyzing and evaluating major program efforts with input from partners and making recommendations for enhancement.

We are looking for a dynamic individual who excels at building relationships with multiple stakeholders to identify and address industry needs, and who appreciates the dairy industry in New York State. In this role you will work with producers across several counties in the Northwest region of New York and contribute to multiple teams.

Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Dairy Science, Dairy Management, Dairy Nutrition, Education or a related discipline.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience in agribusiness, dairy management, cooperative extension or closely related fields.
• Experience conducting, interpreting, evaluating and communicating results of applied research.
• Proficient in Spanish.
• Competence in using current technology as a management and program delivery tool (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, internet and social media).
• Knowledge of the philosophy, objectives and operation of an informal education system such as CCE.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage audiences in group and one‑on‑one settings, working with advisory boards, committees, community and funding partners.
• Proven organizational and time‑management skills.
• Ability to define, conduct, and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.
• Successful experience obtaining new funding, including grants and industry support.
• Strong leadership and teamwork skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Appreciation of agriculture as a business and a lifestyle.
• Creativity, energy, motivation and positive enthusiasm.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.
• Travel requirements met and possession of a valid, unrestricted New York State driver’s license.

Additional helpful qualifications:

• Over 5 years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of current and emerging issues and production practices in Western…