Ag Economic Development Specialist-Oriskany,NY

The Ag Economic Development Specialist will concentrate efforts on enhancing the economic viability of agricultural enterprises in Oneida County. The primary audience for programming includes agricultural producers and related service providers; new entrepreneurs in production, processing and agriculture related businesses including agricultural tourism; and community members whose support of agriculture is important. Projects include a focus on enhancing the viability of local agriculture through product diversification, direct marketing, promotion of local product labels and value-added opportunities by linking with available expertise including other local and regional Extension staff and Cornell University faculty.

This person will work with and coordinate a variety of agriculture and community stakeholders to implement Oneida County’s Ag and Farmland Protection Plan.

Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, economics, marketing, business, or related field. Working knowledge and experience related to agriculture and farming. Ability to plan, manage, and/or implement projects and educational programs. Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate (verbally and written) with and provide guidance to a variety of groups, including community partners, community members, agricultural stakeholders, government officials, and CCE staff to meet individual and community needs.

Ability to multi-task, prioritize and work as part of a team. Demonstrated ability to manage grant projects and contracts. Demonstrated competencies in communicating via electronic technologies and software. At least one year of professional experience dealing with the public or private sectors of agricultural industry and/or promoting and enhancing agricultural development within the context of more general county and region-wide economic development goals and vision.

Capacity to link industry and producer needs with available expertise and to apply expert information to local situations. Proficiency or ability to learn and effectively use software including use of the internet and Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, Excel). Demonstrated ability to function as a team member working with staff. Ability to meet travel requirements associated with this position.

Ability to meet acceptable background check standards. Ability to work flexible hours which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.

Program Development- 5% Apply subject matter knowledge to provide input in the creation of innovative educational programs around agricultural economic development. Support the research, identification, and selection of existing resources for the program. Create program materials to address client needs in local farming communities. Interpret Association program direction to create educational programs, ensuring program development is within local and statewide Plans of Work.

Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and program units and regional ag communities for program development guidance.

Program Delivery- 25% Apply subject matter expertise of agricultural business development in the delivery of educational programming in a variety of methodologies including teaching program participants via workshops, on-on-one consultations, and mass media. Foster acceptance of program, methods, and policies to address community and individual needs. Serve as subject matter resource in agricultural marketing and business development to provide moderately complex nonstandard responses to questions specific to individual farms/businesses.

Interact with farmers and business owners in a professional manner as part of program delivery, helping them meet their desired goals. Implement Farmland Protection Plan as part of program delivery. Represent CCE before the public and local agricultural community, community leaders, government officials, Cornell, or other land grant universities as part of program delivery. May be actively involved in multidisciplinary and/or multi-association team efforts to deliver program.

Maintain direct linkage…