Program Associate - Cotton Verification Coordinator

Cotton Extension Agronomist

The position serves as the Coordinator for the Arkansas Cotton Research Verification Program. The Verification Program is an integrated Extension education program for transferring research technology to the farm. The Verification Program is a collaborative Extension program involving cotton growers, county Extension agents, and the coordinator. The program is under the direction of an advisory committee consisting of Extension faculty and researchers with cotton responsibility.

Job Duties:

• Plans and conducts the Cotton Verification Programs as outlined by the programs goals and objectives in cooperation with county extension agents, producers, faculty and Cotton Incorporated.
• Incorporates interdisciplinary planning between soybean, rice, corn and grain sorghum verification program coordinators.
• Meets with an advisory committee for planning future projects to be entered into the program.
• Provides training of county agents, consultants, and producers in the implementation of Best Management Practices in the areas of weed and insect management as well as irrigation efficiency while updating and training in the areas of precision agriculture and new technologies.
• Coordinates and conducts on-farm field trials to verify the utility of research based recommendations with the intent of optimizing potential for profits, aiding researchers in identifying areas of production that require further study, improving or refining existing recommendations which will contribute to more profitable production, and increasing county agents expertise in crops.
• Uses program participants, advisory committee members and other interested parties to evaluate the program. Evaluation conducted by use of the advisory committee meetings, one on one interviews, producer surveys, program data and state agricultural statistic data.
• Assists in securing and managing funds and report findings. Reports these findings to the advisory committee, Cotton Incorporated State Funding Committee, and other interested persons.
• Assists with developing Extension publications, educational materials, print media, and teaching aids. Uses the website and weekly newsletters to provide weekly updates of crop condition, and current IPM practices. Collaborates with other verification coordinators to carry out other assigned duties.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

A Bachelor's degree in agriculture or related area with three (3) years of relevant professional experience, OR a related Master's degree is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

A Master's degree in crop science, soil science, pest management, or a closely related field is preferred. Extension experience and/or experience establishing and evaluating demonstrations is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Excellent written & verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, data management, & email programs. A high level of technical competence in the area of responsibility. Ability to develop & deliver quality presentations. Ability to exercise initiative, make sound judgments, & work without close supervision. Ability to relate & respond to the needs of supervisors, subordinates, & clientele.

Salary Information: $46,000.00

Required Documents to Apply:
Resume

Special Instructions to Applicants:

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

Pre-employment Screening Requirements:

Motor Vehicle Reports Check

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture may conduct pre-employment background checks on certain positions for applicants being considered for employment. The background checks may include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal background check or arrest pending adjudication information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absences of a relationship to the requirements of the position.

Background check information will be used in a consistent, non-discriminatory manner consistent with the state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual preference, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

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