Extension Educator - Field and Forage Crops

The Extension Educator provides statewide leadership and subject-matter expertise as within of the Penn State Extension Agronomy and Natural Resources Unit. As a member of the Field and Forage Crops Extension Team, this position expands Penn State Extension’s capacity to deliver high-quality educational programming, provide technical support to agricultural producers, and contribute to applied research that addresses emerging agronomic challenges across Pennsylvania.

Program Development & Delivery:
Identify priority educational needs in collaboration with the Field and Forage Crops Extension Team. Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs related to agronomy, nutrient management, and crop production systems. Deliver programming through a variety of methods, including workshops, field days, online courses, webinars, videos, and publications. Create original, research-based educational content for diverse audiences. Support statewide program initiatives and contribute to team-based educational efforts.

Technical Assistance & Producer Support:
Provide technical assistance to agricultural producers on agronomic practices, nutrient management, and crop production systems. Promote adoption of sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices. Support implementation of practices that improve water quality by reducing nutrient and pesticide losses. Assist producers in adopting pest management strategies that reduce environmental impact and resistance risks.

Applied Research &

Collaboration:

Collaborate with university-based faculty to develop and conduct applied research relevant to stakeholder needs. Participate in interdisciplinary projects across Extension program teams and external partners. Foster relationships with agricultural agencies, agribusinesses, and service providers to strengthen program impact. Communicate local and statewide needs to research and Extension teams.

Community Engagement & Relationship Management:
Serve as a representative of Penn State Extension across the assigned region and statewide. Build and maintain relationships with agricultural producers, industry partners, and governmental agencies. Engage with diverse audiences through educational programming and outreach efforts. Identify emerging issues in agronomy and natural resource management and respond through Extension programming.

Program Funding & Professional Contribution:
Contribute to the development of external funding through grants, contracts, and cost-recovery programs. Participate in team efforts to secure and manage program funding. Contribute to written reports, articles, and other program documentation. Provide leadership within programming teams and collaborative initiatives.

Professional Development &

Collaboration:

Actively participate in Extension program teams and statewide initiatives. Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and expand technical expertise. Collaborate with Extension colleagues, faculty, and partners to enhance program effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:

Strong written and verbal communication skills in English. Demonstrated teaching, facilitation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with diverse audiences. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.

Technical & Operational Requirements:
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and virtual communication platforms. Ability to develop and deliver digital and in-person educational programming. Ability to travel frequently and work across multiple counties. Ability to lift and…