Extension Program Coordinator; -H - University of Illinois Extension

Extension Program Coordinator (4-H) – University of Illinois Extension

Unit 26, Sparta

Supports promotion, expansion, and implementation of University of Illinois Extension 4-H Youth Development Programs in schools and communities.

• Program Coordination and Development
  • Coordinate and deliver educational programming in schools and community settings under the guidance of the 4-H Youth Development Educator.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with schools, teachers, and community partners to expand access to 4-H programming.
  • Identify and respond to community needs through program development, with an emphasis on reaching underserved audiences.
  • Support implementation of county and unit-wide 4-H initiatives (e.g., Teens as Teachers, recognition events, and 4-H shows).
  • Engage youth participants and cultivate interest in 4-H opportunities; collaborate with the County 4-H Program Coordinator to refer interested youth and adults for formal enrollment and volunteer onboarding.
  • Evaluate program effectiveness and recommend improvements, continuation, or discontinuation.
  • Maintain accurate program records and enter required data in reporting systems on a monthly basis.
• Marketing & Networking
  • Develop and implement outreach strategies to recruit youth participants and volunteers, with emphasis on schools and community-based settings.
  • Represent the University of Illinois Extension and 4-H at community events, including coordinating and facilitating outreach/tabling efforts to increase program visibility and engagement.
  • Collaborate with unit marketing staff to utilize a variety of promotion methods, including social media and printed materials.
  • Network and collaborate with community organizations, schools, and partners to assess needs and develop responsive programming through participation in community meetings and coalitions.
• Organizational Duties
  • Participate in professional development opportunities.
  • Attend staff meetings as scheduled, and provide updates to Extension staff and Extension Council on accomplishments and activities.
  • Comply with affirmative action/equal opportunity policies and guidelines in all aspects of University of Illinois Extension work.
  • Comply with all University of Illinois Extension and USDA policies and procedures in programs and employment.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Employee will perform work within an office and outside in the communities served, and must travel between locations. Personal transportation is required; a valid driver’s license is preferred. Some work may require evenings and/or weekends. Exposure to environmental factors including hot or cold weather, noise, allergens, uneven ground, and physical demands such as lifting up to forty (40) pounds.

• High school graduation or GED.
• Four (4) years/48 months of responsible volunteer or professional experience coordinating educational and/or community programs or activities.
• College coursework in any field of study equivalent to 24, 36, or 48 months (60, 90 or 120 semester hours).
• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and implement youth-focused educational programs; knowledge of youth development topics such as career readiness, leadership, health, volunteer management, natural resources, creative arts, and STEM; ability to communicate, present, and engage youth audiences.

• Effective communication and collaboration with all audiences.
• Ability to work effectively with others individually and in groups.
• Ability to operate computer systems.
• Attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, and multi-tasking.

100% full-time Civil Service 0929 – Extension Program Coordinator, appointed on a 12‑month basis. Expected start date as soon as possible. Salary $43,000.

Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates.