Ocean Career: Aquaculture Specialist at Sea Grant

Aquaculture Extension Specialist

You will be responsible for integrating Sea Grant Extension and University aquaculture programming initiatives in a statewide, regional, and/or national context.

Specifically, the position will:

• Provide extension programming related to all forms of aquaculture, from shellfish to finfish to seaweed, from land-based to open water systems.
• Develop extension, outreach, and educational materials and training programs to support a vibrant and sustainable aquaculture industry and related research agenda for New York State.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate a stakeholder engagement process for identifying the status, constraints, and opportunities for aquaculture in New York.

The job duties include:

• Developing, disseminating, and applying sound scientific, technical, and related research knowledge to support sustainable aquaculture.
• Planning and conducting extension education programs related to aquaculture and developing significant new subject matter materials such as curricula and extension education publications.
• Developing networks of volunteers and/or public/private professionals (experts) to assist in educational program development.
• Providing leadership for the design, execution, and analysis of extension/outreach program evaluations.
• Actively pursuing outside grants and contracts.

Requirements:

We are looking for an individual who excels at building relationships with multiple stakeholders, such as environmental groups, fishers, and aquaculture businesses. We need someone who is self-motivated and has strong customer service skills with a focus on excellence. Additionally, we need someone who has:

• Master's degree in Aquaculture, Agricultural Economics, Business, or other related fields.
• 2+ years of experience working with outreach or similar public education program.
• Knowledge of principles, theory, research, extension methods, and educational materials in the subject matter field related to aquaculture.
• Advanced computer skills and the ability to use computer and long-distance education technologies in this area of extension programming expertise.
• Demonstrated ability to develop K-12 and/or adult education programs.
• Define, conduct, and interpret original applied research and/or demonstration projects.
• Lead and effectively participate in professional team efforts.
• Relate effectively to co-workers, advisors, various stakeholders (e.g., fishers, shipping interests, non-consumptive recreation users, etc.), community and professional leaders, and targeted audiences.
• Communicate effectively through oral, written, and visual channels.
• Ability to work effectively independently or within groups.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation, as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience engaging with diverse communities.
• Experience using long-distance education technologies in extension or outreach.

Final date to receive applications: Applications must be submitted by September 25, 2022

Location: Stony Brook, New York

Contract: This is a two-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance.