Professional Aide- Agriculture Research

Position Summary (Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on‑call position providing professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term:
Temps can work two (2) nine‑month terms with a week break in service in between and terminate at the end of the second term for three (3) months or switch to an on‑call. On‑call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve‑month period.

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment, which requires all staff to contribute toward a vision for success regardless of title or position within the organization. We strive to create a positive culture, access to resources, and a sense of belonging for staff, partners, and programming participants. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following principles:

• We work together to ensure that programming is available to all audiences, creates meaningful and positive impacts for participants, and demonstrates partnership and collaboration across communities.
• We understand that a welcoming and respectful environment is built through the efforts of everyone.
• We foster an environment that welcomes a broad range of perspectives and experiences, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
• We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and supportive culture.
• We foster an environment that values a range of perspectives, skills, and experiences by working to ensure access to programming for communities.
• We commit to continuous learning and engagement to better serve Michigan residents and meet the evolving needs of communities.
• We recognize that broad accessibility and collaboration are essential elements of our work and are vital to organizational and programmatic success.
• We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching, and feedback toward achieving a vision of success for the entire organization and its staff.
• Together we will achieve success and we commit to these goals in our work, continued education, and ongoing efforts.

Support staff will assist with applied field crop, forage, organic vegetable and hemp research projects, while spending their days on an idyllic farm in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. Common tasks include seed handling and testing, planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, harvest, data collection, data entry and direct interaction with farmers and the general public. These seasonal positions prepare individuals for careers in commercial agriculture, applied field research, agriculture and natural resources education, and more.

• Proven ability to establish and work with a diverse network of constituents and community members across race, gender, socioeconomic class, disabilities, and other differences to assist with program development and outreach.
• Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.
• Combination of education and specific, relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and use of appropriate approaches, skills and techniques, which reflect an understanding and awareness of social, cultural and economic diversity of the target population served.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Transportation is the responsibility of the employee.
• Proficiency in use of technology (web research, Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail / calendaring, distance technology, etc.).
• Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position.

Resume, Cover Letter, 3 Professional References

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

STANDARD 8-5