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Extension Educator, Agriculture Production Systems (Nicollet, Sibley counties)

University of Minnesota
life insurance, paid holidays
United States, Minnesota, Minneapolis
319 15th Avenue Southeast (Show on map)
Jun 30, 2026
Apply for Job Job ID 374505 Location All Other -See Job Description Job Family Education Full/Part Time Full-Time Regular/Temporary Regular Job Code 9621AN Employee Class Acad Prof and Admin Add to Favorite Jobs Email this Job About the Job Title: Extension Educator, Agriculture Production Systems Job code: 9621AN Employee Group: Academic Professional Full/Part Time (FTE): Full-time (100% time), funded by Nicollet County at .5 FTE and Sibley County at .5 FTE Regular/Temporary: Regular Office location: Nicollet County Extension Office, St. Peter, MN and Sibley County Extension Office, Gaylord, MN; position will office in both office locations and in both communities Estimated salary range: $58,000 - $68,000; depending on qualifications Apply by: July 17, 2026 About the Job The Extension Educator (EE) for Nicollet and Sibley Counties is a public-facing academic professional responsible for local program development, delivery, and evaluation in agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources (ANR). The EE builds community networks, provides technical assistance, and will assist the local leadership of the local Master Gardener program to support the economic and environmental vitality of the region. Local stakeholders prioritize soil health, nutrient management, cover crops, water quality, and manure management programming. The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to apply knowledge to new and future programs that support and enhance the production and economic development of agriculture in both counties. Effort will be required to maintain competency in multiple Agriculture and Natural Resource Systems (ANR) discipline areas as well as familiarity with local/federal/state related programs. Internal promotion is available and meeting the promotion policy criteria to achieve promotion is expected. Location and Work Environment This is an in-person role and the Extension Educator will have office responsibilities in both Nicollet and Sibley counties each week. Travel and workdays inside and outside the office to deliver programming, provide technical assistance, and related duties are essential functions of this position. Reimbursement for travel and subsistence is available in accordance with University policy. Must be able to drive self, typically light or moderate supplies and occasionally other people as an essential function of this position. Work Schedule This is a 100% salaried position with typical work day office hours and will include evenings and weekends to accommodate needs to the counties and audiences. Primary Responsibilities 60% Program and Resource Design/Development, Delivery and Evaluation Programming Design, develop, deliver/implement, and evaluate local agricultural, horticultural, and natural resource programs based on local needs and expectations, ensuring accessibility for all. Conduct routine formal and/or informal needs assessments across counties to inform program development and delivery. Identify, curate, and provide research-based resources in agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources. Provide relevant program delivery and support for agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources, utilizing numerous delivery methods. Adapt Extension programs and resources for audiences with a range of knowledge, background, and cultures. Coordinate and Connect Work in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) agencies, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD), Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), county environmental and land management services, and agricultural and natural resources professional organizations to provide educational programs relevant to the county. Work collaboratively with other Extension Educators, Program Leaders, volunteers, participants and stakeholders Coordinate with program teams to develop and amplify resources across a wide range of timely and relevant agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources education content. Related duties as assigned 15% Program Operations, Communication and Reporting Build and maintain strategic partnerships across Sibley and Nicollet Counties, the University, and relevant Departments to support local producers and enhance program delivery. Represent the University of Minnesota Extension as a collaborative liaison, ensuring all interactions reflect the organization's mission and values. Execute multi-channel communication plans (social media, video, and print) to engage stakeholders and promote the impact of agricultural, horticultural, and natural resource programs in consultation with the Extension communications team. Translate complex data into public value stories, delivering regular impact reports to County Extension Committees and local stakeholders. Ensure operational excellence by monitoring compliance with organizational policies and documenting performance through annual reviews and professional plans of work. Commit to continuous professional growth by staying current on industry research and seeking opportunities for promotion and advanced learning. 15% Master Gardener Program Management Provide oversight for the Master Gardener program core functions, which includes: maintaining a regular system of communication with and among volunteers in coordination with the State Program, financial management, oversee local data entered into the statewide database; and ensure compliance with program policies and guidelines. 10% Technical Assistance Provide technical assistance and information in the areas of crops, livestock, agriculture business management, manure management planning and horticulture based on local needs and expectations. Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in an agriculture related discipline, i.e., livestock production, plant science, soil science, agricultural economics, agriculture education, and/or other closely related field. Demonstrated strong English oral and written communication skills. A proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships and collaborations with all colleagues, partners, and stakeholders, including serving all Minnesotans Skilled in Microsoft and Google Workspace applications. Additional Requirements Must have a valid driver's license and own means of reliable transportation with required liability insurance. Ability to work regularly at dedicated/assigned Extension offices. When not in the assigned office location, employees must be reachable with a mobile or alternate number at the employee's own expense. That number will be published in the Extension staff directory. Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including evening and weekend work. Working ability to perform tasks involving sitting or standing, bending, twisting, with occasional exertion of up to thirty pounds of force. Ability to work on a computer for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to lift, push, pull 20 lbs routinely and 40 lbs rarely, as well as sit or stand for prolonged periods of time. This position often works in the community. Must be able to travel several times per week and regionally/statewide multiple times per year. Reimbursement for travel and subsistence is available in accordance with University policy. Must be eligible to work in the United States; this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree; preferably in an agriculture related discipline. Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) or Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) or desire to obtain such certification Experience developing and delivering informal education programs in agriculture. Experience using technology for communication, information finding, teaching, and reporting. Experience using distance technologies and social media to market and deliver educational programming. Previous experience in Extension or another educationally related position. Ability to engage in web-based communication, education, and training. Ability to articulate the public value of educational programming in agriculture. About the Department University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high-quality, passionate employees. Find further information on the Extension website. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $58,000 - $68,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience Time Appointment: 100% Appointment Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience. How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647. Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. About University of Minnesota The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.