Integrated Pest Management Extension Educator
Position Overview
In this position, you will identify, design, implement, and evaluate research-based educational programs that meet current and projected outreach needs related to the needs of the apple and tree fruit industries. Through your leadership, you will be expected to be an effective communicator and ensure dissemination of research- based information through various methods, including multi-media, distance education technologies, social media, written articles, and in-person meetings, and will provide growers, processors, and agri-business professionals with the knowledge to profitably produce their crop, while minimizing environmental impact. You will provide support to tree fruit growers in west Michigan to improve the sustainability of their industries. This can include but is not limited to monitoring pests and conducting Integrated Crop Management training sessions to encourage adoption of new technologies and techniques in horticulture and pest management. While you will focus on IPM efforts, you will also be expected to fully understand and take a holistic approach to tree fruit systems. Your work will include completing on-farm consultations, virtual and in-person meetings, developing educational materials, conducting demonstrations, and/or participating in on-going field research. Through collaboration in research, engagement with community members, and dissemination of research-based information through various methods, including in-person and multimedia programming and written communications, you will explore and implement programs that lead to knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors that will improve the viability of the tree fruit industries. You will also develop, produce, and deliver tree fruit integrated pest management outreach materials with messaging and content that is accessible and inclusive and is consistent with the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute messaging. This information will be essential to help Michigan tree fruit producers compete nationally and internationally with modern growing systems that incorporate cutting edge and technologically advanced IPM strategies, so to assist farmers to grow, harvest, and market a high-quality crop. Your work will include close collaboration with colleagues at MSU and MSU Extension, as well as the diverse network of partner groups that include regional and state horticultural societies and commodity associations. Acting as a statewide point of contact, you will provide support for AABI in determining research and programmatic needs across the state and will communicate and interact with commodity groups to evaluate the needs of the clientele. This position may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment, however, there is an expectation to work from the Kent County Extension Office, Grand Rapids, Michigan. The needs, responsibilities, and opportunities of an individual’s position and office location drive the ability and amount of work-location flexibility. This position is a full-time, fixed term end-dated appointment, renewable annually based upon successful performance and continued funding.
Responsibilities
Identify, develop, conduct, and evaluate innovative educational programs that meet current and projected statewide needs, and supports growth and understanding of critical issues facing people in Michigan. Develop and maintain positive working relationships intra- and inter-organizationally and create and promote positive public relations for MSU Extension and the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute. Communicate and interact with community groups to evaluate the needs of the clientele. In concert with the MSU Extension work team(s), work with federal, state and county agencies to complete needs assessment of the community and develop effective programming. Serve as an information resource to clientele, partners, and Extension staff. Understand and support the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute’s efforts in diversity, equity, inclusion and Civil Rights, with a special emphasis on removing barriers from participation and reaching diverse populations, including but not limited to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status, socio-economic class and other human differences. Develop and utilize appropriate media methods to communicate current and timely information, research results, and relevant industry updates, as well as a schedule of current and future activities in collaboration with local and statewide Fruit Team colleagues. Collaborate with MSU Extension staff to gather and report programming outputs and impacts, to demonstrate program effectiveness and to guide future program priorities for MSU Extension, the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute and work teams. Actively participate in professional development opportunities. Author, produce and submit regular research-based educational materials and articles. Other duties or projects as assigned by the Institute Director.
Qualifications
Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a field of study related to horticulture, entomology, plant pathology, or crop science with a knowledge of integrated pest management principles or related field must be earned by date of hire. Familiarity with commercial tree fruit production. Demonstrated ability and skill in educational program planning, implementation, and evaluation. 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. Demonstrated success in program development and delivery to diverse audiences/communities, and proven ability in establishing and working with a diverse network of constituents and community members across race, color, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, and other differences. Experience and proven ability working productively with a team serving in both leadership and contributor roles. Self-motivated with demonstrated ability to work independently in an office environment without daily supervision and/or coaching. Ability to create and carry out a project plan from research of initial concept to project completion and follow-up. Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail/calendaring, distance technology, etc.) for day-to-day work and educational program delivery, record keeping, reporting, team-based communications, and overall management. Ability to travel in local and surrounding communities and occasional long-distance travel are required as a regular part of this position. Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs. Transportation is the responsibility of the employee. Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards. Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position.
Preferred Level of Education
Master's degree
Compensation/Salary
Salary Commensurate with Experience
How to Apply
Apply through the MSU careers page, https://careers.msu.edu/ and search for posting 1017305 using the Job Search field. Application deadline is February 24, 2025.
Application deadline: February 24, 2025
Equal Employment Opportunity
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension employment opportunities are open to eligible/qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations. The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.