Extension Educator, Urban Agriculture/4-H Youth Dev.

Who we are: Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service (OCES) Extension Educators are the “front door” to the University, providing a link between OSU and the people of the state in all 77 Oklahoma counties. The OCES represents a federal, state, and county partnership working since 1914. The mission of OCES is to disseminate information to the people of Oklahoma and encourage the adoption of research-generated knowledge.

Extension Educators provide research-based information to clientele in the areas of agriculture, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and community and rural development. Explore a career with the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service.

Make a difference in the lives of Oklahomans! Learn more about Extension: https://extension.okstate.edu/extension-careers.html and more about OSU Agriculture:
https://agdivision.okstate.edu/. Who are we?: https://youtu.be/VULZ1uq4x70

Position Details: This position is located in the Tulsa County Extension Office, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Position provides leadership to agricultural programs focusing on urban and 4-H youth development programs in a dual assignment with approximately 90% of time spent in agriculture and 10% of time spent in 4-H youth development work.

Extension Educators provide the link between Land Grant University research and the citizens of Oklahoma by creating innovative learning opportunities that address local issues. Dedicated to helping improve the quality of life for current and future residents, Extension Educators collaborate with local, county and state agencies, partner organizations, businesses and schools to analyze needs, develop, implement and oversee vibrant and sustainable research based educational programs, and provide resources and expertise to the local community. As the agricultural industry responds to the growing demands for food, fiber and fuel, Extension outreach is becoming more dynamic as it incorporates agricultural strategies into economic development plans and programs. The Extension Educator, Urban Agriculture focus builds partnerships and strengthens linkages with county and regional agencies, agricultural organizations, decision makers, homeowners, and residents interested in the science of urban agriculture. The Urban Agriculture focused Educator serves as a key resource in local food systems and sustainability related efforts in Tulsa County, and has responsibility for developing and implementing contemporary, comprehensive programming, which may include small farm production and management, integrated pest management, environmental stewardship and urban ecology, local food systems, farmer’s markets, food and agriculture literacy, and water conservation and quality. Participates as a cohesive team member to involve local clientele and advisory groups to plan, implement, and evaluate the total Cooperative Extension county program. Extension educators comply with all applicable laws, regulations, guidelines, etc., related to equal opportunity, civil rights, and affirmative action.

Extension educators are hired into the organization not into a specific geographic location. It is possible that future circumstances may require relocation.

Base annual salary for entry level educators who have a bachelor’s degree is $37,000; a master’s degree is $41,000. Starting salary is based upon education and prior relevant work experience.
Extension educators hired with only a bachelor’s degree are encouraged to work toward completion of an approved master’s degree.

There are lots of great reasons to work at OSU, check out our benefits and eligibility at https://hr.okstate.edu/prospective-ee.html

Continuation of employment is based upon need, performance and available county funding.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should submit: 1) a 1-2 page cover letter summarizing their experience and expertise related to the position’s goals and required qualifications, 2) resume, 3) contact information for three references, and 4) copy of college transcript showing degree deferral.

Education & Experience

Position Qualifications:

Required: Bachelor's in Agriculture

No experience required. Starting salary is based upon education and prior relevant work experience.

• Demonstrated ability to adapt well to changing priorities, situations and day-to-day demands.
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to effectively manage time and resources.
• Must possess strong writing, communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to continue personal professional development.
• Evidence of ability to build and maintain relationships and work effectively with clientele, advisory groups, volunteer leaders and other professionals, etc.
• Demonstrated competency and effective use of computing and computer-based communications technology.
• Demonstrated leadership ability in designing, promoting, presenting and evaluating educational programs and the desire to program to reach diverse audiences.

Preferred: Master's in Agriculture

Previous experience in Cooperative Extension or closely related work is desirable.

Oklahoma State University (OSU) strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, OSU conducts pre-employment background checks on final candidates. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal (felony and misdemeanor) history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the university, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit eeo.okstate.edu.