Outreach Assistant (Educational Program Assistant 2) – Vegetable and Hemp Extension Program
Employer: University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension
Work Location: Vernon, CT
Term of Employment: Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.
Compensation Range: $48,000-$55,000
Duties / Responsibilities
Perform scouting and reporting of six or more farms on a weekly basis from April through September. This will include traveling to each farm, installing, and checking pheromone traps at the farms. It also includes collecting soil samples, bringing samples to the soil lab for analysis, and compiling the data for Extension publications such as Weekly Pest Alerts and factsheets.
Consult with additional farmers to respond to their needs regarding identifying crop issues and sharing educational resources.
Participate in weekly pest alert meetings (normally 1.5 hours on Wednesday mornings from April to September every year) consisting of vegetable specialists from multiple New England states reporting their findings and using that information in our weekly pest alerts.
Assist in planning and implementing educational programs for Connecticut vegetable and hemp growers, such as conferences, workshops, and twilight meetings.
Lead layout and design of Crop Talk, a quarterly newsletter for vegetable and fruit growers in Connecticut.
Assist in writing new factsheets, updating existing ones, and writing newsletter articles on vegetable IPM-related topics.
Use web pages, electronic communications, multimedia technologies, social media, and other emerging technologies to disseminate information to growers and stakeholders.
Assist in the design and implementation of program evaluation protocols to measure the performance of Extension outreach programs, including collecting feedback from diverse stakeholder groups to inform the development of future programs.
Practice diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace culture that values and respects individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Perform related duties as required.
Desired Applicant Experience
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree and 2 to 3 years of experience in plant science or agriculture, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Demonstrated knowledge or experience with integrated pest management (IPM) principles, including the use of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods to manage pests in a safe, effective, and environmentally responsible manner.
Demonstrated experience using a variety of social media platforms to engage with audiences.
Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
Commitment to working with diverse audiences and practicing principles of DEI to ensure that all individuals feel valued, respected, and included.
Commitment to work occasional weekends and evenings as needed.
Maintain reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.
Able to work outdoors for extended periods in adverse weather conditions.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Demonstrated experience conducting outreach activities, including developing and delivering educational programs and materials, and preparing extension publications and reports.
Demonstrated experience designing and implementing program evaluation protocols to measure the performance of outreach programs, including collecting and analyzing data from diverse stakeholder groups.
Ability to organize and facilitate meetings with small and large groups.
Demonstrated work ethic and ability to self-direct while working collaboratively.
Bilingual in Spanish, preferred.