The Ag & Natural Resources (ANR) Program Coordinator for Jackson County will work with a team of staff and volunteers to plan and implement ANR education throughout the county. They will manage research-based ANR programming and be responsible for outreach regarding ag issues in Jackson County.
Programs
- Explore opportunities for programming in areas such as, but not limited to: Women in Ag, Small Farm Sustainability, Beef, the Master Conservationist Program, and partnering with schools on youth ag education areas.
- Work with ANR specialists in the coordination of Livestock, Crops, Conservation, Soil Management and Farm Management Programming.
- Maintain knowledge of ISU Extension and Outreach educational programs and resources.
- Collaborate with Extension staff and with other agencies to plan and deliver programs.
- Explore areas of ANR programming that can benefit underserved populations in Jackson County.
- Collect, analyze, and share county data to ensure program effectiveness and communicate impact
- Seeks out, writes, and manages grant funds and corresponding programs when applicable.
- Promote county events and activities working with local partners and media.
- Work with Jackson County Master Gardener Board, volunteer committees, and County Director to carry out county-sponsored activities, events, communications, and social media.
- Organize the annual Master Gardener training classes by planning Master Gardener intern learning opportunities throughout the year.
- Assist in finding opportunities for continuing education for volunteers.
- Authorize volunteer and education hours on the Iowa Master Gardener reporting database.
- Coordinate requests from community for Master Gardeners to speak/present about horticulture related subject matter.
Public Relations
- Ensure that all Jackson County Extension ANR program materials are in accordance with the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Visual Identity Guide.
- Represent Iowa State University, ISU Extension and Outreach, and the Jackson County Agricultural Extension District positively and professionally.
- Working with the County Director, develop and execute a communication strategy to engage volunteers and participants which may include emails, newsletters, social media posts, events, and/or face-to-face contacts.
Organizational Support
- Work with County Extension Director to ensure adequate financial resources are secured.
- Attend regional and state professional development meetings to stay current with programs, services, and technology updates.
- Maintain knowledge of ISU Extension and Outreach ANR educational programs and resources.
- Ensure that all external funds (donations, grants, contracts) are secured with proper authorization.
- Communicate effectively and build relationships with other extension staff, County Extension Council, and community partners.
- Other duties as assigned by County Extension Director.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of education, training and experience in Agriculture & Natural Resources
- Evidence or knowledge of volunteer management.
- Experience organizing events and activities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Programs, web design/editing, and social media platforms.
- Successful completion of a background check within the ISU Extension and Outreach policy.
- Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
Preferred Job Skills
- Passion to work with volunteers.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work with persons from various backgrounds and cultures.
- Ability to work flexible hours. The successful candidate will be expected to successfully manage their schedule including some evening and weekend meetings.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to multi-task, solve problems, and prioritize.
- Self-motivated and ability to initiate work without direct supervision.
- People-oriented and skilled in customer relations.
- Dependable team player, punctual, and detail-oriented.
- Appearance, attitude, and conduct conducive to a professional work environment.
- Ability to lift 25 pounds including files, books, stacking chairs, moving tables, etc.
Work Hours: Part-time (20 hours per week), hourly, regular position. General work week falls between 8:00am - 4:30pm. Monday-Thursday and 8:00am - 3:00pm Friday; however, regular evening meetings, occasional weekend events, and out of town trips will occur as scheduled.
Classification & Benefits: Regular Part-Time, Non-Exempt Employee. Employed by the Jackson County Agricultural Extension District. Vacations and sick leave, FICA, IPERS, mileage reimbursement, and professional development.
Supervisor: Amber Matthiesen, County Director.
Application Procedure: E-mail completed applications along with a resume and cover letter to Amber Matthiesen, amber@iastate.edu. Applications deadline: March 1, 2023 or until filled.