Assistant University Extension Educator - Agriculture and Natural Resources

JOB TITLE:  

Assistant University Extension Educator, Agriculture and Natural Resources serving Sheridan County, Wyoming

JOB PURPOSE:   

Are you seeking a career that will allow you to positively impact Wyoming communities and people? Do you value public service and seek an outlet that allows you to serve the public through educational programs you create? Are you committed to lifelong learning and find value in sharing that with others? Then please consider applying for this open position!

This position is based in Sheridan, Wyoming, the county seat for Sheridan County. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

We seek an educator with expertise in horticulture (or arboriculture) and small acreage management (e.g., ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers; vegetable gardening/production; weeds, pests, pesticide applicator safety, water management). Secondary expertise would be helpful in agriculture and natural resource topics of relevance to Sheridan County (e.g., forage crops, grazing, invasive plants, wildfire preparedness and recovery). Expertise is not expected in all of these topics, but the educator must be willing to learn and provide outreach about topics outside their primary area of expertise to help address Sheridan County’s dynamic needs. The educator in this position will also have a unique opportunity to collaborate with the Sheridan Research and Extension Center on applied research and outreach regarding many of the above topics.

The mission of University of Wyoming Extension (UWE) is to empower the people of Wyoming to make choices that enhance their quality of life. By actively involving Wyoming people, institutions, and communities, UWE shows a commitment to people, connectivity, relevance, accountability, innovation, entrepreneurship, and respect. With this in mind, UWE will be responsive to the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the people of Wyoming as we provide learning for better living.

UWE Educators are part of the University’s educational outreach system. In keeping with the University’s status as a land-grant institution, Extension Educators form an essential link between the people of Wyoming and the teaching, research, and service missions of the University by providing non-credit education to an off-campus clientele. Extension Educators provide Wyoming youth, adults, and communities with life-long learning opportunities, especially through the application of research-supported information and leadership skills in the areas of agriculture and natural resources (ANR).

Approximate Time Distribution

Educational programming in ANR - 85% 

Support of 4-H Youth Development - 15%

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Master’s degree in a field relevant to the position from an accredited college or university. Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews, but degree must be completed by hire date. 
• One degree (Master’s or Bachelor’s) must be awarded in horticulture, arboriculture, plant science, soil science, agriculture science, rangeland management, agricultural economics, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Reliable transportation and Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP. 
• Ability to participate in some overnight travel, evening, and weekend work.

   DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:   

• Training or professional experience in at least one of the following topics: horticulture, arboriculture, small acreage management, forage crops, grazing management, invasive plants, wildfire preparedness and recovery, or other topics relevant to clientele needs in Sheridan County. 
• Experience using diverse approaches to develop and deliver science-based outreach to meet community needs related to horticulture, agriculture, or natural resources.
• Experience developing partnerships with external organizations or government agencies.
• Experience fostering positive relationships with clientele in a community served.
• Excellence in ability to communicate orally, in writing, and interpersonally. Evidence documented through application materials and experience. 
• Experience or training in teaching youth and adult audiences.
• Experience conducting needs assessments and program impact evaluations.
• Demonstrated knowledge/appreciation of agricultural communities and a commitment to travel and work in rural/remote areas of Wyoming. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of Extension and the land-grant university system. 
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively in and contribute positively to teamwork.
• Experience in planning and implementing applied research activities.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS:  

• Completed UW application.
• A detailed letter of intent that specifically addresses your training and experience relative to the minimum and desired qualifications of the position.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Copies of all college transcripts; official transcripts required at time of hiring.
• Contact information for four (4) references who can address your professional qualifications.

WORK LOCATION:

This position provides vital support to UW Extension clientele and requires the successful candidate to be available to work in person at the Sheridan County Extension Office in Sheridan, Wyoming. 

 WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS: 

Contact for application-process inquiries

Ann Roberson, Business Manager

University of Wyoming Extension

1000 E. University Ave., Dept. 3354

Laramie, WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-3566

E-mail: [email protected] 

Contact for position-specific information

Dannele Peck, Associate Director

University of Wyoming Extension

Phone: (307) 766-5124

Email: [email protected]

HIRING STATEMENT/EEO:   

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at 307-766-2377 or email [email protected].  

ABOUT SHERIDAN COUNTY

Nestled at the base of the Big Horn Mountains, Sheridan County offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty and is home to approximately 33,487 residents. The county seat, the city of Sheridan, has a population of about 20,000 and offers modern hospitality with old west charm. Other incorporated towns include Dayton, Ranchester, and Clearmont, along with the unincorporated communities of Story and Big Horn. The county’s economy is diverse, with major industries including education, health care, and social services, as well as agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting, coal mining, oil and gas exploration, and a growing tourism industry. The UW Sheridan Research and Extension Center, as well as Sheridan College, further strengthen the community, serving as research, education, and cultural resources for the region. With breathtaking scenery, rich history, and a strong sense of community, Sheridan County is truly Wyoming at its best. More information is available at https://www.sheridanwyoming.org/. 

Posted Salary Range: 55,000 - 65,000