The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture is seeking applications and nominations for the position of Extension Specialist, Youth and Equine Programs (non-tenured) in the Animal Science Department. This is a salaried, statewide position, with preference for the position to be located in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Position Responsibilities:
- Provide leadership in planning, implementing, evaluating, and reporting the impact of livestock educational events and programs for youth clientele
- Effectively communicate with Animal Science Faculty, Extension personnel (on a State, Regional and County level), parents, youth, and other stakeholders with a vested interest in youth livestock programs
- Develop educational programs in cooperation with the State 4-H office to train and develop volunteer leaders for Animal Science projects
- Coordinate in-service training for Extension personnel in the area of youth Animal Science programs
- Develop and coordinate an educational program in show ethics and animal welfare for youth, parents, volunteer leaders, and other clientele
- Secure financial support for the youth livestock programs through cultivation and maintenance of cooperative relationships with organizations, individuals, and relevant industry stakeholders
- Develop new and enhance existing fee-based methods for generating financial support with the goal of youth livestock and equine programming becoming autonomously funded (with the exception of faculty line salaries)
- Execute other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Animal Science Department Head
Requirements to Apply:
- Master of Science degree in Animal Science or a closely related field
- Knowledge or experience in the field of youth development, or a willingness to learn
- Practical knowledge pertaining to animal agriculture
- Experience showing/exhibiting livestock and/or equine
- Experience in event planning and logistical coordination of large-scale events
- Must be highly motivated and self-directed, able to work both independently and collaboratively
- Must be able to meet overnight travel requirements for this position
- Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently through written and oral methods, and resolve conflict professionally
- A working knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Practical experience with the use of social media and web-based technologies as a teaching tool
Preferred Qualifications:
- Demonstrate ability to engage and inspire a wide variety of audiences through creative programming, curriculum development, and event planning
- Defined vision of a successful livestock and equine youth development program
- Highly developed interpersonal skills, affinity for networking, and demonstrated high level of confidence and poise when engaging an audience
- Proven ability to multi-task in a highly organized manner; excellent attention to detail
- Experience with strategic planning, budgets, and fund development for program success
Salary and Benefits:
- Salary is commensurate with training and experience
- Benefits include group hospitalization and life insurance; State Employees Retirement; Workers’ Compensation; study, sick and annual leave; numerous University of Tennessee and state benefit programs, including liberal time off for holidays.
Please apply online by clicking this link:
A complete application package will include:
- letter of interest
- resume or curriculum vitae
- official or unofficial transcripts showing degree(s) conferred
Dr. Jennie L. Ivey, Search Committee Chair
UTIA Department of Animal Science
2506 River Drive Knoxville, TN 37996
865-974-3157