Extension Field Specialist, STEM School Enrichment for Educators & Youth

University of New Hampshire•University of New Hampshire - Main Campus, NH

3d•$52,590 - $82,920•Onsite

About The Position

The Extension Field Specialist will lead development of a comprehensive 4-H STEM literacy pathway integrating agricultural science, food systems, environmental and natural resources, engineering, technology, computer science, and emerging STEM fields. The specialist will identify needs and priorities, then develop, market, implement, and evaluate school enrichment and educator professional learning opportunities in formal and non-formal settings. The pathway will provide learning experiences throughout the 4-H program year and connect youth and educators to STEM-related industries, higher education pathways, workforce development, and real-world applications relevant to New Hampshire communities. The specialist will also provide oversight and strategic direction for New Hampshire Agriculture in the Classroom. As part of the Youth and Educators in Science Area of Expertise team, the specialist will collaborate with other Extension areas and program teams, university faculty and staff, and community and industry partners. This work will strengthen statewide STEM education capacity, support educator professional development, expand school enrichment, and create pathways from STEM exploration to UNH opportunities and career readiness. As a member of the Hillsborough County 4-H team, the specialist will support county-wide programming and may serve as county office administrator when needed. Occasional evening and weekend work and frequent local and statewide travel are required. Mileage is reimbursed at the federal rate. Continued employment is contingent on the availability of external sponsor funding.

Requirements

Master’s degree or higher in an appropriate discipline and at least two years of related experience.
A strong candidate with a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate discipline and at least three years of relevant experience may be considered if willing to obtain a master’s degree within seven years of hire.
High subject-matter competence in sustainable agriculture and food systems, environmental science, natural resources, youth development, and community development.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with coworkers and clients of varied values and interests, ages, races, ethnic backgrounds, income levels, and education levels.
Availability to work some nights and weekends.
Willingness and ability to travel frequently, locally and statewide.
Applicants must submit a resume/CV and cover letter.

Nice To Haves

Ability to work with minimum supervision, manage multiple demands, and set priorities.
Experience or familiarity with Extension programs.
Demonstrated competency in developing and delivering educational programs.
Knowledge across agricultural science areas, including natural resources, plant science, and soil science, and ability to identify potential industry and community partners for pathway development.
Experience as a formal K–12 classroom educator, including training educators and volunteers to support classroom learning.
Experience conducting needs assessments and evaluations.

Responsibilities

Develop and support educator capacity-building experiences across STEM disciplines, delivery modes, and age and grade levels.
Oversee the Granite State Green Community of Practice, helping members identify and develop STEM experiences and opportunities for educators.
Partner with community and industry organizations to expand youth internship and practicum opportunities in STEM education.
Support classroom volunteers in best practices in STEM education.
Develop school-based STEM experiences connecting New Hampshire communities with the UNH campus.
Develop 4-H STEM academic and career connections for youth, including leading the Granite State Green Teen Ambassador program.
Develop and coordinate state, regional, and national events and opportunities.
Ensure educational programming includes varied audiences and complies with civil rights, EEO, Affirmative Action, and ADA policies and procedures.
Build Agriculture in the Classroom partnerships with Extension and community organizations to expand resources and opportunities.
Collaborate with faculty and industry partners to create experiences connecting youth and educators with agricultural science career and academic pathways.
Identify and apply for external grants to support environmental science programming in formal and non-formal learning settings.
Serve as Hillsborough County Extension office administrator when designated, including maintaining relationships with county officials and managing facilities, equipment, office budgets, and administrative staff, interns, and other part-time or temporary employees.
Support a colleague serving as county office administrator and carry out delegated responsibilities.
Develop and implement a professional development plan to maintain and enhance relevant subject-matter and professional skills.
Perform other duties as assigned.