Extension Project Specialist

MSU Jobs • Starkville, MS

1d

About The Position

The Volunteer Development Specialist will provide leadership to MSU 4-H volunteer programs across the state.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Family and Consumer Science, Education or a related field.
• Experience: Three (3) years experience working in a youth development organization.
• Licensures: Must have a valid driver's license and be willing to travel locally, statewide, and nationally if necessary.
• Must pass a background check.
• Technological literacy including the ability to learn new software and technology as well as a working knowledge of databases, and social media.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organization and team-building skills.
• Ability to work irregular hours, evenings, and weekends with occasional overnight travel.

Nice To Haves

• A Masters or PhD or EdD or equivalent years' experience in volunteer management, communication, agricultural business, or a related field. Degrees in other disciplines will be considered for candidates with proven experience in volunteer management.
• Skills in providing web-based learning.
• Knowledge of the procurement of extramural funding and grant writing expertise.
• Experience working with youth development, especially 4-H.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, train, and supervise new volunteers.
• Collect volunteer information, background screening, and maintain an up-to-date database.
• Use tech tools such as associated software, e-mail, social media, and volunteer databases to enhance communication.
• Provide statewide leadership for volunteer education and recognition.
• Provide statewide leadership and professional development programming related to the recruitment of diverse volunteers and volunteers for under-served populations, volunteer development, and volunteer management.
• Keep new and existing volunteers informed about 4-H Youth Development and volunteer opportunities.
• Match volunteers to opportunities that suit their skill sets, and ensure they understand their responsibilities and receive the proper training.
• Organize training and lead on-the-job training.
• Keep schedules and records of volunteers' work.
• Prepare operating procedures to uphold the values of MSU-ES.
• Ensure the Mission and vision of MS 4-H is conveyed in volunteer recruitment.
• Collaborate with Center Head for Extension Center for 4-H Youth Development, Regional Extension Coordinators, Extension Specialists, and County agents to proactively address volunteerism issues.
• Promote 4-H Volunteer Programs through traditional and social media, fundraising events, and other statewide opportunities.
• Build networks linking MSU-ES 4-H Youth Development and broader volunteer organizations as well as corporate partnerships.
• Expand the reach and visibility of MSU-ES 4-H Programs through increasing the number and diversity of volunteers.
• Build capacity of existing Extension agents and program staff in the areas of volunteerism and volunteer management to improve their effectiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees