Extension Specialist, Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy (Environmental Quality)

University of Illinois • Urbana, IL

392d • $73,000 - $90,000 • Remote

About The Position

The Extension Specialist for Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy (Environmental Quality) at the University of Illinois Extension is a full-time academic professional responsible for addressing environmental quality issues such as air pollution, land contamination, waste management, and sustainability. This role involves developing outreach programs, collaborating with faculty, and disseminating research-based information to Extension Educators and stakeholders across Illinois. The position is designed to enhance community engagement and improve environmental quality through educational initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in environmental science, natural resources, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in program planning and delivering community-based educational programs.
• Experience working with diverse audiences and informal/formal teaching experience.
• Skills in synchronous and asynchronous distance educational delivery.

Nice To Haves

• PhD in a related field.
• Experience with the land-grant University Extension system.
• Experience in environmental outreach programming.

Responsibilities

• Assess community and stakeholder needs to ensure effective resource allocation and program implementation.
• Develop innovative programming and instructional materials addressing environmental quality issues.
• Collaborate with Extension faculty to translate research into outreach programming.
• Provide opportunities for integrating campus-based research into Extension activities.
• Identify and communicate new practices in community-based programming and train statewide staff and stakeholders.
• Initiate educational delivery systems, including digital formats, within relevant subject areas.
• Evaluate the effectiveness and impact of educational programs and share results across Extension units.
• Lead and implement key statewide environmental outreach projects.
• Maintain relationships with key leaders and stakeholders in environmental programming.
• Allocate resources for projects and oversee grant deliverables.
• Seek funding to support environmental programming initiatives.
• Provide training and technical assistance for statewide staff on programmatic needs.
• Participate in state and national task forces and working groups.
• Contribute to the vision of NREE programming and environmental research.

Benefits

• Generous vacation and sick leave.
• State Universities Retirement System.
• Group health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree