CALS- Extension Support Specialist II- Business Management Specialist- Wayne County (Cornell Cooperative Extension)

Cornell University•New York, NY

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position serves as an Extension Support Specialist II, focusing on Business Management for commercial fruit growers and other industry clientele within the Lake Ontario Fruit Program (LOF) region. The LOF region is a significant contributor to New York State's apple production, with a growing and vibrant fruit industry. The specialist will provide leadership in planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs, emphasizing business management and maximizing profit opportunities based on best-management practices. The role involves conducting demonstrations and applied research, reporting on program progress, and communicating findings to stakeholders. Participation in professional development is also a key aspect of the role. This is a full-time, one-year appointment with the possibility of extension, located in the Rochester, New York area. The position requires a commitment to fostering a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment through effective communication and collaboration.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Business Management, or related fields and 3+ years of relevant work experience in Agribusiness, Horticultural Crop Production, Education, or closely related fields, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work with diverse audiences in group and one-on-one settings.
Ability to work effectively with industry, economic development groups, advisory boards and committees, community/ funding partners, and other stakeholders.
Fundamental competence utilizing current technology as a management and program delivery tool (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, Internet, and Web development).
Knowledge and experience in current and emerging issues and production practices of horticultural crops.
Ability to define, conduct, and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Strong leadership and teamwork skills.
Must be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
Able to work in a fast-paced environment and quickly adjust to changing priorities.
Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as essential job functions require.
Must exercise sound and ethical judgment when acting on behalf of the University.
Compliant with all Cornell University and job-related training requirements.
Demonstrated skill in understanding cultural differences.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (Master of Science or Master of Business Administration) in a closely related field.
Coursework in Horticultural Sciences, Marketing, Labor Management, Adult Education, and Communications.
Successful experience obtaining new funding, including grants and industry support.
Ability to become familiar with the Cornell Cooperative Extension system in support of the fruit industry.
Creativity, energy, motivation, and positive enthusiasm.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership in consultation with faculty and industry leaders for planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that address producer-identified needs and opportunities, emphasizing business management for commercial growers and other industry clientele.
Implement educational programs utilizing a variety of methods.
Provide producers and industry with a framework to analyze production and management alternatives and maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices.
Identify, initiate, and conduct demonstrations and in-depth applied research projects appropriate to the needs of the fruit industry in western New York.
Prepare quarterly reports, impact statements, and yearly success stories on program progress and accomplishments.
Communicate evaluation results, findings, and recommendations to program partners and funders.
Support team efforts in communication with industry stakeholders and partners.
Participate in professional development opportunities, conferences, and workshops such as the annual Agriculture and Food Systems In-Service, appropriate to program and personal skill enhancement.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options
Generous retirement contributions
Access to wellness programs
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
Health and personal leave
Three weeks of vacation
13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1.
Two additional floating holidays
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
Tuition aid for external education
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program