Extension Support Specialist II - Underserved Forest Owner Specialist

Cornell University

114d • $72,209 - $77,625

About The Position

The Extension Support Specialist II will work with Cornell University’s CALS and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to develop and implement a strategy aimed at increasing awareness and adoption of forest management practices among underserved forest landowners. This role involves reconstituting New York’s Forest Stewardship Coordinating Committee, coordinating outreach efforts, and ensuring that the needs of underserved communities are met through effective communication and collaboration. The position requires occasional travel throughout New York and attendance at evening and weekend meetings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, forestry, conservation social science, or a related field.
• Two to four years of experience in natural resources social science, forestry education, or extension activities.
• Demonstrated history administering surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
• Outstanding interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Familiarity with Cooperative Extension and private lands forestry.
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office and remote work platforms.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new technology.
• Critical thinking skills and ability to work on multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid and unrestricted NYS driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in natural resources, forestry, social science, or related field.
• Knowledge of NY forest owners and forest management assistance programs.
• Experience working with New York’s forest owners and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of climate-resilient forestry practices.
• Experience with group facilitation and community engagement.
• Creativity in designing outreach materials.
• Experience with community science projects and managing volunteer data sets.

Responsibilities

• Reconstitute New York’s Forest Stewardship Coordinating Committee (NYSFSCC) and coordinate Committee meetings.
• Update DEC’s Forest Action Plan with guidance from the Committee.
• Work collaboratively with NYS DEC to revise the plan to support underserved forestland owners.
• Assist in planning and delivering an outreach plan for connections with underserved forest owners.
• Identify communities of underserved forest owners across the state through focused outreach.
• Hold regional meetings to engage with the forestry community and understand their needs.
• Research and formulate outreach strategies for underserved forest owners.
• Implement outreach strategies outlined in the plan state-wide.
• Analyze, evaluate, and make recommendations for project implementation.
• Maintain connections with stakeholders and keep detailed records of project activities.
• Support the creation of extension materials for underserved forest owners.
• Develop accessible outreach materials consistent with the updated Forest Action Plan.

Benefits

• Hybrid work arrangement (2 days remote, 3 days on-campus).
• 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, and 13 holidays.
• Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program.
• Tuition aid for external education.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree