Program Associate - Cotton Verification Coordinator

University of Arkansas System • Newport, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The position serves as the Coordinator for the Arkansas Cotton Research Verification Program. The Verification Program is an integrated Extension education program for transferring research technology to the farm. The Verification Program is a collaborative Extension program involving cotton growers, county Extension agents, and the coordinator. The program is under the direction of an advisory committee consisting of Extension faculty and researchers with cotton responsibility.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in agriculture or related area with three (3) years of relevant professional experience, OR a related Master's degree is required.
• Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, data management, & email programs.
• A high level of technical competence in the area of responsibility.
• Ability to develop & deliver quality presentations.
• Ability to exercise initiative, make sound judgments, & work without close supervision.
• Ability to relate & respond to the needs of supervisors, subordinates, & clientele.
• Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

Nice To Haves

• A Master's degree in crop science, soil science, pest management, or a closely related field is preferred.
• Extension experience and/or experience establishing and evaluating demonstrations is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plans and conducts the Cotton Verification Programs as outlined by the programs goals and objectives in cooperation with county extension agents, producers, faculty and Cotton Incorporated.
• Incorporates interdisciplinary planning between soybean, rice, corn and grain sorghum verification program coordinators.
• Meets with an advisory committee for planning future projects to be entered into the program.
• Provides training of county agents, consultants, and producers in the implementation of Best Management Practices in the areas of weed and insect management as well as irrigation efficiency while updating and training in the areas of precision agriculture and new technologies.
• Coordinates and conducts on-farm field trials to verify the utility of research based recommendations with the intent of optimizing potential for profits, aiding researchers in identifying areas of production that require further study, improving or refining existing recommendations which will contribute to more profitable production, and increasing county agents expertise in crops.
• Uses program participants, advisory committee members and other interested parties to evaluate the program. Evaluation conducted by use of the advisory committee meetings, one on one interviews, producer surveys, program data and state agricultural statistic data.
• Assists in securing and managing funds and report findings.
• Reports these findings to the advisory committee, Cotton Incorporated State Funding Committee, and other interested persons.
• Assists with developing Extension publications, educational materials, print media, and teaching aids.
• Uses the website and weekly newsletters to provide weekly updates of crop condition, and current IPM practices.
• Collaborates with other verification coordinators to carry out other assigned duties.

Benefits

• The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees