State Specialist Small-Scale Poultry

Kentucky State University•Frankfort, KY

12d

About The Position

The State Specialist for Small-Scale Poultry is a key member of Kentucky State University’s Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) program team. This position will work to strengthen the poultry sector of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. In collaboration with research faculty and extension staff, the successful candidate will generate new and synthesize existing knowledge to develop educational resources, lead statewide initiatives, and evaluate programmatic activities. This position will work throughout Kentucky’s Cooperative Extension System and statewide partner network to enable the delivery of better services to Kentucky producers, educators, and communities. The State Specialist will empower Cooperative Extension staff to develop and implement effective programmatic curricula and activities. Additionally, they will pursue innovative, highly effective initiatives and training methodologies through a systems approach that enables small-scale producers to improve their productivity and profitability.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience with Cooperative Extension program administration and project management.
Knowledge of Cooperative Extension program development processes, evaluation, and reporting.
Extensive knowledge of poultry production operations, resources, initiatives, and stakeholders.
Knowledge of extension curriculum development.
Demonstrated experience with professional development training.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies across diverse communities.
Demonstrated initiative, resourcefulness, punctuality, and the ability to work independently.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Valid driver’s license.
Master’s degree in agriculture, education, or a related field with significant coursework in agriculture.
At least 3 years of experience implementing agricultural practices is required, with poultry experience preferred.
At least 3 years of experience developing Cooperative Extension programming is required.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with researchers and other technical experts to provide research-based technical information and support for county extension agents and staff.
Work cooperatively with other state-level Cooperative Extension program staff to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative, research-based extension activities across the Commonwealth.
Expand KSU’s statewide network of poultry producers and professional partners to improve collaboration opportunities and improve stakeholder access to resources.
Develop curricula and in-service training programs for Kentucky Cooperative Extension System staff.
Conduct applied research focused on small-scale poultry and related agriculture initiatives.
Manage reporting and impact monitoring of poultry extension program activities.
Identify, acquire, and manage extramural funding and partnerships to support programmatic activities.
Act as a thought leader by collaborating with allied agencies, professional organizations, businesses and other interested groups to find solutions to real-world problems as well as participate in conferences and professional development opportunities to remain current on the latest research-based innovations in the poultry sector.
Model and promote excellent customer service to all internal and external constituents.
Perform other duties as necessary.