POSITION TITLE: Extension Associate
WORKING TITLE: Area
Fruit Specialist – Tree Fruit and
TITLE OF IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:
DEPARTMENT: Cornell Cooperative Extension Administration
LOCATION: Program
area is the Lake Ontario Region including
I. Summary Statement of Purpose and
Responsibilities
Provide commercial fruit
growers/producers with the knowledge of cutting-edge technology in
horticultural practices to enhance profitability and sustain the growth of the
fruit industry in
II. Specific Job
Functions and Responsibilities
Program Development and Implementation 60%
As part of a four-specialist team, provide leadership for planning, implementing and evaluating educational programs that address producer identified needs and opportunities. Emphasis for this position is on production practices that impact on yields, fruit quality, and production efficiency, including, but not limited to planting systems, rootstock/variety and planting density choices, pruning and tree training, nutritional requirements of tree fruit and berries, crop load and canopy management for yield, quality, and profitability and groundcover and soil management.
Identify and demonstrate new production technology and management alternatives for producers and industry to help them analyze the potential for profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices, new varieties, consumer market demands, etc.
Plan and implement educational programs utilizing a variety of methods including direct teaching through group experiences, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, use of the internet and distance learning.
One-on-one consultations with key producers and industry partners related to program development and problem solving.
Applied Research 20%
In collaboration with faculty in
subject area, initiate and conduct field demonstrations and in-depth applied
research projects appropriate to the needs of commercial tree fruit and berry
production in western
Participate in statewide, collaborative research projects with university and extension faculty and staff as well as other agencies and organizations.
Program Management 05%
Responsible for day-to-day program operations and fiscal accountability
Individually and collaboratively explore and pursue new and additional funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities
Professional Improvement 05%
Participate in professional development opportunities appropriate to program and personal skill enhancement
Participate in related professional organizations
Program Evaluation 10%
Define and implement reporting mechanisms for producer-focused “measurable” outcomes.
Analyze and evaluate major program efforts with the input of all program partners and make recommendations for enhancing these efforts.
Communicate evaluation results, findings, and recommendations as appropriate.
Prepare quarterly reports and yearly impact statements on program progress and accomplishments.
Meet the evaluation and reporting requirements of all funding partners.
III. Supervision
Administrative direction and guidance provided by the program team Leader and the Regional Agriculture Program Coordinator (CCE Administration).
Program development guidance and support provided by team leader and faculty leader.
Academic oversight and guidance provided by designated faculty in the Department of Horticulture Sciences
Program oversight and direction provided by program advisory groups comprised of Executive Directors of partner Extension Associations, producers and industry partners.
Provides supervision and guidance as required to administrative and technical support staff
IV. Administrative
and Program Relationships
Internal
Work as a member of a four-person team
Work as a member of existing regional, multi-county and statewide teams and work groups
Work closely with faculty and
administration at Cornell,
Become recognized and visible with staff of partner County Extension Associations
External
Build and maintain effective relationships with producers and growers
Develop and maintain effective communication and working relationships with appropriate agribusiness, industry partners, other educational institutions and governmental agencies and organizations.
V. Key Knowledge,
Skills, and Abilities Desired to Perform the Work of this Position
· Demonstrated experience in program development, planning and implementation
· Ability to define, conduct and interpret applied research and demonstration projects
· Successful experience obtaining new funding including grants and industry support
· Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work with diverse audiences in group and one-on-one settings; working effectively with advisory boards and committees, community and funding partners
· Confidence to gain support of cooperators and collaborators in research projects and programs
· Proven planning, organization and time-management skills
· Strong leadership and teamwork skills
· Effective written, verbal, and electronic communication skills
· Fundamental competence utilizing current technology as a management and program delivery tool (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, Internet and Web development)
· Appreciation of Agriculture as a business and as a lifestyle
· Creativity, energy, motivation and positive enthusiasm.
· Ability to meet the travel requirements of the position
· Ability to meet physical requirements associated with field research
· Ability to obtain a New York State Certified Pesticide Applicators License
· Ability to work evenings and weekends as essential job functions require
VI. Minimum Education
Required
Masters Degree in Horticulture, Agri-business, or closely related field
Desired
Coursework in horticulture, pomology, plant physiology, soils, education, and communications
VII. Minimum
Experience
Required
Two years relevant work experience in Cooperative Extension, agri-business, crop production, adult education or closely related field
Desired
Five years relevant work experience
Knowledge and experience in current and emerging fruit crop production practices
HOW TO APPLY: Send letter of intent, resume, and
transcripts to Area Fruit Specialist search committee,
"APPLICATIONS will be reviewed upon receipt with formal selection beginning 05/15/08, and until an acceptable pool of applicants has been identified.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: