UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION/SEA GRANT EXTENSION PROGRAM
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Title: Agent Associate
Functional Title: Agent Associate (Maryland Sea Grant Coastal Climate Specialist)
Position Number: 113399
Category Status: Faculty, Non-Tenured, Continuing Contract (This is a Non-State Funded Position)
Unit: AGNR-UME-Maryland Sea Grant Extension
Home Office Location: University of Maryland Campus (College Park)
Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The coastal community specialist will develop, lead and participate in extension programming related to community responses to climate change risks and to planning and development of sustainable coastal communities in Maryland. Maryland Sea Grant plays an important role in Maryland to assist with the development of science-based decision making. This position will strengthen the ability for Marylanders to understand and improve their resilience to natural hazards and respond to changing conditions. Programming should emphasize stakeholder education and problem-solving assistance to community decision-makers and planners leading to measurable benefits. The specialist will collaborate and coordinate programming with other extension and research faculty in the University System of Maryland. Further, the specialist will develop partnerships with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Chesapeake and Coastal Service and other appropriate state and federal agencies serving coastal communities.
Position Objectives:
To inform communities and increase their knowledge and understanding of climate change, expected effects of these changes, solutions, and mitigation, conservation, and adaptation options, to increase coastal community sustainability and resilience.
Responsibilites:
- Conduct periodic needs assessments among various stakeholder groups to determine program priorities.
- Develop, conduct and evaluate Extension programming for climate-related issues in Maryland and the region and develop a plan for engagement in these issues.
- Work with Maryland and regional partners to design and conduct interdisciplinary applied coastal climate research and extension projects.
- Participate in the development of grant proposals, and other funding opportunities, to secure resources for applied climate and sustainability research and extension projects.
- Assist communities in identifying, planning, and implementing climate mitigation and
adaptation strategies to increase resilience, take advantage of new opportunities, and avoid impacts to infrastructure, ecosystems, and economies. - Foster a network of professionals with interest and expertise to contribute toward climate adaptation and mitigation planning.
- Work closely with the existing Sea Grant coastal community network and explore existing programming approaches applicable to Maryland issues.
- Evaluate programs to assess outcomes and impacts: knowledge gain or skills learned in the short term, practices improved, intent to change, and economic, environmental and social changes over time; use information to demonstrate program impacts to relevant agencies and appropriate reporting.
Qualifications:
Required–
- Master’s degree in climate, coastal or marine science, community planning, ecology, geography, or related environmental science field.
- At least two years of experience in education or outreach in related field.
- Demonstrated leadership and management abilities with evidence of being able to work well with diverse clientele.
- Capacity to work independently in a dynamic and rapidly changing field.
- Familiarity with coastal environments, climate impacts, and mitigation/adaptation practices.
- Evidence of excellent teaching & oral and written communication skills.
- Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming, data analysis, survey collection, and management.
- Personal transportation and valid driver’s license. Must be willing to travel within the state.
- Flexible work schedule required for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and needs.
- This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.
Salary & Benefits:
Annual base salary of $52,000. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.
Application Process:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu A complete application packet includes a cover letter, resume or CV, unofficial academic transcripts, and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
Closing date: Open until filled. For best consideration please apply by April 30, 2017.
The University of Maryland, College Park, actively subscribes to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, genetic information, political affiliation, and gender identity or expression. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.