Friday, June 2, 2017

Extension Agent Position

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EXTENSION

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Title: Agent
Functional Title: Energy Conservation and Technology Specialist
Position Number: 103608
Category Status: Faculty, Non-Tenured, On Track
Unit: AGNR-UME-West Region

Location: Western Maryland Research & Education Center, Keedysville, Maryland

Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The Energy Conservation and Technology Specialist is responsible for planning, organizing, developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs for Maryland communities and citizens.  Specifically, this position will provide leadership and delivery of educational programming related to energy conservation and clean energy technology including solar, wind, biomass, natural gas and other applications. The Specialist will facilitate partnerships with university colleagues, local and state agencies, elected officials, communities, landowners, industry and environmental groups in developing sustainable energy practices and opportunities while protecting, as well as advocating for a science-based and responsible approach to handling the state’s water, forest and other natural resources.

The Specialist is expected to be a part of the AGNR and UME faculty team as well as provide leadership for the energy related programming within the Environment and Natural Resource Focus Area, one of four UME strategic programming initiatives.  It is the responsibility of the Specialist to work intentionally and collaboratively to increase the visibility and reach of Extension programs through education designed to meet the needs of diverse audiences.  The Specialist will interpret and disseminate the latest research findings using a variety of delivery and communication strategies appropriate for the intended target audience, including but not limited to workshops, classes, demonstration projects, webcasts, social media, publications, mass media and community coalitions. The faculty member will be on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with University policy and UME tenure guidelines within a timeframe defined.

Qualifications:  
Required
  • Master’s degree with three to five years of related experience.
  • Background in area of natural resources, agriculture and energy conservation and technology.
  • Demonstrated leadership and management abilities with evidence of being able to work well with volunteers and diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management is required.
  • Personal transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be willing to travel within the assigned counties and state.  
  • Flexible work schedule required for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and needs.
  • Evidence of excellent teaching & communication skills.
  • This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.
Preferred
  • Ph.D. preferred with two years of experience.
  • Extension or similar work experience preferred (e.g., work with community economic development, energy technologies and business education).  
  • Experience working with volunteers desirable.
  • Preference will be given to individuals with experience working with diverse audiences and all socioeconomic levels.

Physical Demands of the Position:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Nature of the Position: This position frequently presents information through vocal and written communication to individuals of various ages, socio-economic, and educational backgrounds. The ability to express or exchange ideas vocally is important, as well as the ability to hear and perceive information at normal spoken work levels.
  • Physical Demands: A routine part of this position's responsibilities would be to transport materials to and from teaching/event locations, including loading and unloading the vehicle. The employee will frequently lift and/or move items weighing up to 20 pounds. Set-up and tear-down of displays, tables, and chairs would be necessary at many teaching sites.
  • Environmental: Team driven, office environment of professional character, competence, and collaboration. Deadline driven in terms of program planning and reporting. This position requires the employee to work outdoors at for programs and events. This may occur during very hot and/or inclement weather.
  • Visual Acuity:  Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data and presentations.

Salary & Benefits:
Salary will be commensurate with experience: Master’s Base: $51,575; Ph.D. Base: $61,650. The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package.

Applications:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu. A complete application packet includes a cover letter, resume or CV, copies of transcripts, and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Closing Date: For best consideration, complete application by July 1, 2017.  Position will remain open until suitable candidate has been identified.



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.