"Extension Educator-Family and Consumer Science-Northwest Region"

Job Summary

Current target counties in the Northwest Region includes the following: Sun-Area 1: Lucas; Sub-Area 2: Allen, Hardin, Marion, and Richland. Target counties may change as regional needs change.

The Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension Educator will be assigned to a region, the day-to-day workstation will be as a teleworker. The FCS Educator provides the link between CSU research and Ohio residents by creating innovative learning opportunities that address local issues. The FCS educator will collaborate with local, county and state agencies, partner organizations, businesses and schools and community stakeholders to analyze needs, develop, implement and oversee sustainable research based educational programs, and provide resources and expertise to the local community. A critical aspect of this position is to strengthen the inclusion of all stakeholders, with special efforts to reach those historically underserved by Extension. Given the demographic and economic diversity of communities and neighborhoods in the assigned region the Extension educator is expected to take a proactive role connecting to and engaging with diverse audiences and stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments to identify critically important issues and educational needs of clientele in the assigned region. This includes networking and collaborating with community organizations and other stakeholder groups, and reaching out to underserved populations.
• Develop effective and contemporary approaches to plan, deliver and evaluate programming.
• Conducts demonstrations, programs and meetings to educate adults and youth in new technology and practices related to family and consumer science issues to improve health and well-being for rural and urban families.
• Identify, interpret, and integrate information to develop and deliver high impact educational programs to adults and youth diverse audiences.
• Develop regular and effective communications and working relationships with colleagues, partners and stakeholders within the community
• Establish professional relationships with faculty on campus to enhance extension programming.
• Participate in and/or lead teams to enhance the scope and reach of Extension programming.
• Assist local, city and community organizations and businesses in the development and promotion of related activities and events.
• Represent CSU Extension with groups and organizations within assigned region.
• Work closely with local agencies within the region to address issues affecting families and individuals.
• Ensure that programs and activities are available to all interested persons in accordance with applicable equal opportunity/civil rights laws and best practices.
• Participate in civil rights and diversity training at the onset of employment, and periodic civil rights and diversity training during their association with the Extension.
• Uphold a respectful, professional communication style both oral and in written
• Provide technical assistance on family and consumer science topics and issues to strengthen families and individuals.
• Develop and cultivate external funding sources to enhance educational programming.
• Submit daily programmatic activities and success stories into E-DAL (Extension’s Daily Activity Log).
• Attend professional development opportunities.
• Work collaboratively with regional team and OSU County staff on joint projects.
• Participate in statewide teams.
• Work with state coordinators on regional county fair activities.
• Work collaboratively with Universities, state and local agencies within assigned region.
• Other responsibilities as required

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Science, food science and nutrition, human development, community health, family financial management, food safety, public health or closely related field.
• Knowledge in family and consumer sciences that includes a specialization in one or more of the following, food and nutrition; family resource management; human development and family relation; health, safety and wellness, clothing and textiles, housing and environment; home based micro business.
• Strong oral and written communication, leadership mentoring, and group process skills,
• Evidence of ability to work within a team environment.
• Exceptional, proven competency in interpersonal relationship skills, including the ability to effectively relate to and communicate with staff, faculty, elected officials, colleagues, and program participants from diverse cultural backgrounds, including individuals with limited English skills.
• Ability to interpret and enforce University policy and best practices in a variety of areas, including discrimination allegations, conflict of interest, volunteer management, and program liability.
• Knowledge and skill with computer technology in preparing reports, presentations, data analysis and internet applications.
• Knowledge of basic educational methods and the ability to effectively teach program specific material.
• Ability to work as a teleworker with minimal supervision, including prioritizing workloads and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge and understanding of the Extension organization, operation, philosophy, and commitment to diversity, equity, and intentional outreach to underrepresented community members
• Ability to plan and maintain a flexible work schedule, including evening and weekend work to meet time demands and/or special needs of program management.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle with required liability insurance, to be utilized for frequent travel.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience within specialty field highly desired.
• Teaching experience in informal and formal settings.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain diverse networks.

Special Instructions to Applicants

The Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Educator will work within the Northwest Region. The Educator will be a remote worker but will be expected to travel daily to provide programming and to meet with partners, including county and regional agencies, community economic development authorities, city governments, etc. These engagements are to pursue collaborations, promote programs, conduct programming, and interact with community members. Educators may also be requested to assist in other regions.

Position Category

Staff - Monthly (Exempt)

Budgeted Annual Salary

$45,000- $60,000