Extension Field Specialist I, 4-H Shooting Sports and Outdoor Education

South Dakota State University is seeking an Extension Field Specialist I, 4-H Shooting Sports and Outdoor Education to provide strong statewide leadership and support youth education and engagement across the state, by delivering information, resources, and programming while building relationships with stakeholder groups to support the vision of SDSU Extension and 4-H. This position is located in one of the SDSU Extension Regional Centers in Rapid City, Winner, Lemmon, Pierre, Aberdeen, Watertown, Sioux Falls or Mitchell or on the SDSU campus in Brookings. This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide statewide leadership in delivering informal education in shooting sports and outdoor education programming.
• Develop and disseminate educational resources and activities that support youth learning in 4-H shooting sports, outdoor education, and related topics.
• Identify and develop funding opportunities to support new or enhanced programming that aligns with current and future workforce and educational needs.
• Plan, design, implement, market, and evaluate programs to assess impact and provide documentable results.
• Develop relationships with state-level stakeholders and/or groups to identify emerging needs and opportunities for youth. Provide specialized subject matter support to stakeholders.
• Recruit, utilize, and organize volunteers into productive groups to enhance educational outreach. Identify potential industry leaders and helps develop their capacity to help accomplish educational and industry goals.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Master’s Degree from an accredited university or college, academic preparation and demonstrated scholarly mastery in a discipline relevant to outdoor education, natural resource management, wildlife management, agricultural education, youth development, or other related fields by first day of employment. 1 year to 3 years of related experience in teaching shooting sports, hunting skills, outdoor education, and/or other relevant topics. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with varied audiences. Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work as a team member. Demonstrated use of technology in managing or delivering educational programs. Demonstrated ability or potential to plan, implement, and evaluate educational materials and direct effective programs. Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one with 30 days of hire, and willingness and ability to travel.

Preferred Qualifications: Previous Extension experience. Experience with 4-H or FFA educational events and contests. Ability to engage youth in non-formal educational settings. Experience developing and delivering educational programs and/or curricula for youth. Demonstrated leadership and teamwork with stakeholders.