JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
Penn State Cooperative Extension is seeking an Extension Educator to provide commercial grape growers/producers with the knowledge and educational resources necessary to assess production and management practices that will enhance their profitability and sustain the growth of the grape and wine industry in the Lake Erie Region of New York and Pennsylvania. This is joint program between Cornell and Penn State.
The Extension Educator will provide leadership for planning, implementing and evaluating educational programs that address producer identified needs and opportunities. Emphasis is on business management for commercial growers and small winery operations. This program will include but not be limited to:
1) record keeping and business analysis;
2) economics of production practices;
3) financial management, forms of business organization and taxation;
4) labor management; and
5) marketing.
The Extension Educator will also:
Provide producers and industry with a framework to analyze production and management alternatives and to maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices, new varieties, value added products, alternative crops and consumer market demands, etc. The focus will be on business planning and development for businesses that have emphases in production agriculture;
Provide leadership in the development of educational materials for use by potential wine grape growers and/or winery operators in developing and implementing a business plan; and
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.
Qualifications:
This position will be filled as a level 3 or 4, depending upon the successful candidate's competencies, education, and experience. Typical requirements for a level 2 includes a Master’s Degree or higher plus 2 years or more of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Additional experience and/or education and competencies are required for higher level jobs. Preference will be given to candidates who have a concentration in Business Administration or a closely related field. Coursework in labor management, marketing, database management, agriculture economics, education and communication is desired. Two years relevant experience in Cooperative Extension, Agribusiness, Grape Production, Adult Education or closely related field is required. Five years of relevant experience and knowledge and/or experience in current and emerging Grape and Wine Production and Marketing practices is desired. Salary and educator rank will be commensurate with education, training and experience.
This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusive excellence that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusive excellence as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applications without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State Covid-19 Vaccination or Testing Requirements
Penn State is committed to the health of our local and global communities. As a condition of employment, all employees are required to comply with COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements. Click on Penn State Covid-19 Vaccination or Testing Requirements to learn about the requirements as well as general COVID-19 information at Penn State.
