University of Connecticut, Department of Extension is seeking an Extension Vegetable Specialist to work from its Tolland County Extension Center in Vernon, CT. This statewide position will develop and conduct an Extension education and research program that meets critical needs and builds the knowledge base in vegetable crop production and practices. Work with Extension's agriculture team in establishing an innovative multi-disciplinary program using the latest research-based and experiential learning-based information related to all facets of developing, implementing, and evaluating vegetable programs for agricultural producers. Serve as a source of support for Good Agricultural Practices in food safety and security of vegetable crop production. Conduct yearly All-America vegetable trials. Faculty member will appraise clientele problems and needs for Extension programs. Clientele include farmers, growers, horticulturists, professional service providers, public and private land use decision-makers, Extension advisors, private organizations, and public agencies. Extend the reach of UConn Extension by integrating distance technology into program delivery through computer applications, web pages, electronic communications, multimedia technologies, and other emerging technologies. The successful candidate will be expected to develop an extramurally-funded education and research program and to develop a diverse portfolio of educational materials for Extension clients and scholarly materials for professional peers. To fulfill the Extension mission, the successful candidate will perform other appropriate duties as needed or assigned. For more information on UConn Extension go to http://www.extension.uconn.edu/

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

An earned master's degree in plant science, plant pathology, entomology, or a related field. Demonstrated success teaching in non-formal as well as formal settings. Applicants must have a significant and demonstrated experience in the field of vegetable production or IPM. Applicants must possess strong skills in leadership, written and verbal communication, interpersonal relations, and computer literacy with knowledge of Microsoft Office. Applicants must be self-starters and have the ability to work effectively with minimum supervision both independently and as a team member. In addition, the incumbent in this position must have the ability to work flexible hours including occasional nights and weekends and must have demonstrated ability and willingness to travel statewide to meet clients and occasionally travel in New England for regional activities. Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel is allowed for personal vehicle use upon proof of insurability and valid driver's license. The person in this position must be able to work in outdoor field and farm conditions and may find it necessary lift at least 50 pounds.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Ph.D. in plant sciences, plant pathology, entomology or a closely related field. Proven experience in grantsmanship and/or fund raising. Demonstrated familiarity with Extension and the land-grant university system. Experience in increasing diversity in educational program delivery and participation.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is an 11-month per year, non-tenure track Extension educator (Assistant or Associate rank) position within the Dept of Extension, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut. This is an eleven month appointment. The position rank/level will be based on successful candidates experience and training.

This is a full-time position with a benefits package. For more information on benefits, go to: http://www.hr.uconn.edu/benefits/index.html . Mileage allowance is provided. Starting salary for this position will be commensurate with training and experience.

TO APPLY

Select "Apply" and submit the following materials via Academic Jobs Online. Please submit a cover letter, statement of your vision for the Extension Vegetable Specialist position (not to exceed two pages), and curriculum vitae. Additionally, please follow the instructions in Academic Jobs Online to direct three reference writers to submit letters of reference on your behalf. Screening will begin immediately. Preference will be given to candidates who apply by November 22nd. Position will remain open until filled

Employment of the successful candidate will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check. (Search # 2017620)

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp .

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University's teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn's ranking as one of the nation's top research universities. UConn's faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.



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