Position Summary
This outreach specialist is a 60% part-time position located at the Trevor Nichols Research Center, Fennville, MI. The outreach specialist will serve the counties of Van Buren, Allegan, and Ottawa, but will also provide statewide assistance on occasion. The duties of the position include recruiting, providing leadership, assisting and training of socially disadvantaged and beginning Latino farmers in the following areas: a) IPM and nutrient management planning; b) necessary procedures to access programs administered by USDA (Rural Development, NRCS, NASS and FSA); c) Improvement of crop farming practices by incorporating IPM, GAPS, pesticide education, and nutrient management into their agriculture practices; c) Training on implementation of business management plans, marketing, and financial analysis; d) Collaboration with MSU Extension to provide crop diversification; and e) Collaboration with the MSU 4-H program to train the children of the Latino farmers, farm laborers, and interested Latinos with non-farming backgrounds to become successful farmers.

The successful candidate will interact and connect with Latino farmers; develop strong network with MSU, Telamon, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and USDA (NRCS, FSA and Rural Development), and the Blueberry industry, among others.

This is a 12-month fixed-term position, with annual renewal up to three years based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding.

Required Degree
Bachelors -Agriculture, Agribusiness or related field

Minimum Requirements
Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills in both English and Spanish are essential. The position requires proficient computer skills and knowledge of relevant technology to deliver educational programs, recordkeeping and reporting. Candidates must have the ability and social skills to work with Latino farmers, including significant understanding of the Latino culture. Willingness to work a flexible, non-traditional schedule including, and/or on weekends is necessary for this position. A personal vehicle with a driver's license in good standing is necessary; mileage will be reimbursed by the project.

Required Application Materials
Letter of application, curriculum vitae, statement of purpose, including statement regarding experience and/or philosophy on working with under-represented groups.

Special Instructions
Three letters of recommendation should be sent to Dr. David Mota-Sanchez at motasanc@msu.edu . Review of applications will begin on February 2, 2018 and continue until filled.

Advertised: Jan 22, 2018 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:


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