Title:                            Extension Educator, Youth Development, Volunteer Systems NE Region

Appointment:             Full-time, Assistant Extension Professor (9623), P&A

Office Location:         Extension Regional Office options of (Brainerd, Cloquet, Grand Rapids). Hybrid flexible work options available

Extension Area:         Department of Youth Development

Salary Range:             $59,000-$63,000 starting annual salary range; DOQ

Application deadline: October 14, 2024

ABOUT THIS POSITION

This regional youth development Extension educator position (regional educator) works with a team of Extension educators in the multi-county northeast region and across the state to provide educational leadership to the full range of 4-H Youth Development and adult learning programs. Regional educators lead programmatic efforts that result in high quality, culturally responsive learning environments where youth thrive. They use research-based methods to design, lead and manage programs; teach and facilitate learning; and contribute to the field through scholarship. Regional educators are on an academic promotion track. 

This regional Extension educator position will work directly with 4-H Extension educators and volunteers in the northeast region to build and strengthen the countyâ™s or tribal communityâ™s volunteer system. They will lead efforts to ensure that components central to a successful volunteer system (staff and organizational readiness, volunteer education and engagement, sustainability and review and analysis of systems for improvement) are developed and effectively operationalized within the region. 

This position will work with a state volunteer systems function team to ensure adults working with and on behalf of young people create the conditions for high quality, culturally responsive learning environments. They will ensure that current 4â‘H volunteers and program delivery partners are equipped to effectively engage and support new and historically underserved youth and families. They will develop and implement a plan that mobilizes staff, volunteers and partners to expand the Minnesota 4â‘H volunteer base that is reflective of the diversity in our communities and includes a range of volunteer opportunities. 

This position will report to the northeast Extension Program Leader. 

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, deliver and evaluate evidence-based educational programs to identify, recruit, train, and retain volunteers, using program models that are accessible to and inclusive of underserved audiences. 
• Lead the program development process with 4-H Extension educators to assess program needs and priorities through engagement with current and prospective volunteers and community partners, including those who have been underrepresented in our program. 
• Design, develop, deliver and evaluate a volunteer training plan that includes the delivery of volunteer training sessions in local and regional programs, including annual volunteer training.
• Develop, evaluate and improve upon educational resources and tools that support an effective volunteer system. 
• Develop and deliver volunteerism training for Minnesota youth workers.
• Work with 4-H Extension educators to strengthen local volunteer systems with emphasis on volunteer growth, retention, access and equity. 
• Serve as subject matter expert to local 4-H Extension educators in volunteer systems and other areas as needed.
• Make decisions on the consideration and acceptance of volunteer applicants.
• Communicate volunteer opportunities and resulting impacts to stakeholders.
• Ensure volunteer compliance with the Safety of Minors policy and Code of Conduct.
• Facilitate problem-solving processes for responding and bringing resolution to questions, concerns, and code of conduct issues. 
• Collaborate with the regional team to support the delivery of club, camp, and showcase experiences.

BENEFITS/APPOINTMENT

1. Extension Educator positions have annual University academic professional appointments and Extension academic rank. The appointment is reviewed for renewal annually, with continuation dependent on performance, results, availability of funds, and program needs.
2. Promotion in Extension academic rank is required within six years and is contingent upon accomplishments as an Extension Educator.
3. University of Minnesota appointment and benefits.  Benefits package available https://hr.umn.edu/Jobs/Applicant-Center/About-Working-U/Benefits-Summaries-Prospective-Employees 
4. Reimbursement for travel and subsistence is available in accordance with University policy. 
5. Estimated starting salary range is $59,000-63,000 annually. Salary commensurate with education and experience.

Required Qualifications:

• Masterâ™s degree at time of appointment.
• At least two years of post-bachelors degree professional experience in youth development programs, public administration, volunteer administration or community-based or non-profit organizations. 
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and access.
• Demonstrated ability to strengthen and grow programs in partnership with individuals, organizations, and communities representing new, diverse, and underserved audiences.
• Demonstrated effective leadership of volunteer systems. 
• Demonstrated ability in leading teams through program development, implementation, and evaluation processes
• Demonstrated skills addressing conflict.   
• Demonstrated expertise in written communication 
• Strong oral communication skills. 

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver's license and own means of transportation with required liability insurance. 
• Travel (in-state and national) may be necessary to perform the responsibilities of this position. This person may be expected to use a personal vehicle and have appropriate insurance. Mileage and sustenance reimbursement provided according to University policies.
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including occasional evening or weekend work.
• Must be able to travel within the designated communities and provide in-person programming
• Must have reliable internet if/when working outside of assigned office location.
• Reliable cell phone that can be used, as needed, for work purposes. Reimbursement will not be provided.
• Ability to work on a computer for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to bend, reach, twist, and lift or carry 10 pounds frequently and 30 pounds occasionally.
• This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masterâ™s degree in a field applicable to youth development, e.g., youth development, human development, adult development, or community development
• Course work in child and adolescent development, educational program design, experiential learning, volunteer administration, non-profit leadership, community development/engagement, ethnic studies, or adult education
• Demonstrated success in developing community, agency, business and corporate partnerships to grow programs
• Demonstrated experience in using data-driven approaches in leading program design, development, implementation, and reporting
• Skills/abilities in the use of technology for communication, teaching and planning

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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