Farm Business Management Specialist – Cornell Cooperative Extension

Farm Business Management Specialist – Cornell Cooperative Extension

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Agriculture from an accredited institution with a major in Animal Science, Agricultural Economics or closely associated fields.
• 2+ years of relevant work experience in Agribusiness, Livestock, Dairy and/or Field Crops Production, Cooperative Extension, or closely related fields.
• Experience in conducting, interpreting, evaluating and communicating the results of applied research.
• Knowledge of the philosophy, objectives and operation of an informal education system such as Cornell Cooperative Extension.
• Demonstrated knowledge of principles, theory, and research in the economics of commercial production and business management.
• Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work with diverse audiences in group and one-on-one settings, working effectively with advisory boards and committees, community and funding partners.
• Proven organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to define, conduct and interpret applied research and demonstration projects.
• Successful experience obtaining new funding, including grants and industry support.
• Strong leadership and teamwork skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Fundamental competence utilizing current technology as a management and program delivery tool (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, Internet, and Social Media).
• Appreciation of Agriculture as a business and as a lifestyle.
• Creativity, energy, motivation, and positive enthusiasm.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as essential job functions require.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.

Responsibilities

• Planning and implementing educational programs utilizing various methods, including direct teaching through group experiences, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, use of the internet, and distance learning.
• Initiating and conducting field demonstrations and in-depth applied research projects appropriate to the needs of the economics of commercial production and livestock production.
• Preparing quarterly reports, impact statements, and yearly success stories on program progress and accomplishments.
• Participating in regional, statewide, and national work groups related to the work of Cornell University, Cooperative Extension, and the Commercial Dairy, Field Crops and Livestock Industries.
• Individually and collaboratively explore and pursue new and additional funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities.
• Analyzing and evaluating major program efforts with the input of all program partners and making recommendations for enhancing these efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework in Animal and Crop Sciences, Marketing, Labor Management, Adult Education, and Communications.
• 5+ years of relevant work experience.
• Knowledge and experience in current and emerging issues and production practices of dairy, field crops, and livestock farm businesses.