Description
Under general direction, administer and supervise the School of Agriculture (SOA) Cooperative Extension Service (CES) Agriculture and Natural Resources Program (ANR). Provide leadership in developing, planning, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating CES programs in Agriculture and Natural Resources. Directly supervise ANR program staff. Act as liaison with organizations and agencies in developing mutual educational programs. Work independently to apply scientific theories, principles, and methods to solve practical problems and shape public policy. Ensure compliance with policies and procedures of the U.S. Department of Agriculture NIFA, which provides funding for CES programs. Coordinate preparation of ANR annual reports, progress reports, plan of work, and other reports. Seek grant funds to enhance programs. Provide leadership and training to advisory groups, staff, and clientele. Write technical reports and other publications. Plan and conduct educational activities. Perform other related duties, as assigned. Direct Supervisory Responsibilities (Employees that report directly to you): Supervises 6 or more.
Indirect Supervisory Responsibilities (Employees that report to your direct reports): 2 – 10 employees.
1) The major responsibility of the job is to provide administrative leadership for and coordinate the development of effective Extension educational programs.
2) In close communication with the Associate Director of SOA CES: define goals and objectives; plan, develop, and execute Extension programs in agriculture and natural resources.
3) Develop and interpret policies and procedures. Develop and implement the annual plan of work for Agriculture and Natural Resources. Market Extension programs and their impacts
4) Select, train, and manage staff. Plan, schedule, and assign work. Coordinate staff development and training, conduct performance evaluations, and align staff work responsibilities. Approve timesheets and leave requests.
5) Write publications – fact sheets, pamphlets and articles – on various subjects related to Agriculture and Natural Resources to explain issues, practical methods and procedures to respective stakeholders and the public.
6) Manage budgets. Organize and allocate resources. Secure and manage external funding and resources to develop and enhance educational programming.
7) Provide expertise and technical advice to answer questions and solve complex problems related to Agriculture and Natural Resources.
8) Plan and organize major educational activities and special events to stimulate interest and provide training. Conduct training classes, workshops, seminars, and other educational activities. Make presentations at schools, fairs, clubs, and community group meetings. Make media appearances.
9) Utilize advisory groups, and committees to enable community involvement in programming; provide leadership and technical advice to groups in developing programs and activities. Serve as liaison with governmental agencies and NGOs.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
A minimum of a master’s degree in agriculture and seven years of experience in specialized area of agriculture. Five years of experience with cooperative extension work and three years of administrative and supervisory experience with demonstrated educational leadership in extension programming and management. Possess effective oral and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
A PhD degree in agriculture and five years of experience in specialized area of agriculture. Five years of experience with cooperative extension work and three years of administrative and supervisory experience with demonstrated educational leadership in extension programming and management. Possess effective oral and written communication skills.
Knowledge and experience with the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE), Renewable Resources Extension Act (RREA), and Master Gardener Programs.
Physical Demands
High-stress environment.
High pressure to meet deadlines.
Must be self-motivated.
Must have the ability to be always composed.
Must have the ability to sit for extended periods.
Travel within and outside the U.S. Virgin Islands is required.
Work environment: The noise level in the work environment will be moderate.
