Senior Extension Associate Horticulture
Kentucky State University

Job Info

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TITLE: Senior Extension Associate-Horticulture (Controlled Environment Growing) LOCATION: West Louisville Extension Office DEPARTMENT: Community Resource Development (CRD) REPORTS TO: Program Leader in Community Resource Development  CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time  EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt   JOB SUMMARY:   The Extension Associate in Horticulture for Container Farming will be responsible for providing expertise and support to individuals, organizations, and communities interested in implementing and optimizing container farming practices. This role involves offering guidance, conducting research, delivering educational programs, and promoting sustainable and efficient container farming techniques. The Extension Horticulturist will serve as a valuable resource to enhance productivity, improve crop quality, and address challenges related to container farming.   ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:   

Lead Learning Experiences and Workshops

Provide expert advice and guidance to individuals, organizations, and communities interested in container farming. 

Conduct site visits and assessments to evaluate existing container farming systems and provide recommendations for improvement. 

Assist in the planning, design, and setup of container farms, considering factors such as crop selection, environmental conditions, and resource management. 

Create or research best practices into educational materials that extension staff may implement or utilize for programming. 

Develop and deliver educational programs, workshops, and training sessions on container farming techniques, best practices, and crop management. 

Create educational materials, including manuals, guides, and online resources, to support the learning and development of container farmers. 

Collaborate with educational institutions, agricultural organizations, and community groups to promote container farming education and awareness. 

Stay updated with the latest advancements in container farming technologies, equipment, and crop varieties. 

Conduct research and experiments to evaluate the performance and productivity of different crops in container farming systems. 

Collaborate with research institutions and participate in industry conferences to contribute to the advancement of container farming knowledge. 

Identify and address challenges and issues faced by container farmers, such as pest management, nutrient deficiencies, and crop diseases. 

Provide recommendations and solutions to overcome challenges, optimize crop yields, and ensure the long-term success of container farming operations. 

Stay accessible and responsive to inquiries and requests for assistance from container farmers. 

Build and maintain relationships with container farming professionals, agricultural experts, and industry stakeholders to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. 

Participate in relevant professional associations, conferences, and workshops to expand professional networks and stay informed about industry trends.

  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:   

Extensive knowledge of horticulture.

Ability to communicate effectively, orally, and in writing.

Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

Records maintenance skills.

Strong planning and organizational skills.

Ability to plan and teach educational programs.

Ability to use new technologies in order to promote programs and reach new audiences.

Ability to work well in teams.

Ability and understanding of the Land Grant mission and vision, University policies, procedures and objectives in planning and conducting Extension programs.  

Knowledge of federal and state agricultural agencies.

  SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:  

This position does not have supervisory responsibility. 

  WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:   

Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment. 

No or very limited physical effort required.

No or very limited exposure to physical risk.

   OTHER DUTIES:   

The position will conduct other duties as required.

  QUALIFICATIONS:   

Master's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field. 

Three to Five years of related work experience

Proven experience in container farming or greenhouse production. 

In-depth knowledge of horticultural practices, plant physiology, and crop management techniques. 

Familiarity with sustainable agriculture principles and environmental stewardship. 

Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Ability to facilitate learning among diverse audiences  

Ability to conduct research, analyze data, and present findings in a clear and concise manner.

Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities. 

Demonstrated passion for sustainable agriculture and urban farming practices.

  Licensing and Certifications: NA      ACKNOWLEDGMENT  I have received, reviewed and fully understand the job description for ____________________. I further understand that I am responsible for the satisfactory execution of the essential functions described therein, under any and all conditions as described.   Employee Name __________________________________________ Date _____________________                                                                          (printed name)   Employee Signature _________________________________________________   KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform. 

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