Agent, Extension Specialist, Forest Management - University of Maryland

Responsibilities:

• Develop a robust outreach program with emphasis on both traditional and small acreage forestry that utilizes western science and traditional knowledge where appropriate.
• Manage existing extension forestry programs such as: Branching Out Forest Stewardship Newsletter, Woods In Your Backyard, and Maryland Woodland Stewards.
• Conduct surveys as needed to determine needs of clientele.
• Collaborate with the partners, networks and interested parties on shared forest management objectives and priorities to expand and implement Extension programs.
• Contribute to Master Gardener, Master Naturalist and Watershed Stewards programs.
• Develop and disseminate educational resources, such as fact sheets, bulletins, newsletters, web-based resources, videos and mass and social media as appropriate for diverse audiences.
• Providing support statewide to county Extension faculty and state forestry agency personnel.
• Procure extramural funding sources to support Extension and applied research activities.
• Design and conduct applied research projects as necessary and within reason to address forest management issues.

Salary & Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience: Master’s Base starting at: $61,035, PhD’s Base starting at: $72,896; The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package. For more information regarding employee benefits visit: https://uhr.umd.edu/benefits/

Applications:

All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/101451. A complete application packet includes a letter of application, a current (signed) curriculum vitae, copies of transcripts (official transcripts will be required if offered the position), and three (3) professional references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check and University of Maryland Background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.

• Posting Date:11/04/2022

Qualifications:

Required-

• Bachelor of Science in forestry or related natural resource management.
• Master’s degree in forestry or closely related field.
• Demonstrated ability to teach effectively in non-formal settings.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, including effective use of electronic and printed media.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and to manage competing time demands.
• Self-motivated person willing to set objectives, seek opportunities, provide leadership, and demonstrate success.
• Knowledge of the Land Grant mission and the role of Extension in Maryland.
• Demonstrated ability to use common computer software including proficiency with information technology.
• Evidence of capacity to build UME Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Respect capacity through the Extension program model.
• Personal transportation and valid driver’s license Must be willing to travel statewide.
• Flexible work schedule for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and needs.
• This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check and University of Maryland Background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.

Preferred-

• PhD preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of work experience in forest management discipline.
• Applied knowledge in silviculture, forest stewardship planning and practices, land use planning, forest tax issues, or other related natural resource management field
• Demonstrated experience in Extension, outreach or service related to forest management.
• Demonstrated ability in garnering grants and private funding to enhance research and outreach programming.
• Evidence of scholarship in applied research, Extension and/or outreach.
• Experience working with diverse audiences at all socioeconomic levels and demographic backgrounds.

Physical Demands of the Position:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• This position frequently presents information through vocal and written communication to individuals of various ages, socio-economic, and educational backgrounds.
• A routine part of this position's responsibilities would be to transport materials to and from teaching/event locations, including loading and unloading the vehicle. The employee will frequently lift and/or move items weighing up to 30 pounds. Set-up and tear-down of displays, tables, and chairs would be necessary at many teaching sites.
• Team driven, office environment of professional character, competence, and collaboration. Deadline driven in terms of program planning and reporting. This position requires the employee to work outdoors at programs and events. This may occur during very hot and/or inclement weather.
• Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data and presentations.